Dejah Clark, a veteran of the United States Navy, has dedicated her life to serving others, both in uniform and at home as a mother of three. Born in Houston, Texas, Dejah chose to serve in honor of her late brother, who had planned to join the military before his life was tragically cut short. She entered the Navy as a medical professional and went on to serve at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, aboard the USS John S. McCain, and at Naval Medical Center San Diego.
Throughout her service, Dejah gained extensive medical experience across multiple specialties, including dermatology, labor and delivery, acute care, infectious disease, and phlebotomy. She assisted in surgical procedures, administered vaccinations, and responded to numerous emergencies. Her dedication earned her a meritorious promotion, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and recognition as Junior Sailor of the Quarter, among many other commendations.
Today, Dejah is a devoted wife and stay-at-home mother raising three children under the age of three. However, her service has come at a cost. She now lives with several service-connected conditions, including sciatica, lumbosacral strain, and cervicalgia. These conditions cause chronic pain, limited mobility, and frequent numbness and weakness in her legs, making everyday tasks not only difficult, but dangerous.
Simple moments that many take for granted, like bathing her children or moving safely through her home, have become overwhelming challenges. Her legs can unexpectedly give out, placing her at a high risk of falling, especially in the bathroom where surfaces are often wet and slippery. These limitations have also taken a toll on her mental health, as she navigates the frustration of wanting to be fully present for her children while managing daily pain.
Dejah’s previous bathroom setup was unsafe and not designed to accommodate her physical needs. The step into the shower and lack of proper support increase her risk of injury, making it difficult for her to maintain independence and safely care for herself and her children.
Project Scope:
Homes for Veterans is stepping in to transform Dejah’s bathroom into a safer, more accessible space by:
Installing a walk-in, step-free shower
Adding secure grab bars for stability
Improving the layout to reduce fall risk
Creating a more open and functional space for ease of movement
This renovation will provide Dejah with the safety, independence, and peace of mind she deserves. It will allow her to complete daily routines with greater confidence, reduce the risk of injury, and ease the physical and emotional strain she carries.
Most importantly, it will allow her to focus on what matters most, being present for her children and enjoying the life she fought to protect.
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After
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