A new mission after service

While serving as a combat medic in the Army, Yusuf Henriques did tours in Korea, Germany and Bosnia before the severe wear and tear on his body—including knee injuries from jumping out of an aircraft, exposure to toxins and a traumatic brain injury (TBI)—forced him out of the job he loved and into civilian life.

After leaving the military, he needed help filing his claims—a process made even more challenging by his TBI. Fortunately, DAV was there to help. 

“They fought for me the same way I had fought for our country,” he said.

In addition to help from DAV, Yusuf has also relied on the constant support of his caregiver and fiancée, Angel. She has used DAV caregiver resources to better understand the struggles Yusuf is facing and to bridge the gaps that can happen when supporting someone who has experienced trauma. 

“What I appreciate about DAV is that they provide a community that leans in and helps caregivers recognize signs of post-traumatic stress and other challenges veterans face,” Angel said. “By understanding the people we care about, we can better show up for them.”

Despite the setbacks they’ve faced, Yusuf and Angel have never stopped chasing their dreams. Together, they have built IndyGeneUS Bio, a genomics company working to improve health equity by increasing representation of women and racial minorities in clinical trials. 

“DAV has helped me on this journey of starting and growing my own business by providing entrepreneurship education and mentorship through DAV Patriot Boot Camp,” Yusuf said.

Their journey hasn’t always been easy, but with support from one another and from DAV, they continue moving forward with purpose. To hear the rest of Yusuf and Angel’s story and how DAV continues to play an important role, click below.