Operation TBI Freedom News/Updates (Q1 FY-26)
Q1 FY-26’s Highlights OPERATION TBI FREEDOM NEWS/UPDATES | Q1 FY26 Upcoming Events
Staff
See Our Events Tab at: https://craighospital.org/operationtbi-freedom/otf-events
Current Number Of Vets Assigned:
Active: 86 Alumni: 229 Total: 315 Clients
Team Spirit As the year winds down, the Operation TBI Freedom staff took a moment to slow the pace, take a breather, and enjoy the holiday season together. With full calendars and steady demands throughout the year, this time to pause, reconnect, and share a few laughs was both welcome and well deserved. These moments allow us to recharge, reflect, and appreciate one another, strengthening the bonds that carry us forward as we continue serving veterans, service members, and their families. It is a simple but important reminder that caring for one another enables us to better serve those we support. As we head into the new year, we are so refreshed, grateful, and ready to continue the work with renewed energy and purpose!
Operation TBI Freedom News/Updates (Q1 FY-26)
Past Quarter's Highlight Honoring Service and Community on Veterans Day
Operation TBI Freedom had the honor of participating in the In Their Honor Veterans Day Parade, proudly standing alongside veterans, families, caregivers, and community partners to recognize the service, sacrifice, and resilience of those who have worn our nation’s uniform. As an organization made up of veterans serving veterans, this day held special meaning for our team. We were not just honoring others; we were standing shoulder to shoulder with our own community. The streets of Colorado Springs were filled with gratitude, patriotism, and shared respect as generations of service were recognized. Moments like this reinforce why connection and visibility matter. Veterans deserve to be seen, celebrated, and supported not just on Veterans Day, but every day. We are grateful to be part of a community that shows up, remembers, and continues to stand with those who have given so much in service to our country. For our team, the parade was also a reminder of the shared bond that connects veterans long after they take off their uniforms. That sense of camaraderie, purpose, and commitment to one another is at the heart of Operation TBI Freedom. It continues to guide our work in supporting veterans and their families throughout the year.
Operation TBI Freedom News/Updates (Q1 FY-26)
Past Quarter's Highlight Cont.
Spooky Smiles and Community Connections at Fort Carson, CO
Operation TBI Freedom had an absolute blast participating in the Trunk or Treat event with our incredible partners at the 627th Hospital Center on Fort Carson, Colorado. From creative costumes and decorated trunks to smiling kids and nonstop laughter, the evening was filled with energy, connection, and plenty of Halloween fun. Events like this highlight the importance of building community and supporting military families beyond the clinical setting. Being present, sharing joy, and creating positive memories together are just as meaningful as the services we provide. We are grateful for the continued partnership with the 627th Hospital Center and look forward to many more opportunities to connect, celebrate, and serve together.
Operation TBI Freedom News/Updates (Q1 FY-26)
Peer Support Groups:
Peer Support That Heals: A Look Back at This Quarter’s TBI Peer Groups This quarter, Operation TBI Freedom’s peer support groups continued to provide consistent, trusted support for veterans and service members living with traumatic brain injury. Led by Military Support Specialist John Lenz, these groups remain a vital connection point where participants feel understood, supported, and heard without the need to explain the realities of living with TBI. Under John’s steady leadership, the groups foster open, honest dialogue, enabling participants to share both progress and challenges in a space grounded in respect and mutual understanding. The focus remains on empowerment, connection, and practical support, creating an environment many participants describe as unlike any other support they receive. In addition, John facilitated ongoing TBI Warrior Real Talk sessions, offering veterans a candid forum to discuss the day-to-day impact of brain injury. Through shared experiences, practical coping strategies, and peer-to-peer engagement, these sessions continue to strengthen community, build confidence, and reinforce hope. Operation TBI Freedom is proud of the dedication, consistency, and compassion John brings to this critical component of our mission and the positive impact it continues to have.
Operation TBI Freedom News/Updates (Q1 FY-26)
TBI Education Classes:
Knowledge is Power: TBI Education at Operation TBI Freedom This quarter, Operation TBI Freedom continued to prioritize education through TBI-focused learning sessions for veterans and service members. Military Support Specialist Tim Patrick led the planning, coordination, and facilitation of these sessions, ensuring each class was accessible, relevant, and impactful. As part of this effort, Tim coordinated with Kirsten Belaire, LPC, from Mt. Carmel Behavioral Health to provide education on traumatic brain injury and its impact on behavioral health. These sessions offered participants a deeper understanding of how TBI can affect memory, mood, and day-to-day functioning. For many veterans and service members, TBI education serves as a critical turning point. Gaining insight into their symptoms helps reduce frustration, increase self-awareness, and build confidence. The sessions also support improved communication with loved ones and care providers, reinforcing Operation TBI Freedom’s commitment to informed, empowered care.
Operation TBI Freedom News/Updates (Q1 FY-26)
Recreational Outings
Empowering Through Recreation: Enhancing Lives of Veterans and Service Members with TBI
This quarter, Operation TBI Freedom continued to emphasize participation as a core part of supporting veterans and service members living with TBI and PTSD. While these are medical conditions, we recognize that meaningful progress often comes through social solutions that promote connection, engagement, and purpose beyond traditional clinical care. Our recreational and therapeutic outings encouraged movement, confidence, and peer connection while reducing isolation. A highlight of this quarter was the addition of our newest outing, rock climbing, which challenged participants both physically and mentally in a supportive group setting. These opportunities are made possible through the dedication of staff like Military Support Specialist Renee Miller and reinforce our belief that community and shared experience are essential components of healing.
Operation TBI Freedom News/Updates (Q1 FY-26)
MSS of the Quarter: ***John Lenz***
Please congratulate John Lenz on being selected as Operation TBI Freedom’s Military Support Specialist (MSS) of the Quarter! This quarter, John Lenz continues to set the standard for what excellence looks like within Operation TBI Freedom. With more than 15 years of experience, John brings a deep passion for teaching and training, particularly when it comes to standardizing best practices across the Military Support Specialist team. His commitment to consistency, quality, and professional development has strengthened how our team delivers care and support to veterans statewide. John models the hands-on approach that defines an exceptional MSS. He meets veterans where they are, regardless of location within the state of Colorado, often walking alongside clients to their local VA to help secure benefits solutions or access healthcare services. His willingness to be present, guide, and advocate in real time reflects a level of dedication that goes far beyond expectations. In addition to his case management work, John continues to facilitate TBI peer support groups, creating trusted spaces where veterans can connect and heal through shared experience. Simply put, if Operation TBI Freedom could build an MSS in a lab, hands down, it would be John Lenz! He is performing at a level achieved by very few, and none of it goes unnoticed. His leadership, passion, and consistency embody the very best of Operation TBI Freedom and make him exceptionally deserving of MSS of the Quarter recognition.
Operation TBI Freedom News/Updates (Q1 FY-26)
OTF’s Vet of the Quarter: SPC Michael Jackson (Nominated by MSS John Lenz)
Michael Jackson, U.S. Army (Field Artillery), is a combat veteran of Afghanistan (2011–2012) who has been actively engaged with Operation TBI Freedom since September 9, 2024. From the outset, Michael has approached his recovery with seriousness and intent, demonstrating strong accountability, responsiveness, and a genuine commitment to his comprehensive care plan. Michael consistently participates in Operation TBI Freedom offerings, understanding that engagement and follow-through are critical to long-term progress. He has participated in TBI Education classes, Peer Support Groups, and a wide range of social support outings, including Art, Blacksmithing, Rock Climbing, and Equine-Assisted Learning, building meaningful connections with fellow veterans. Through his persistent efforts, Michael achieved an increase in his VA disabilities, allowing him maximum access to care through the VA. He has also successfully connected with specialized support resources, engaged in appropriate systems of care, and consistently met his community reintegration goals through accountability and active participation, contributing to an improved quality of life. Despite any challenges, Michael continues to push forward with resilience, discipline, and purpose. His determination, humility, and warrior spirit reflect the very best of what Operation TBI Freedom represents, making him a truly deserving Veteran of the Quarter. Thank you, Specialist Michael Jackson, for your service and dedication to making a difference!
Operation TBI Freedom News/Updates (Q1 FY-26)
Operation TBI Freedom's Fallen Heroes Operation TBI Freedom mourns the loss of one of our own, Pierre Xavier “X” Ross, who passed away on November 25 at the age of 65. Pierre was unforgettable. His larger-than-life smile, infectious laughter, and boundless love for people and adventure left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Pierre retired as a Chief Petty Officer after 20 years of service. His commitment to service never stopped. He remained deeply involved in the veteran community through the VFW, American Legion, Honor Guard, and countless acts of volunteerism. At Operation TBI Freedom, Pierre embodied camaraderie, encouragement, and the belief that veterans are never meant to walk alone. Pierre lived life at full throttle. Whether skydiving, whitewater rafting, Jeeping, hiking, or simply sharing a story and a laugh, he approached each day with joy and curiosity. He never met a stranger he couldn’t chat with and had a gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. Above all, Pierre loved fiercely. He was a devoted husband to Lynn, a proud father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a cherished “bonus dad,” uncle, and friend. His family and friends were his pride, his joy, and his greatest adventure. Pierre leaves behind a community better for having known him and an Operation TBI Freedom family forever grateful for his presence. Though he has journeyed on, his laughter, kindness, and adventurous spirit will continue to inspire us to live boldly, love deeply, and never pass up the next adventure. Until Valhalla, friend, fair winds and following seas, X. You will be dearly missed by all.
Operation TBI Freedom News/Updates (Q1 FY-26)
Operation TBI Freedom's Fallen Heroes In Honor of Operation TBI Freedom’s Fallen Hero: Kenneth Leonard “Pickleball Ken” Marquardt
Operation TBI Freedom honors the life and legacy of Kenneth Leonard “Pickleball Ken” Marquardt, who passed away on November 20, 2025. A driving force behind pickleball’s meteoric rise in the Denver metropolitan area, Ken used his passion for the sport to champion a far greater cause supporting veterans living with traumatic brain injury. As a brain injury survivor, Ken had a deeply personal understanding of invisible injuries. After being introduced to Operation TBI Freedom, a donor-funded program of Craig Hospital in Colorado Springs, he committed himself fully to its mission of helping veterans navigate civilian life through connection, support, and access to critical resources. “It’s difficult to understand traumatic brain injury if you haven’t experienced it,” Ken once said. “I have a unique understanding of the challenges that these brave service members face.” Living that truth, Ken galvanized his pickleball community and founded the Pickleball for Heroes Tournament in 2015. Over the years, this effort raised nearly $400,000 in support of Operation TBI Freedom and the veterans we serve. On behalf of Operation TBI Freedom and the veterans we serve, we extend our deepest condolences to Sharon, Dan, Darren, and the entire Marquardt family. Ken was far more than “Pickleball Ken.” He was a trusted friend, a connector, and a steadfast advocate for veterans with brain injury. His kindness, humility, and belief in community created spaces where veterans found joy, confidence, and belonging. We are profoundly grateful for Ken’s compassion and unwavering commitment to veterans and their families. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and always honored by Operation TBI Freedom and the veteran community.
Operation TBI Freedom News/Updates (Q1 FY-26)
Gratitude and Unity: Closing Another Successful Chapter at Operation TBI Freedom As we close the chapter on another successful quarter here at Operation TBI Freedom, we find ourselves overwhelmed with gratitude for the unwavering support from our private donors and the invaluable contributions from our esteemed community partners. Together, we stand as a beacon of hope and healing for our veterans, service members, and their families who are navigating the challenges of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). We extend our sincerest appreciation to our private donors for your continued generosity. Your support fuels our mission and enables us to provide essential services, resources, and programs to those who have sacrificed so much for our nation. Your commitment to our cause strengthens our resolve and amplifies our impact, ensuring that no TBI-affected veteran or service member is left behind. Additionally, we are immensely grateful for the collaboration and camaraderie of our close community partners. Your dedication and passion for serving our military community enrich our programs and enhance our quality of care. Together, we form a formidable alliance in the joint fight to support and empower those living with TBI, fostering a network of compassion and resilience that transcends boundaries. As we bid farewell to this quarter's newsletter, we eagerly anticipate the unfolding chapters of our journey ahead. To our supporters, partners, and beneficiaries, we extend our heartfelt thanks and encourage you to stay tuned for more updates, stories of inspiration, and opportunities to make a difference in the lives of our heroes. Until next quarter, let us continue to stand together, united in our mission to honor, heal, and empower those who have served. Together, we can make a profound and lasting impact on the lives of our veterans, service members, and their families. With gratitude and determination, The Operation TBI Freedom Team