Today we’d like to introduce you to Gary Reagan.
Hi Gary, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I am a former US Army Combat Medic, combat veteran, and currently a full-time Firefighter/Paramedic.
Many of us who have served our country or community struggle with mental health and PTSD. I have lost far too many friends to suicide, addiction, or many other negative ways to deal with trauma. This inspired me to start Scars & Stripes 1776 and build a community that supports mental health and wellness for Veterans and First Responders.
The traditional ways of healing from trauma were not working for me. That led me to start searching for something that would start to heal my physical and emotional scars. For me, that was getting back into racing motocross. I grew up racing off and on for 17 years, and then took a 14-year break due to family and career. Getting back into the sport has helped me physically and mentally.
This motivated me to help others find non-traditional ways of healing.
Most who have served are missing the community, adrenaline, and sense of purpose. I couldn’t find it, so I created it with Scars & Stripes. Together with fellow Veterans and First Responders we host mental health events, ride days, and build bikes for other veterans to get back out riding.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As a full-time firefighter and father of three beautiful girls, it is a struggle to find the time to start and grow this charity. I initially started as a clothing brand to raise awareness for our cause but quickly realized we needed to do more.
That is what led us to founding the charity. As much work as it is, none of it feels like work. I truly feel everything I have been through in life has led me to this place. We are helping the Veteran and First Responder community not only survive but thrive.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Scars and Stripes 1776 is a compassionate 501c3 charity founded by Veterans and First Responders who understand the sacrifices made in the line of duty. Our organization is dedicated to supporting and uplifting those who serve our country and communities. We foster a supportive environment that acknowledges the physical and mental toll of a life devoted to service, aiming to erase the stigma around mental health.
At Scars and Stripes 1776, we recognize the unique challenges faced by Military personnel, Police, Firefighters, EMS, Corrections officers, Nurses, and 911 Dispatchers. Our mission is to unite this diverse community, providing avenues for support that cater to individual needs, as standard approaches might not resonate with everyone.
We are committed to preventing the loss of more lives to suicide among our brave Veterans and First Responders than those lost in the line of duty. Our focus is on raising awareness, fostering understanding, and encouraging individuals to seek the help they need without fear or hesitation.
By joining Scars and Stripes in 1776, you become part of a movement that honors the sacrifices of those who serve while striving to prevent further loss. Together, we endeavor to ensure that our Military Veterans, First Responders, and their families not only survive but thrive.
One thing we do that makes us truly unique is providing “Throttle Therapy” which is the act of getting out and riding motorcycles. We have built an amazing community and events that bring Veterans and First Responders together.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
The truth is the charity mission is so important to me because I am battling PTSD, and mental health challenges as well. Operating this charity is my purpose and passion. It keeps me focused and accountable.
Through my struggles and successes, I want others to know that they are not in this alone. I may appear motivated, successful, happy, etc. but the truth is I connect with this community because I am in the same fight. I am inspired to help others find their post-traumatic purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.scarsandstripes1776.com
- Instagram: @scarsandstripes1776
- Facebook: Scarsandstripes1776
- Youtube: Scarsandstripes5374
- Other: https://scarsandstripes.charityraffles.org/
Image Credits
Kylie Kulpa at Eighteen Photos @eighteenphotos and Crystal – @conceptsbycrystal
