b'and develop their personal vision. He conveys his message to those at underserved, lower income, and alternative schools. I tell the kids that as a Marine, I was highly trained for a mission, and then all of a sudden, I was in the hospital with no eyes and realized that now someone would have to take care of me, he said. I then tell them even if you feel helpless, you can still honor yourself and have courage, commitment, and character. I show them that it is possible to get back on track, remember your core values, adapt, and overcome. Michael currently serves as the President of the Blinded American Veterans Foundation in Washington, D.C., where he and KimberLee will soon relocate to from Ft. Worth. The couple is lobbying Congress to make legislative changes to improve the lives of blind and visually impaired veterans. Inaddition,MichaelworksaspartofLaDainianTomlinsons BY KARYN BRODSKYTeam America program helping teach character and leadership to Americas youth. He speaks at schools and football camps, providing positive reinforcement and tackling how to face adversity and grow from it. For his service to our country, for his resilience and perseverance, and for motivating others to overcome adversity and find their vision, Good Life Family Magazine presents Michael Jernigan with our Very Inspiring Person Award.Continued on next page(Top) Michael currently serves as the President of the Blinded American Veterans Foundation in Washington, D.C. where he and wife KimberLee are lobbying Congress to make legislative changes to improve the lives of blind and visually impaired veterans. Shown here: Michael with President George W. Bush (Bottom) Michael speaking to the 301st fighter wing.GoodLifeFamilyMag.comJANUARY | FEBRUARY 2020 13'