SGT Marcus Hayward

Lake Worth, FL

Mission Accomplished on Saturday, September 28, 2024

Marcus Hayward joined the military after realizing college wasn’t the right fit for him, and it ended up being one of the best decisions of his life. He enlisted as a specialized search dog handler with the 385th Military Police Battalion.

On July 29, 2010, during his third combat deployment, Sergeant Hayward was supporting the 3rd Special Forces Group in Khakrez, Afghanistan, when his ATV struck a pressure plate improvised explosive device (IED). SGT Hayward lost his left leg and sustained damage to his eye, face, and left hand.

Marcus spent the following two years undergoing rehabilitation and regaining the ability to walk on his prosthetic.

Medically retired, Marcus has since earned his associate’s degree in physical therapy and now has two children, Macayle and Mekhi, with his wife, Elizabeth. A self-described fitness enthusiast, Marcus has found a passion for adapted sports and competes frequently. He works in the substance abuse recovery community, helping individuals find freedom from drugs and alcohol through movement.

In his former multilevel home, Marcus experienced difficulty using the stairs. A single-level, specially adapted custom HFOT home allows Marcus to access every room, and also relieves stress for Elizabeth, who often worried about Marcus’ safety. Regaining his independence within the home gives Marcus more time and energy for his future plans. He is looking forward to making memories and sharing experiences with his family in and outside the home.

Marcus says being welcomed into the HFOT family feels like he “hit the jackpot”. “You are changing the lives of not only the Veterans, but their families as well. Your support leaves each Veteran and family feeling cared for and seen.”