Patrick Purnell - MY LIFE

 Patrick discusses his life journey as a survivor.  He shares the causes of his battles, the struggles that left him in a wheelchair, and his outlook for the future.  His never-give-up attitude will inspire most and encourage everyone. 

Former Community Volunteer involvement

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) — Emergency Management

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) — Emergency Management

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) — Emergency Management

 

• Completed comprehensive training in disaster preparedness and basic disaster response skills as part of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program.

• Equipped to support emergency management efforts by applying foundational response techniques in the event of a disaster or community emergency.

Peer Support Specialist

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) — Emergency Management

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) — Emergency Management

  

Michael E. DeBakey Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center

Peer Support Specialist | Mental Health Department (Volunteer)


• Provided peer support services within the Mental Health Department, offering guidance and encouragement to veterans navigating mental health and substance use recovery.

• Facilitated Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) , Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Emotions Anonymous (EA) program sessions, fostering a supportive environment conducive to sustained recovery.

Harris County Veterans Courts

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) — Emergency Management

Habitat for Humanity — Volunteer

Veterans Court — Peer Support Specialist | Mentor & Volunteer


• Provided peer mentorship and support services across Veterans Court divisions, including misdemeanor, felony, and family court programs.

• Guided veteran participants through court-mandated processes, offering encouragement, accountability, and connection to recovery resources.

Habitat for Humanity — Volunteer

Filth Ward Teen support volunteer

Habitat for Humanity — Volunteer

 Assisted in the repair and rebuilding of residential properties impacted by hurricanes and severe storms, contributing to recovery and restoration efforts within affected communities. Applied Peer Support training to provide emotional comfort, guidance, and encouragement to distressed homeowners navigating the challenges of disaster recovery.

Church services volunteer

Filth Ward Teen support volunteer

Filth Ward Teen support volunteer

Served across multiple departments, consistently providing attentive assistance and support to congregation members with professionalism and dedication..

Filth Ward Teen support volunteer

Filth Ward Teen support volunteer

Filth Ward Teen support volunteer

  

The organization is dedicated to empowering young men in the Fifth Ward through STEM, college readiness, and graphic arts. They rely on adult mentors and offer great avenues for community support. Learn more or contact them via the Urban Enrichment Institute.

Entrepreneurship Life Group

Entrepreneurship Life Group

Entrepreneurship Life Group

 A supportive professional and personal development collective focused on building businesses while balancing life, faith, and leadership 

The Happy Times and The Not Happy

Just a small sample of my journey

Life is not in our control

Life often presents us with challenges we never dreamed we would experience.


                    BUT YOU NEVER GIVE UP! 

The simple act of replacing windows and doors to slow the water flow from a roof leak could turn into a life-changing event.

 Patrick Purnell’s recovery story is one of incredible resilience and courage. As a fully disabled Air Force veteran, he’s faced some of life’s toughest battles—surviving three heart attacks, fighting cancer, and pushing through the aftermath of a stroke. Each challenge came with its own struggles, from physical setbacks to the emotional weight they carried.  

The anguish and pain we endure alone in silence

I have been surprise and saddened that I have been treated like this. 

Do you think this is an okay way to live? 

Don't worry, the roof will be fixed soon .

Do you think this is an okay way to live? And you have to pay maintenance fees for the privilege of living this way.

Just a Little Leak.

Do you think this is an okay way to live? And you have to pay maintenance fees for the privilege of living this way.

We can help your roof leak

When the roofing contractor leaves a few things unfinished, this is how much water flows. You are very unlikely to keep water from finding a way in.

Living with Mold

Breathing and lung issues are the natural results of living with mold and high humidity.  Houston weather supports mold and respiratory problems.  Breathing treatments become the norm.

When an unrepaired roof leak leads to additional expenses and medical problems.

Replacing windows and patio doors will help with the water leaks, so let's add a new problem. Ceramic dust is very harmful to everyone, especially if you are unaware that the contractor is not properly prepared to do the job. Be careful who you trust.

The conditions that challenge life as stroke survivors

 Patrick talks about his life and the everyday challenges he encounters. 

Patrick"s recovery Journey

 Patrick Purnell goes through his journey of recovery. He is a 100% disabled Air Force veteran and survivor of three heart attacks, cancer, and a stroke. His journey includes dealing with depression,  anxiety,  aphasia, and the issues that come with major life events. Help him tell his story. 

The roof still leaks, water still flows.

Imagine dealing with depression, aphasia, and anxiety, then having to look forward to these sights and sounds when you try to rest. 

Veteran Resource Hub

Veteran Administration

DAV : Disabled American Veterans

The Texas Veterans Commission

 The Veterans Administration is the gateway to the benefits veterans have earned. From medical care and mental health support to rehabilitation services, the VA delivers comprehensive resources to those who served. 

 www.va.gov   800-698-2411   Hours: 24/7 

The Texas Veterans Commission

DAV : Disabled American Veterans

The Texas Veterans Commission

  The Texas Veterans Commission has been the state advocate of Texas veterans since 1927. It offers claims representation, counseling, employment, education, and assistance programs for veterans.      

  • 800-252-8387

 tvc.texas.gov or  texvet.org 

DAV : Disabled American Veterans

DAV : Disabled American Veterans

DAV : Disabled American Veterans

 DAV Helps more than a million veterans every year. We stand ready to provide a lifetime of support to veterans of all generations, their families and their survivors at no cost. 

 www.dav.org     (877) 426-2838 

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

DAV : Disabled American Veterans

DAV : Disabled American Veterans

 

Call, Text, or Chat the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 988. Hours are available 24/7 and the cost is free.

 988lifeline.org 

American Legion

Catholic Charities

American Legion

  The American Legion is the largest U.S. veterans organization with more than 1.6 million members who strengthen the nation through programs, services, and advocacy for those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, youth, and communities. 

 Join | The American Legion 

Combined Arms

Catholic Charities

American Legion

  Combined Arms is the nation's most effective referral network for veterans, service members, and military families.

 Contact Us - Combined Arms 

Salvation Army

Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities

 The Salvation Army is one of the largest social service providers in the United States. We are committed to serving our neighbors in need of assistance in every zip code throughout the nation. Locate the service center nearest to you to find immediate assistance or volunteer opportunities through Salvation Army food pantries, shelters, financial assistance programs, summer camps, and more. 

Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities

  Catholic Relief Services carries out the commitment of the Bishops of the United States to assist the poor and vulnerable overseas. We are motivated by the Gospel of Jesus Christ to cherish, preserve and uphold the sacredness and dignity of all human life, foster charity and justice, and embody Catholic social and moral teaching as we act t 

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