Category: CNN Regional

By Denelle Veselik

Click here for updates on this story

    TUCSON, Arizona (KGUN) — Casey Alexander was serving as a sniper in Iraq when a Christmas Eve explosion in 2007 changed the course of his life. Now, 20 years later, he is still fighting for recognition of the injuries he says that blast caused, and his wife says the battle has never really ended for their family.

“Like when people say, what do you want to do with your life, I can honestly say I already did it. Like I’ve accomplished it. For the longest time, that’s all I wanted to do is be a sniper in the United States Army,” Alexander said.

Today, Alexander’s days are filled with coaching, teaching and raising a family with his wife, Melissa. The Tucson natives, who met in elementary school and reconnected in college, married just before his first deployment.

Today, Alexander’s days are filled with coaching, teaching and raising a family with his wife, Melissa. The Tucson natives, who met in elementary school and reconnected in college, married just before his first deployment.

“All I remember is seeing fire,” Alexander said.

The blast was powerful enough that Alexander says he remembers very little beyond the flames. As for who survived the explosion:

“All of us. Like in that vehicle, everybody. And it should have been none of us,” Alexander said.

Alexander says there was little time to recover after the explosion.

“Unless you’re bleeding, don’t waste our time,” Alexander said.

He says the men were seen by a medic, given ibuprofen and told not to go to sleep. The next day, he was back on duty.

As years passed, Alexander says symptoms he couldn’t ignore began to surface.

“If I was gonna say, it’s TBI,” Alexander said.

A traumatic brain injury. Paperwork later showed doctors determined Alexander was suffering from conditions related to PTSD and TBI, ultimately leading to his medical retirement from the Army.

He would then request a Purple Heart medal tied to the Christmas Eve explosion but was denied.

“The only document we didn’t have was the medical card,” Alexander said.

Alexander says a medic named Michael Gilman evaluated the men after the blast, and a record from Gilman could have supported his case.

“If I would’ve got one from Mike Gilman, it should have worked,” Alexander said.

But Gilman can no longer provide that documentation.

“He ended up taking his life,” Alexander said.

Melissa Alexander says watching her husband navigate the denials has been difficult and that the fight for the Purple Heart is about more than a medal.

“When the wounds are not visible, so you can’t see them, they’re a little bit harder to like put your finger on it. But the wounds that he has are very real and he’s sacrificed a lot,” she said.

Those invisible wounds have had lasting physical consequences. Melissa Alexander says her husband deals with joint issues, migraines, hearing loss and back pain, and that his leg will give out randomly.

“It’s not just the physical things that he goes through. There’s also the emotional pieces of war, which he manages very well,” Melissa Alexander said.

She says Casey has a therapist he relies on, and that support from Major Saunders and Mike Dyer through the VA has been critical to the family getting through the medical retirement process.

“I feel like it’s such a tedious process that I think a lot of people probably give up. If we didn’t have that support, we may not have actually made it through the process,” Melissa Alexander said.

Gilman was not the only man connected to that explosion Alexander would later lose. Fellow sniper John McCutchen served alongside him the night of the blast.

“He was a brother,” Alexander said.

Alexander says McCutchen also applied for a Purple Heart tied to the explosion and faced repeated denials.

“He just kept getting the runaround, kept getting denied,” Alexander said.

Alexander says he believes the denials pushed McCutchen to a breaking point.

“I just remember him saying I’d be better off dead. My kids will benefit better,” Alexander said.

He says McCutchen later took his own life.

Melissa Alexander says mental health remains a critical concern for veterans and their families.

“Mental health is very important. He shared that a few of his friends have unfortunately taken their lives. Just getting the help that people need. Not being afraid to ask for help,” Melissa Alexander said.

Alexander says receiving the Purple Heart is more than recognizing his own service.

“It would represent fighting for McCutchen, who fought for it for himself,” Alexander said.

The fight has caught the attention of local veterans, who voiced their concerns to Congressman Juan Ciscomani, hoping legislation might succeed where years of paperwork had not.

“They put their life on the line. They got this injury through their service, and now they can’t be recognized because of some rules, some bureaucratic rules in Washington that are old, that are outdated, and that are wrong and not science-based,” Rep. Ciscomani said. “I am confident that we can fix this either through rulemaking or legislation, whichever way it is that we’re trying to find out what the best approach here is. I am on this and I won’t stop until we get this done.”

Whether those efforts will bring change remains to be seen. For Alexander, the medal represents something far greater than recognition.

Alexander says he hopes sharing his story brings awareness to the struggles veterans face and encourages others not to give up.

“I’d like to see it happen just so I can take it to McCutchen’s wife,” Casey Alexander said.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, you can call the 24/7 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Nikki Hauser

Click here for updates on this story

    NASHVILLE, Tennessee (WTVF) — Innovative technology is transforming hospitals — with new tools, cutting-edge techniques, and now, a creative way to get around.

Graden Knapp, a gaming and technology specialist, uses fun tools like toys and video games to make sick kids’ stays in the hospital bearable.

What he didn’t know is that his work would also lead to the very first, almost-complete, 3D printed wheelchair at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital.

“I’m pretty happy with this project, and I’m really happy with getting invested in 3D printing because I think it really will change… and will be where children’s hospitals are going in the future,” he explained.

Knapp printed the first wheelchair in 2-3 months after coming across Made Good, a group of charity engineers that provided the design for the model. He also went forward with the project after realizing the need for more wheelchairs inside the hospital.

“Accessibility is one of them because you can really offer patients something that is specific to them, and that’s like my favorite aspect of this,” he smiled.

It comes with a lot of technical work, but the fun and colorful wheelchair is meant to improve patient care and make each child the happiest they can be.

Plus, it’s extremely cost-effective, about 10 times cheaper than a typical wheelchair.

“Hmm, what do I hope to see…a smile,” laughed Knapp. “I’m hoping kids find enjoyment and get to feel more comfortable as themselves when they’re using a wheelchair that matches their energy and is exciting and fun like they are.”

The idea is to provide the 3D wheelchair to kids at the hospital and allow them to take it home with them after their stay.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Karina Vargas

Click here for updates on this story

    OCEAN BEACH, California (KGTV) — Justin Voeller’s 8-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Angus, appeared healthy during a routine visit to the dog beach in Ocean Beach last week. But within hours of returning home, Angus began showing alarming neurological symptoms.

“It’s very strange that he would just be like literally constantly just spinning in circles, couldn’t stop spinning,” Voeller said.

Voeller rushed Angus to an emergency veterinarian after noticing the unusual behavior.

“He was exhibiting some neurological symptoms like constantly spinning, circling his food bowl, and not wanting to eat. So at the vet, they suspected right away that he had some drug exposure,” Voeller said.

The veterinarian confirmed Angus tested positive for methamphetamine. Voeller said the diagnosis was terrifying.

“They said that a big risk for him is overheating, which can damage their brain and lead to death too. Another dog died here last year of the same symptoms of the same exposure,” Voeller said.

The city’s Parks and Recreation Department said reports of this nature are rare, but dog owners are encouraged to maintain close supervision of their pets at all times. The department added that park rangers patrol the area regularly during working hours.

The San Diego Humane Society says pet owners should seek immediate veterinary care if their pet shows any signs of poisoning. Methamphetamine exposure in dogs can cause seizures, high body temperature, heart complications, or death.

Angus is recovering well. Voeller is now urging other dog owners to stay alert.

“If you see your dog acting really strange and exhibiting very unusual neurological behaviors, know that this is something that can happen to them, and they need immediate veterinarian care if that happens,” Voeller said.

Voeller reflected on just how serious the situation was for his beloved companion and how grateful he is that Angus is okay.

“He has jumped out of a moving car window because he saw a squirrel. He’s crazy. This was by far the biggest threat that he faced, though, and we’re very happy that he made it through,” Voeller said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. KGTV verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Stef Manchen

Click here for updates on this story

    TULSA, Oklahoma (KJRH) — The sound of hammers and power tools fills the air on a quiet Brookside street, where transformations are unfolding, and it’s not costing the homeowners a dime.

120 students from eight churches across Oklahoma have descended on Tulsa for Youth Force, an annual service project that provides free home repairs to families in need.

“We are putting up all this insulation and new siding,” explains Micah Tiger, a student working with God Squad 4.

For Tiger, the physical work is just part of the reward.

“It’s just really rewarding to just be able to see the work that’s being done, being able to impact someone a lot,” he said. “Knowing how much this is going to affect the people that I’m working for, and you’ve got to stay strong for the rest of your god squad.”

This summer marks the second year Christ Church at Harvard sponsored the Youth Force trip, housing all the student volunteers and leaders at their facility.

Seven families and one Sapulpa church are receiving the free home improvements.

The work isn’t always easy.

“Sometimes you get discouraged, like a piece doesn’t work like what just happened, it doesn’t work, but you just get back up, and you fix it,” he said.

But, in just four days, homes like the Waterdowns are undergoing complete transformations.

Lucy and Steve Waterdown have lived in their Brookside home for about 40 years, married for 35.

The couple knew their home needed repairs, but hadn’t been able to tackle the work themselves.

“I’m pretty overwhelmed right now,” said Lucy, watching the students work on her house. “It’s hard to believe, you know, I’m like any minute I’m gonna wake up and it’s not really gonna have happened.”

Across the street, Arei Sharp is working on another home improvement project. This marks her fourth year participating in Youth Force, and her enthusiasm hasn’t waned.

“I come because it’s the best part of my summer every single year,” Sharp said.

For Sharp, the experience is about something bigger than home repairs.

“This isn’t about you, it’s not about any of us here, it’s about the homeowner and what we do for her and her house,” she explained. “It’s so much fun, because it’s like you’re doing work for someone else, and it’s just heartwarming to see because everyone wants a safe house, and every single year my homeowners start crying because they’re so thankful.”

The impact extends far beyond fresh siding and new insulation. For families like the Waterdowns, the project represents hope and community support when they needed it most.

“We can’t thank them enough,” said Steve. “It’s such a surprise that this happened for us. I mean it was a total surprise.”

As for how the projects are funded, each student pays $275 to enroll in the camp. That covers most of the materials, as well as their meals through the week-long camp.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Lauren Minor

Click here for updates on this story

    CINCINNATI (WCPO) — For Dr. Samuel Vester, watching his daughter pursue a career in medicine was rewarding enough — but getting to work alongside her has been even better.

The longtime cardiac surgeon at UC Health now shares the operating room with his daughter, Dr. Hannah Vester, a surgical resident who is following the same career path.

Hannah is a fourth generation physician. Her great grandfather, grandfather and father all practiced medicine, and all attended the University of Cincinnati.

She began medical school in 2020 and graduated in 2024 before starting a six year surgical residency program at UC.

Now two years into her training, she has chosen to specialize in cardiac and thoracic surgery, just like her father.

Hannah said medicine became familiar at a young age.

“Obviously, I grew up with a dad surgeon, so he would take us on rounds when we were little kids, but I just really loved being in the hospital and being in the operating room,” Hannah said.

One of the most memorable moments came when she learned she had matched into UC’s residency program.

“I matched here. He’s not a crier, but there were definitely some tears in his eyes when I got to open my match letter and found out I was staying here,” Hannah said.

Not long after, the two performed their first surgery together as physician and resident. The experience became so meaningful that Samuel decided to delay retirement plans in order to continue working alongside his daughter during her training.

“Also on the flipside is that he had to not retire early,” Hannah said. “Instead, he stuck around for a couple extra years to finish out training with me instead of retiring around now as he had planned, which is nice that I get to have him stick around and train not just me, but my co residents as well.”

For Samuel, the opportunity has become one of the most meaningful parts of a decades long career.

“If any parent has the opportunity to work alongside one of their children, grasp that by the horns. It’s really the highlight of my career,” Samuel said.

As Father’s Day approaches, the father and daughter plan to spend time together outside the hospital. Neither is scheduled to be on call this weekend.

For both, the experience represents more than a family tradition; it’s a chance to share a profession they love while continuing a legacy that has spanned generations.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Waleed Alamleh

Click here for updates on this story

    WYOMING, Michigan (WXMI) — A Wyoming woman is warning her neighbors to lock their car doors and secure their garages after her car was stolen from inside her closed garage — and the entire incident was caught on a neighbor’s camera.

Shianne was ready to head to the grocery store Tuesday morning when she realized her car was gone.

“I realized that my car was stolen, and it was gone,” Shianne said.

The theft happened early Tuesday morning, near 44th and Burlingame. A neighbor’s camera captured the moment, and Shianne said watching the footage left her stunned.

“I was absolutely blown away, like there was no second thought on it, really. Like he came right up the driveway from behind the businesses right here, and he turned his phone flashlight on, walked through the doorway, the door of the garage, and he came in, turned the lights on, and proceeded to open up the garage and reverse and heal off with my car,” Shianne said.

Her Ford Taurus was parked inside her garage, as it typically is. But Shianne said she had left her keys inside the vehicle. The door leading into her garage does not have a lock on it.

“I was too comfortable, because you don’t leave your keys in your car. I always take whatever precautionary steps, like just to be safe, but I did leave my keys in the car,” Shianne said.

“I thought it’s in my garage. My garage door is closed. What does it matter? I never expected this to happen,” Shianne said.

The incident was not isolated. A neighbor about 2 minutes away shared video showing someone attempting to break into his car — 30 minutes before Shianne’s car was stolen.

Wyoming police said they encourage neighbors to practice a “9 PM routine,” which involves checking that all vehicles, doors, garages, and sheds are locked. Police also recommend bringing any valuables inside.

Shianne said the theft has left her shaken, particularly because the thief left with her house key.

“Was very frightened and worried that they would come back, because now they have my house key, they know where the car came from. I had to change my locks right when I yesterday when I, when all this went down, and it does frighten me,” Shianne said.

As a single mother, Shianne said the loss of her car has created a significant hardship.

“I use my car to go to work, to go to errands, to bring my kids to school, all the daily things you need to do, and it’s like it’s just taken from me, as simple as that,” Shianne said. “It creates a burden that no family should just have to experience.”

Shianne filed a police report and said she shared her story in hopes that neighbors can avoid the same experience.

A Gofundme was created for Shianne, to help with costs of transportation as she waits for an update.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. WXMI’s editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.