Few people have a huge heart like that of actor Gary Sinise. This incredible man has done so much for our military men and women throughout the years that we can never thank him enough.
Best known for his role as Lt. Dan in the film “Forrest Gump,” Sinise has spent his life helping others and spreading kindness and joy where they are needed the most. His non-profit organization, Gary Sinise Foundation, has raised $194 million for wounded veterans, first responders, and their families from 2011 to 2019. Among the rest, the foundation constructs specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded veterans that are provided mortgage-free.
It looks like Sinise is doing all in his power to ensure that his portrayal of Lt. Dan, who lost both legs during a military operation, has much more influence than just being a character in a film.
This time, Sinise changed the life of a veteran who suffered the same fate as Lt. Dan.
Marine Staff Sgt. Jonathon Blank, who served in Afghanistan, lost both his legs and suffered a head injury when an improvised explosive device detonated next to him in October 2010.
The custom built house Sinise’s foundation gave Blank is easy to navigate and has everything this man needs. It is energy efficient, has lights and blinders which are controlled remotely, as well as voice-activated technology. In addition to that, the house has a lift which helps Blank move from one floor to the other.
“He’s always dragging and carrying all of his belongings up and down the stairs,” Blank’s fiancée Brittney said. “No obstacle is too significant for him to overcome, but simply seeing cupboards that he can reach by pulling them down rather than having to hop up there can make a world of difference for him.”
So far, Gary Sinise Foundation has helped built around 60 homes for the injured veterans.
