Grief has a way of changing people. For some, it breaks them. For others, like AdiJackel, it ignites a mission.
In 2018, Adi and her family were named Spirit of a Hero Recipients, but their journey to that moment was one of unimaginable loss. Her husband, U.S. Army Sgt. Stephen Jackel, was a warrior—a man who had survived the horrors of war, endured devastating injuries, and fought to reclaim his life. But on January 3, 2018, the battle he had been fighting inside finally became too much.
A Community That Stepped In
When Adi lost Stephen, she found herself in a storm of shock and heartbreak. But she wasn’t alone. Rick and Tancy Turner, founders of Spirit of a Hero, were there from the very beginning.
That morning, when Adi made the call no one ever wants to make, they rushed in without hesitation. Tancy took the children away from the house, shielding them from the pain unfolding inside, while Rick stood by Adi’s side as she faced the unimaginable. He stayed with her through every agonizing step—until Stephen was taken from their home. And they never left her side after that.
From helping with funeral arrangements to supporting the family financially and emotionally, Spirit of a Hero became more than an organization—they became family.
Fighting for Those Who Fight Silent Battles
Stephen’s passing was a heartbreaking reminder that not all wounds are visible. His struggle with PTSD and the demons of war didn’t end when he left the battlefield. It’s a reality too many veterans face—fighting a war within long after their service is over.
Losing Stephen changed everything for Adi. It shifted her focus. It lit a fire inside her to fight for those who are still here.
She made it her mission to raise awareness about PTSD and veteran suicide—because she knows firsthand that the traditional support systems aren’t always enough. She, along with Spirit of a Hero, began working toward something bigger: a PTSD recovery center where veterans could find real help, real healing, and a real chance at survival.
A New Mission: At Ease
From that pain, the At Ease PTSD Recovery Center was born. It’s not just an idea—it’s a movement, a promise to those struggling in silence that they are not alone. Adi and Spirit of a Hero are committed to creating a place where veterans and first responders can find the support they truly need—outside of the bureaucratic red tape that too often fails them.
“I will not rest in Stephen Jackel’s honor until we make this happen.”
Adi’s strength is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and purpose. She lost a husband, but she refuses to lose another hero without a fight.
Stephen Jackel was a warrior. And now, Adi is carrying on his fight—not just for him, but for every veteran and first responder who is still battling their demons.
We lost a great brother. Now, it’s our turn to honor him.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. You are not alone.
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