Michael (Mike) Coker

Michael (Mike) Coker (Marine Corps) found himself addicted to drugs, in trouble with the law, and homeless after serving in the military. In 2012, Mike admitted himself into one of the VA’s inpatient Mental Health Units in Charleston, South Carolina, where he entered the VA’s Substance Abuse and Recovery Program. While there, he learned that he had been self-medicating to mask the effects of PTSD. Through perseverance and with incredible support, Mike moved from temporary to permanent housing, obtained a college degree, began full-time work, and now has years of sobriety. Originally from the Bronx, Mike now lives in Greenville, South Carolina.