Sgt. Tu’ufuli’s Journey to Recovery After Iraq War Injury
- Sgt. Anesi 'Maverick' Tu’ufuli was severely injured in Iraq and transitioned to civilian life after leaving the military.
- Following the death of his wife in 2018, he became a single father to their two daughters and faced challenges due to his injuries.
- The Home Depot Foundation provided him with a specially adapted home to improve his quality of life and support his independence.
U.S. Army Sergeant Anesi 'Maverick' Tu’ufuli was severely injured during Operation Iraqi Freedom when he stepped on a remote-detonated IED. After his return home, he transitioned to civilian life with his wife and two daughters. Tragically, in 2018, his wife passed away from cancer, leaving him to raise their daughters as a single father. Due to his injuries, he spends about half of his day in a wheelchair, and his previous home lacked the necessary accessibility features for his mobility needs. Recognizing the challenges he faced, The Home Depot Foundation collaborated with Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors to provide Tu’ufuli with a specially adapted home. This new residence is designed to ensure he can navigate safely and comfortably, addressing the limitations of his former living situation. The Foundation also worked with The Home Depot Home to furnish and decorate the house, tailoring the selections to meet his specific requirements. A dedicated interior designer was assigned to work closely with Tu’ufuli, assessing his personal style and choosing items that would enhance his living experience. The new furniture and fixtures are intended to facilitate easier movement in a wheelchair, promoting independence and security in his daily life. The initiative reflects The Home Depot's commitment to supporting veterans, as many of its associates are veterans or military spouses. This partnership not only provides a new beginning for Tu’ufuli but also highlights the importance of community support for those who have served in the military.