Nonprofit Awards Specially Adapted Home to Local Marine

REDLANDS>> The national nonprofit organization Homes for Our Troops will hosted two events this month to celebrate the newly completed home for Marine Staff Sergeant Hans Blum, who was severely injured in Afghanistan. The Volunteer Day was a chance for the community to do some landscaping before Blum’s homecoming. The Key Ceremony was recently held where Blum was awarded with keys to his home. On Feb. 10, 2012, Blum was conducting Post Blast Analysis with the 2nd EOD Company in Kajaki, Afghanistan, when he stepped on an improvised explosive device. The blast caused the traumatic amputations of both legs and damage to his left hand. Now medically retired, Blum plays sled hockey for the USA Warriors and San Diego Ducks. Playing the sport has led him to study recreational therapy. Blum’s new home features more than 40 major special adaptations such as widened doorways for wheelchair access, a roll-in shower and kitchen amenities that include pull-down shelving and lowered countertops. The home will also alleviate the mobility and safety issues associated with a traditional home, including navigating a wheelchair through narrow hallways, riding on carpets or reaching for cabinets that are too high. Homes for Our Troops has built 222 homes nationwide since its inception in 2004.