As John Lesnik strained to reel in the redfish hooked on the end of his line, the combat-wounded Marine veteran standing next to him leaned over to help. From that moment on, the thrashing 40-incher didn’t stand a chance.
Lesnik grins while recalling the feeling of euphoria the two men, who had met only two days before, shared as he talks about Hooks of Hope, a Christian-based nonprofit that provides saltwater fishing retreats for veterans struggling with transition and adjustment issues, PTSD, traumatic stress, brain injuries, and physical disabilities.
“At Hooks of Hope, we don’t just take veterans fishing; we bring in experts like Dr. Brett Haake and clinical counselors like Dr. Chris Ostrander and Adrian Marquez, who discuss brain health, hormonal changes, chronic pain, and other challenges the men may be facing,” Lesnik explains.
“We talk a lot about identity, who the Bible says we are as godly men, and our purpose. We give veterans the tools, mentorship, faith, and specialized resources to continue the battle long after the boat ride ends.”…