CONCORD, N.C.,None — A nonprofit group that renovates the homes of injured veterans finished work on a Concord man's home on Wednesday.
• IMAGES: Nonprofit Renovates Veteran's Home
Iraq war veteran Cory Collins, a two-time Purple Heart recipient, returned home from the hospital Wednesday after having his leg amputated. Collins was injured when a 500-pound improvised explosive device hit his military convoy in 2005. He suffered 22 broken bones, including his pelvis, tailbone, back, four breaks in his left arm and three breaks in his left leg.
In the time since, Collins has had 28 surgeries.
"The pain has become unbearable and I can no longer deal with it," Collins told Purple Heart Homes, the group that renovated his home, before his amputation surgery. "I was the only survivor from this explosion, from which I lost three soldiers. Spc. Josh Munger was my driver and good friend, Spc. Benjamin Smith was my gunner -- best in the division might I add -- and Pfc. Tyler Mackenzie was in the back helping with dismount operations."
Purple Heart Homes began work on Collins' home on Sept. 11 and completed it Wednesday, just as Collins returned home from the hospital. The group remodeled the first floor of the home and its master bathroom to ensure Collins' quality of life and allow him to be home with his family while he recovers from his surgery.
RAW VIDEO: Collins Expresses Gratitude For Group's Work
Among other things, volunteers widened the shower and changed out carpet for hardwood so that Collins can get around more easily.
"I don't have to be dependent on anybody now," Collins said. "I can move from my bedroom to my kitchen and get around, and I don't have to worry about that stuff."
Purple Heart Homes was founded by veterans Dale Beatty and John Gallina, who were both injured in an explosion that eventually required the amputation of both of Beatty's legs. After returning home and building a house, Beatty said he recognized a need for all injured veterans to have help getting accommodating housing.
For more information on Purple Heart Homes or to donate to the organization, click here.