Meleste Togia

Former Specialist (SPC) Melesete Togia, hailing from Honolulu, Hawaii, found peace in the serene landscapes of her hometown, cherishing moments at the beach, in the gym, on hiking trails, and paddling canoes, often accompanied by her daughter. Baking became a shared joy, brightening the days of those around her. Melesete’s journey took an unexpected turn when she tested positive for COVID-19 on September 4, 2021, while deployed in Iraq, leading to a harrowing evacuation to Germany. Enduring a 20-day battle on life support, defying odds with over 10 revivals, Melesete’s resilience was tested. The aftermath reshaped her life entirely—her marriage dissolved, relationships fractured, and friendships faded. Yet, in the darkness, the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) provided the essential care she needed, guiding her towards recovery. Participating in the Army Trials, she discovered a beacon of hope, resonating deeply with the stories of her fellow teammates, finding courage to confront her own challenges. It was at the Warrior Challenge 2023 where a transformative shift occurred, birthing a new mindset. Acknowledging the support of the Army Rehabilitation Program (ARP) gardening group for fostering a nurturing environment and the camaraderie of her gym companions who propelled her forward, Melesete draws strength from her faith, guided by the Quranic principle: “Nothing will happen to us, except what God has written for us.”