HOUSTON—While accepting a free home from a local donation group Monday, a Marine had a surprise for those in attendance.
On Sgt. Eddie Wright’s second tour of duty in Iraq in 2004, his Marine unit was ambushed. Wright survived the ambush, but lost both his forearms and hands.
"Well, either it’s hot in here or I’m nervous," said Wright on Monday afternoon.
Wright was nervous because he was about to be given a brand new home by the organization Helping a Hero. He chose Monday so he could propose to his girlfriend Cody Fife in front of a crowd.
"I hope you forgive me for doing this and putting you on the spot Cody," said Wright during his acceptance speech. "Will you marry me?"
Cody said yes without any hesitation. She added it is Wright’s heart and attitude that makes him so special.
"He doesn’t feel sorry for himself, he doesn’t make excuses," Wright’s new fiance said. "Sometimes we joke because I forget he doesn’t have hands. He makes it look easy, easier than it really is."
"This house is beyond words, I am really speechless, I don’t know what to say," Wright said.
Wright’s new house contains five bedrooms, enough room for the couple and her two children.
It’s designed so Wright’s struggles are limited.
To open the kitchen cabinets, Wright just pushes them and they pop open. The master bath has an automated toilet that is self cleaning. The lid opens when you approach it.
All the furniture in the home was donated by Rooms To Go and Mattress Firm donated all the beds.
Wright’s new home marks the 20th Helping The Hero has given to wounded veterans.
The homes are paid for with donations, but they are not completely free to those receiving them. Veterans must put in $50,000, which with today’s interest rates, is very affordable.
