06/30/2026
Chad Clowson's Journey from Despair to Hope
On last week's Road to Hope Radio, host David Maulsby welcomed Marine Corps Veteran Chad Clowson, joined by Camp Hope Lead Veteran Coordinator Justin Lewis, for a powerful conversation about the realities of combat, the invisible wounds of war, and the hope that can be found through healing.
Originally from Altoona, Pennsylvania, Chad served in the U.S. Marine Corps and deployed during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, where he experienced intense combat and earned the Combat Action Ribbon. Like many combat Veterans, Chad returned home carrying wounds that weren't visible. PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse gradually took hold, leading him down a path of isolation and hopelessness.
As Americans prepare to celebrate Independence Day, Chad reflected on what freedom means from the perspective of someone who fought to defend it. He shared how returning home in June 2003 marked the beginning of years of struggle, as he turned to alcohol to cope with the trauma of war and eventually became suicidal.
Just a few months ago, Chad had reached one of the lowest points in his life. He had lost his family relationships, his father, and his home. It was through hearing about the PTSD Foundation of America | Camp Hope on The Michael Berry Show that his father encouraged him to seek help.
Nearly three months into the Camp Hope program, Chad's life has been transformed. Once estranged from his parents and sisters with virtually no communication, he recently celebrated one of the most meaningful moments of his healing journey: his baptism at Camp Hope. Standing alongside him were his parents, sisters, and daughters, a powerful testament to restored relationships and renewed hope.
Chad's story reminds us that healing is possible. Through faith, peer support, and the comprehensive programs at Camp Hope, Veterans can overcome the invisible wounds of war and rebuild the relationships that matter most.
Thank you to Chad Clowson and Justin Lewis for sharing this inspiring conversation and for reminding us that no Veteran has to fight their battles alone.