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Organization builds home for local paralyzed marine

NOBLESVILLE, Ind. (WISH) — Imagine receiving a brand new custom built home; spacious, wood floors, and mortgage free. That’s exactly what one deserving Noblesville man will receive.

Corporal Zachary Nelson joined the Marines right after high school in 2010. He was deployed to Afghanistan late the next year. Seven months later, he was on a mission when his vehicle went off the road, rolling over and crushing him underneath. Now, Nelson is paralyzed from the chest down. Next month, he and his wife, Kiley, will receive a life changing gift: keys to their new home.

For Cpl. Nelson, basic tasks can be a challenge.

“Mobility and things of that nature are probably the biggest problem I run into,” Nelson said.

Mobility is especially a problem at home.

“Not having enough room in a hallway to turn around, not having enough room in the bathroom or whether your bathroom is safe for you to use,” he said.

The sweet sounds of construction is music to the Nelson’s ears.

“We can’t wait to move into our forever home and really get settled and decorate and make it our long-term home,” said Nelson.

When complete, it’ll have four bedrooms, two bathrooms and will be 2,600 square feet. But most appealing for the Nelsons; safety.

“The bathroom has a roll-in shower, which is more accessible for him. The kitchen, he can roll underneath the sink, underneath the stove. The counter tops are lower,” explained Nelson.

Homes for Our Troops, an organization that builds houses for severely injured post 9/11 veterans, is building the Nelson’s home.

“A gift like this, we never imagined we’d receive a home that he would be able to live independently, with full accessibility specifically adapted for his injury to meet his needs,” said Nelson.

And although the Nelson’s aren’t paying for their home, it certainly came with a heavy price.

“I was a guy that just happened to have a bad day at work. That’s how I look at it. I had a bad day at work. Now it’s time to get on with my life. You can’t let it hold you back,” said Cpl. Nelson.

The Nelson’s new yard is in need of a little attention too. On Saturday, Dec. 5 beginning at 11:00 am, Homes for Our Troops is having a volunteer day for the Nelsons. They’re asking that people come out with small gardening tools and help out with the landscaping. For more information, click here.