Patrick shares a raw and intense account of his life: raised in a difficult environment, moving through jail, the military, and ultimately homelessness. He served two tours in Afghanistan with the 101st Airborne, Unit 506, and came back disillusioned and unsupported. He emphasizes that the homeless community has compassion and solidarity—qualities he finds lacking in broader society and government systems.
Patrick's story also connects themes of trauma, failed systems, addiction, and the psychological impact of war. He is frank about using methamphetamines to avoid vulnerability while sleeping, the lack of resources (particularly hygiene), and how being viewed as less-than-human affects his mental state. He expresses frustration and rage at systemic indifference, and deep pain from being estranged from his children and unable to rebuild his life without basic support.
