Jesse Williamson was no stranger to flying high. As a moto-cross racer, he had experienced the exhilaration of catching air, but the feeling he experienced on that fateful day in Afghanistan was far from exhilarating. Returning from a mission, his Humvee was hit by an improvised explosive device, launching him into the air and leaving him with severe injuries.
Despite surviving the blast, Williamson struggled with physical and emotional pain. He underwent numerous surgeries and eventually lost both of his legs. Battling PTSD, he turned to substances for relief, spiraling into addiction and isolation. It wasn’t until he found solace in golf that he began to find healing.
Through therapy and the camaraderie of fellow veterans, Williamson learned to confront his trauma and guilt. Golf became more than a sport to him—it became a lifeline. The mental and physical challenges of the game helped him stay present and focused, providing a much-needed escape from his past.
Joining organizations like the On Course Foundation, Williamson found a sense of purpose and community. Through golf, he not only found healing but also love. Meeting Stephanie, who shared his experience of loss, they found solace in each other and were married shortly after.
Today, Williamson shares his story of resilience and redemption, attributing his newfound joy to the little white ball that now symbolizes hope and possibility. From the depths of despair to the heights of joy, his journey is a testament to the transformative power of sport and human connection.
