Michael Broughman has been a member at the Betty J. Pullum YMCA for seven years. His wife, Mary, and two daughters join him at the Y as he trains for the 2020 Wounded Warrior games.
Michael grew up in New Jersey and attended high school in Virginia. After high school, he joined the military, serving 23 years in the United States Air Force. He was injured in a joint task force mission. He and his family moved to Florida in 2012. He enjoys a variety of activities that allow him to build strength and enhance his recovery from reconstructive surgeries. He is currently recovering from ankle reconstruction. He enjoys Spinning, water aerobics and the rowing machine.
The YMCA has impacted his journey with our friendly staff and family activities. He has competed in the Invictus Games, earning a gold medal. He competed in shot put, discus, one-minute and four-minute rows and sitting volleyball. He plans to compete in the 2020 Wounded Warrior games and is using his training time at the Y to prepare.
Michael is a fighter. As he works to regain his strength, mobility and physical fitness, he also mentors others with similar physical injuries, ADHD and PTSD. He helps them to set goals and get education benefits. He also sits on the Student Advisory Board.
Michael’s other hobbies include collecting superhero merchandise and painting miniature figurines to help him concentrate and build focus. He loves education and learning. When he isn't taking a Spinning class, you can often find him reading as he rides a stationary bike. We would like to thank Michael for his service and for his continued support of our Y community.
Thank you, Michael and good luck at the 2020 Wounded Warrior Games!