U.S. Army Captain Kurt L. was diagnosed with two Grade III astrocytomas shortly after returning from his deployment to Iraq in 2008. Due to the effects of the tumors and the intensive treatments required to manage them, he was medically retired from military service. Despite his determination and resilience, Kurt experienced a recurrence in 2010 and another in 2020, when the cancer progressed to Grade IV glioblastoma (GBM), one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer.

According to his medical team, the likely cause of Kurt’s cancer is exposure to toxic substances during his deployment in Iraq. Since his diagnosis, he has faced a long and challenging journey marked by ongoing treatment, monitoring, and uncertainty.

To manage his condition, Kurt travels every three months to see his neuro-oncologist for specialized care and monitoring. Over time, the financial burden of repeated travel for treatment became increasingly difficult for him and his family. That’s when Luke’s Wings stepped in to help.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, Luke’s Wings provides quarterly flights that allow Kurt to continue accessing the world-class care he depends on. Kurt firmly believes that this support is helping extend his life by ensuring he can receive the best treatment available. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact that access to specialized medical care—and the support of a grateful community—can have on wounded and ill Veterans.

June 26, 2026 •