TAMPA, Fla. — A Tampa Bay veteran severely injured in a van wreck over a decade ago is using art to heal.

  • Wounded Warrior Project connected Fernando Martinez with art therapy
  • Martinez among 12 veterans showcasing artworks at art show April 13
  • Hundreds of veterans utilize art therapy across the country
  • More Good News stories

It's all part of an independence program through the Wounded Warrior Project.

In 2004, Marine Fernando Martinez was heading to the airport when the van he was traveling in crashed. The incident left him with a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

"The driver fell asleep and [Fernando] was the front-seat passenger," explained Suzanne Martinez, Fernando's wife.

After his injury, Fernando and Suzanne were able to connect with the Wounded Warrior Project and participate in their Independence Program

For the last four years, Fernando has been working with an art therapist weekly, creating different paintings. Many of his works come from just looking at what he sees around him. 

“He looks forward to it and it gets his creative outlet out," Suzanne explained "He does have a lot of say."

These days, Suzanne told us she loves to show off the results of his creativity.

"[Fernando]'s always been an artistic person since I've known him," she said. 

Hundreds of veterans participate in art therapy through the Wounded Warrior Project across the country.  In the Bay area, about 12 veterans take part in art therapy through the Independence Program.

That group, including Fernando, showcased their work in an art show Saturday, April 13. 

“It’s a lot more than just discovering their creative side," said Rob Lewis with the Wounded Warrior Project. "It also gives them a chance to retrain their brain to communicate with their body.” 

For Fernando, it's a way to continue doing something he loves and help him move forward.