How a blind Army veteran went from trauma to triumph - Tango Alpha Lima

How a blind Army veteran went from trauma to triumph - Tango Alpha Lima

Author: The American Legion February 17, 2026 Duration: 1:07:37

From childhood trauma to military service, from a career-ending brain injury as a paramedic to Paralympic glory — Shawn Cheshire's story is one of extraordinary resilience.

In this powerful episode, the former US Army helicopter mechanic and 13-time US para-cycling national champion shares how she rebuilt her life after losing her sight at age 36. The Army veteran opens up about her journey from contemplating suicide to becoming a Paralympian, crossing the Grand Canyon solo as the first blind woman to complete Rim to Rim to Rim, and cycling across America on a single bike.

Her new documentary "Blind AF" captures her incredible endurance challenges and the trauma she's overcome. This is a conversation about refusing to be defined by your circumstances and choosing to see possibility even in darkness.


Also in this episode: the BEACON Act, the magic of audio books and more.


SHOW LINKS

Military memoir audiobook recommendations

AURA Special Offer

Learn more about Shawn Cheshire

Choosing to See

Join the USA250 Challenge

American Legion Advocacy Toolkit

American Legion Grassroots Action Center

Visit Legiontown

Reddit Rabbit Hole: Tall tales and fish stories in the military community





Hosted by three veterans of the Global War on Terrorism, the Tango Alpha Lima Podcast from The American Legion is a weekly conversation built on shared experience. Each episode sits down with fellow veterans and influential voices from the military community for discussions that are as substantive as they are engaging. Listeners will hear candid stories about the transition to civilian life, moments of valor, and the ongoing journey toward mental wellness, including frank talk about overcoming PTSD and navigating VA benefits. But this podcast is more than just interviews; it’s a reflection of military camaraderie. The hosts bring a familiar, often humorous dynamic to the table, blending playful joking and vibrant discussion with their takes on current events, interesting trends, and the quirky stories that resonate with those who have served. It’s a mix of heartfelt personal narratives, practical advice, and timely commentary, all delivered with the authenticity only insiders can provide. Tune in for a connection that feels like pulling up a chair with old friends who aren’t afraid to tackle the tough topics or share a laugh about the lighter side of life in and after the uniform.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Tango Alpha Lima Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Sleep Deprivation Risks Every Veteran Should Know - Tango Alpha Lima [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:51
Sleep isn't a luxury — it's a mission-critical function. And for veterans, the stakes are even higher. Dr. Sara Alger, Sleep Research Scientist with the Psychological Health Branch at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Re…