(Tribune News Service) – Sgt. Tyler Andrews, from Folsom, Calif., And Marine who was injured in a suicide bombing in Afghanistan, spoke for the first time on social media.

“Let me start by saying that these almost 2 months have indeed been difficult,” he said in a social media post. “I’ve tried to figure out what I mean and how to say it. The outpouring of support from friends, family, organizations and even complete strangers has been unreal. I can’t thank everyone enough. , but still, thank you. “

Andrews, 23, underwent 25 surgeries for serious injuries he sustained as a result of the blast, including a leg amputation, complete hip disarticulation and right arm amputation, said Warfighter Overwatch, a veteran and first responder support group.

After two months of treatment, Andrews left the intensive care unit in stable condition on October 14.

“I hate the way I look right now and I’m working mentally to come to terms with the loss of my right arm and left leg,” Andrews said. His statement was accompanied by a photo of him sitting in a hospital bed.

“Every day I work on my recovery,” he added. “Some days are better than others, but you better believe that I will always strive to be the best version of myself regardless of these injuries. I just have new challenges now and I am physically a person. different but i will see how far i can go with this new body haha ​​Thank you all again you have my love and the love of my family.

Andrews was among 18 U.S. servicemen who survived the bombing as they worked to evacuate Afghan refugees and Americans. Of those injured, Andrews suffered the most catastrophic injuries, Warfighter Overwatch said at the time.

After the attack, Andrews was transported to Germany for medical treatment. His mother, Tiffany Andrews, a lawyer at Folsom, joined her son there and was by his side every step of the way, Warfighter Overwatch said.

Andrews was transferred to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., Earlier this month after his injuries stabilized.

As of September 1, 14 more Marines were being treated at Walter Reed, including three in serious condition and 11 in stable condition, according to the Marine Corps Times. As of mid-September, seven Marines were still at Walter Reed.

The Folsom community rallied around Andrews and his family, providing meals, raising funds and tying yellow ribbons across town.

A GoFundMe fundraiser seeking to raise money for Andrews long-term care had raised more than $ 350,000 as of Wednesday. Warfighter Overwatch is collecting donations on its website for Andrews, his mother, and two younger siblings. Donations are also accepted by First Northern Bank in Roseville.

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