WYOMISSING, Pa. – A veteran in Berks County is finding a way to share his story while inspiring others struggling with both physical and mental disabilities.
“Tonight, we’re celebrating the launch of Chris’s book,” said Gretchen Kegg, Chris Kegg’s wife. “It’s called, ‘Don’t Quit On Me,’ and it’s his life story.”
Chris Kegg always knew what he wanted to do.
“He entered the Marine Corps as a third-generation Marine,” Gretchen said. “Unfortunately, his career was cut short to just three and a half years.”
At 21 years old, Chris was diagnosed.
“He struggles with a degenerative nerve condition called adrenomyeloneuropathy,” Gretchen said.
Nearly 30 years ago, Chris’s life changed forever. Now, his story is laid out in this book to inspire others as he was once inspired himself.
“It’s not just about physical, it’s about emotional well-being and mental health, and also just the ability to overcome challenges. If Chris can do it, anyone can do it,” his wife said.
The title carries a story of its own.
“While he was on a very difficult run as part of the Marine Corps boot camp training, Chris was almost ready to quit, and his drill instructor motivated him, saw something special in him and said, ‘Don’t quit on me, Kegg,’ and that’s where we get the title,” Gretchen said.
Since he left the military, Chris focused his strength toward helping others.
“Behind me, we have so many friends and family who have been instrumental in his entire life, his businesses in the area, through his gym named Corps Fitness, and also his foundation that he started named the IM ABLE foundation,” Gretchen said.
And he has a wife who has stood by his side.
“It’s privilege to take care of him, and there’s no one I’d rather do it for,” Gretchen said.
The book now is a way for others, like his son, to find the light at the end of the tunnel.
“I think it’ll teach him that he’s not alone in our world, and that he has a great community surrounding him as his father declines physically, and also just resilience,” Gretchen said.