Articles
Mr. Electric of the Piedmont joins ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition to Honor N.C. Desert Storm Veteran.
(Eden, NC April 30, 2009) Long after the roar of battles fought almost twenty years ago has gone silent, the challenges faced by many returning veterans echo in daily life. For U.S. Army combat medic and Desert Shield/Desert Storm veteran Jeff Cooper, facing and overcoming these challenges both personally and as a family leader is a study in courage, faith and commitment.
Cooper returned from the Gulf War a highly decorated combat veteran. He also suffers from Gulf War Syndrome, immune disorders, multiple sclerosis and is confined to a wheelchair. Working against the pain, Cooper serves his fellow veterans as a strong voice both for veterans and the rights of the disabled.
Cooper, whose son Aaron lost his right arm to an auto accident two years ago, remained positive and upbeat despite the many daunting challenges facing him individually and his family. However, the family home, a decaying trailer with bad electrical wiring, a sinking roof and a rotting ramp, simply could not provide the comfort and accessibility they needed.
That’s where a group of seven Mr. Electric franchise owners stepped in, including Mr. Electric of the Piedmont. Using supplies donated by Rexel, Schneider Electric, Eagle Electric, ECK Supply Company and lodging provided by Hampton Inn of Edenton, they are working with the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition team to provide electrical services for the new custom-designed home the Cooper family will move into.
“We were honored to be a part of this project and didn’t think twice about sending a crew in to help,” said Zane Gauldin, owner of Mr. Electric of the Piedmont. “Our contribution to this project pales in comparison to what Jeff Cooper has done for our country and his family.”
“I know I echo the sentiments of every Mr. Electric franchise when I extend our sincerest best wishes and thanks to Jeff Cooper and his family,” said Jeff Meyers, president of Mr. Electric. “Helping the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition team create a comfortable and accessible home is work that comes more from the heart than the hands. We’ll take care of the home’s electrical needs because we know we can count on the Cooper family to fill it with love and inspiration.”
The episode airs this Sunday (May 3rd) at 8pm on ABC Television.
About Mr. Electric:
Mr. Electric of the Piedmont provides electrical installation and repair services to both residential and commercial customers. Mr. Electric of the Piedmont is a division of Morgan Mechanical Corporation headquartered in Eden, NC.
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