Each person has their own ludicrous story to share with others, but how many people can say that they’ve been falsely declared as dead while being very much alive? Unfortunately, Carmelo Rodriguez experienced it, and it ruined his life.
Rodriguez is anything but dead; he is an author, combat veteran, and a father who learned early on that life is never easy. Growing up in poverty, Rodriguez spent years homeless when he was a child, living off of public assistance programs. Joining the military saved and turned Rodriguez’s life around, which he will forever be grateful and honored for the years he spent in service.
After the military, Rodriguez spent the remainder of his time in law enforcement. Rodriguez went on to obtain multiple degrees, as well.
However, Rodriguez’s life took a turn for the worse when a tragedy happened that changed his perspective.
When an error by the Veterans Administration declared him dead, Rodriguez lost all of his benefits and found himself in a battle with the US Government, bombarded with bureaucracy and repercussions. Agency after agency followed suit and declared him dead as well, worsening the scenario and sending him into a spiraling effort to reclaim his identity and be reported alive.
Rodriguez has spent over a year trying to get a semblance of order back into his life again.
Backed into a corner and growing desperate by the minute, Rodriguez started a documentary series to bring light to his case and help others who may be going through the same situation. The series ultimately caught the public’s interest and gained Rodriguez’s national attention.
From that point on, Rodriguez became a true advocate for the veterans who have been victims of mistreatment and false claims, and he helps fight for their justice. Rodriguez started writing books based on his story and experience in law enforcement, as well as motivational books. Currently, Rodriguez is working on a communications book that revolves around law enforcement.
On top of writing his books, Rodriguez finds the time to feed the homeless. He is also working his way into law school so Rodriguez can get involved in politics.
There was a time in Rodriguez’s life where everything went against him. What kept him going was hunger. Hunger can mean two things: the feeling of weakness caused by the lack of food or the strong desire for something. Hunger could also drive you to pursue and fight for a cause.
When he was accidentally declared as deceased, Rodriguez felt the threat of having everything he built taken away from him. Growing up poor, Rodriguez experienced times when he had no idea if he could eat for the day. So when he felt backed into a corner, Rodriguez found the resolve to fight back. He refused to go through poverty again and have his family experience it.
With everything that he went through and overcame, Rodriguez still has a lot to offer to the world. Rodriguez hopes to become a lawyer, entrepreneur, and a successful motivational speaker.
Rodriguez’s journey has shown that nothing is impossible if people are hungry enough to chase after their goals.
Take the time to Rodriguez’s website and know more about him and his life story.
Opinions expressed by NY Weekly contributors are their own.
