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Nonprofit Builds Adaptive Smart Home for Blinded Veteran
Homes for Our Troops to provide Sergeant First Class Aaron Cornelius with custom-designed residence.
Feb. 3, 2026 at 6:47am
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Army veteran Sergeant First Class Aaron Cornelius was blinded by an IED explosion during his service. The nonprofit organization Homes for Our Troops is now building an adaptive smart home for Cornelius in Bradenton, Florida to help him feel safe, comfortable, and independent in his own residence.
Why it matters
Cornelius has faced daily challenges in his current home, including difficulty with basic tasks like adjusting the thermostat and securing the home. The new custom-designed smart home from Homes for Our Troops will provide Cornelius the accessibility and independence he needs as a blind veteran.
The details
Two years ago, Cornelius connected with Homes for Our Troops and selected their 'American Dream' home model. The nonprofit, with the help of the local community, is now building an adaptive smart home for Cornelius that will feature custom modifications to allow him to easily control features like the thermostat and home security system.
- Cornelius was injured by an IED explosion while serving as a platoon sergeant.
- Two years ago, Cornelius connected with Homes for Our Troops.
- Cornelius's new adaptive smart home is expected to be ready in May.
The players
Sergeant First Class Aaron Cornelius
An Army veteran who was blinded by an IED explosion during his service.
Homes for Our Troops
A nonprofit organization that builds and donates specially adapted custom homes nationwide for severely injured post-9/11 Veterans, to enable them to rebuild their lives.
What’s next
Cornelius's new adaptive smart home is expected to be ready in May.
The takeaway
This story highlights the important work of nonprofits like Homes for Our Troops in providing custom-designed homes and accessibility solutions for severely injured veterans, empowering them to live independently and with dignity in their own residences.
