Legion M is all about community and the power of coming together for a greater good. This week, we are launching a new initiative to highlight our investors and members doing epic things, starting with those in our community on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19.

Not everyone in our community is a filmmaker or in the entertainment industry -- many of our members are medical professionals, researchers, charity organizers, military or national guard, or working in the food and service industries, which are more vital now than ever. If you're one of those people, we want to hear your stories, promote what you're doing, and extend our sincerest gratitude for making our society a better place for everyone.

Meet our Community Superheroes!

Jennifer McCrae

Jennifer is a trauma nurse at her local hospital who sees immunocompromised patients in their homes to limit their exposure. With hospitals becoming increasingly dangerous for these patients, Jennifer's house calls to these sensitive patients are more important now than ever. When she isn't saving the world from COVID-19, she is providing life coaching and baking up a storm. Her hopes and dreams for the future include going back to school to become a nurse practitioner and continue taking care of rare disease patients.

Jennifer's advice during these troubling times? "Drive safely, and please no ‘hold my beer’ moments. The fewer trauma patients right now, the better!"

Simon Oliver

Simon is an Air Force Medic Reservist and civilian firefighter currently deployed to Afghanistan and working in the largest hospital in the country.

Born and raised in England, Simon always admired the United States Air Force. Now, he is proud to be Technical Sergeant in what he calls "the world's greatest Air Force." A writer in his spare time with two books under his belt, Simon is about to have his first child. "I won't be able to get home in time for the birth," he shares, "but I am so excited about being a dad!"

His advice? "Please, please, please, listen to the medical advice you are hearing and stay home. The more people keep venturing out, the more cases we get back home, and the longer U.S. troops will be stuck on the other side of the planet from their loved ones." Let's help out Simon and all of our overseas neighbors in these times!

You can find information on Simon's writing here: https://thesjoliver.blogspot.com/

Dean Hawkey

Dean is not only a self-proclaimed kaiju-sized Legion M nerd but also, and more importantly, a senior technical designer for a kidney dialysis company, producing training materials to educate nurses and patients on a variety of topics. But ever since COVID-19 hit, everything about his job has changed. Most days, Dean's battlefield is the internet, video his battle-axe, and education his strategy for fighting back against this pandemic. "I recently worked 32 hours straight to get a video out on the proper use of PPE and masks," Dean shares. "I now feel very connected to the lives of our patients and teammates."

Dean reminds us how important the internet is for our doctors and nurses on the front lines and shares how we can do our part to help. "I hate to even ask this," he says, "But if you notice lag on the internet while watching a video, please take a break and watch at a less-trafficked time. Healthcare workers are dealing with delays while trying to do telehealth calls with patients. I know it is a lot to ask. But remember, if you are frustrated, imagine how they feel while trying to do their jobs." Thank you for the great advice, Dean, and for your continued service to healthcare professionals! Leigon M, and the world, are lucky to have you.

Neisha Mulchan

Besides being one of Legion M's most valued meetup hosts, Neisha's true superpower is working as a full-time medial provider with a specialty in family practice and psychiatry. "This crisis has changed my life," Neisha shares, "creating an upheaval in the way we practice medicine, see patients, and manage our own risk and that of our family members. Our role as providers has expanded to include a community at large."

Neisha recently submitted her research theory to the National Institute of Health, stating that "embracing, expressing and acknowledging our inner geek and fandom passions is a credible source of support and reflection for analyzing and establishing positive self identity." Talk about a superwoman!

Neisha has been hosting a weekly "Navigating COVID19" live chat and teaching strategies for decompression and stress. Look for a virtual fundraising gala soon to support charities that are funding families who have lost their incomes, vendors, small businesses, and healthcare workers in need. https://diverselygeek.org/

John Smigle

What do you do when you're working from home and your computer suddenly dies? You call Legion M superhero John Smigle, of course! Our technology is more important now than ever, with the way we stay informed on the latest news, with more folks working from home, and with our need to connect virtually with our loved ones that we cannot see in person. And former US Army combat medic John Smigle will get your computer up and running with this important side hustle. When he's not saving the world with technology, John is working for his nonprofit GAPS: Gifted And Physically Disabled Scouts. And as if that isn't enough, John is also a super dad to five incredible children.

Ricky Hartung

Ricky is a USPS window clerk, and while he doesn't actually bathe on the clock, he does use a shower curtain for the protection of himself and his customers while selling stamps and delivering packages to folks in need. A veteran of the US Air Force and step dad to three girls, Ricky is a simple man who hopes to one day own a Filipino food truck.

For a chance to be featured, submit the form below and tell us YOUR story. Together, we are stronger. WE ARE LEGION M!

Legion M Community Superheroes — Are You One Of Them?