Inspiration in Recovery: Long Island Teen’s Journey After Injury

A paralyzed teen from Long Island attributes his recovery to the legacy of a local fallen Navy SEAL.

Fincia Bohne, 16, from Bayshore, experienced a traumatic brain injury in 8th grade after an accidental fall during wrestling. He was thrown into a heating pipe, resulting in painful consequences for both him and his family.

“I couldn’t walk, I could barely talk, and I lost much of my vision… I had to focus on basic skills, like counting to ten,” Finn shared in a recent post.

During his struggle, Finn was homeschooled while confined to a wheelchair, learning to perform basic body functions again, including how to say “fireman.”

With the encouragement of a compassionate teacher, he visited the Michael P. Murphy Navy SEAL Museum in Saville after the 2022 accident.

“She knew I loved Navy SEALs, so I thought it would help inspire me,” Finn explained.

After two challenging years of recovery influenced by the story of Michael Murphy, a slain Navy hero from Patchogue, Finn took his first step with a cane last year and is aiming for further progress.

“If he could endure what he did, I knew I could push through my own situation,” Finn stated, referencing Murphy’s heroism during a tragic mission in Afghanistan.

“Finding your ‘why’ is essential,” Finn emphasized. “Once you have that reason, the means to reach your goals become much clearer.”

Never Give Up

Finn found deep inspiration at the museum, especially from his meeting with Michael Murphy’s father, Daniel. The story of his son, depicted in the film “Lone Survivor,” resonated with Finn, who learned of Michael’s unwavering spirit in the face of overwhelming odds.

“Never stop—that was part of Michael’s essence,” his father remarked.

These words struck a chord with Finn, motivating him immensely as he faced his own obstacles.

“They were in an impossible situation, yet they never gave up,” Finn reflected. “At the end, Michael sacrificed himself for his team.”

From that moment, he resolved to walk again, determinedly chasing his goal.

The Challenge Ahead

Finn now tackles intense physical therapy, spending up to ten hours each day in rehabilitation. Just standing for three minutes is a monumental achievement for him.

“I push myself hard, often for six hours at a time, six days a week,” he said. “I stick to it.” He also endures electrical stimulation therapy to help reconnect nerve pathways.

In a challenges-based workout named after Michael Murphy, Finn engages in a grueling routine: a mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, followed by another mile run.

“I used to be paralyzed and now I’m pushing myself fully,” he recounted. While the recovery is painful, it’s bittersweet as he regains his strength.

Throughout this journey, Murphy and former SEAL Chris Wyllie have supported Finn, often encouraging him during tough times.

“I try to visit at least once a month; they have been some of my biggest cheerleaders,” Finn expressed, recalling a race where Wyllie helped him in his wheelchair.

Recently, Finn surprised everyone by walking up the final stairs at a charity event, using the support of family and friends.

“When I hugged my family afterward, I realized I’d truly come so far,” he said, recounting how he began using a cane back in September and has since regained considerable control over his movements.

As a junior at Bayshore High, Finn continues to push himself—not just for his own recovery, but also in honor of Michael Murphy’s legacy.

“It’s about carrying on Michael’s spirit of service,” Daniel Murphy noted.

Facing New Challenges

During a recent event at the museum, Finn attempted the demanding “Murph Challenge,” a workout involving significant physical endurance.

Recognized with the Patience Award at a previous event, he was met with overwhelming support from the military and fitness communities.

“This was the culmination of my recovery, and I wanted to give it my all,” he remarked.

Looking ahead, Finn has aspirations of attending the US Naval Academy and ultimately qualifying for SEAL training.

Wyllie believes Finn has the potential to succeed, although he conceded there’s a long road ahead.

“I think Finn has what it takes; he just needs to keep pushing through,” Wyllie said.

Finn’s perspective on challenges has changed significantly: “After what I’ve been through, the training seems less daunting now,” he admitted.