Veteran/Writer uses Comic Books to Achieve his Dreams
(IMP-Written By Doc Edwards)- Most of us can say that we have read a comic book in our lifetime. Some more than others. As is the case for www.irregularmischief.com owner Spike Bowan. Ever since he was a child, he has always found the world of Super Heroes and Super Villains, to be a refuge of inspiration and solace. Thus began his love of Fiction writing as well. “I just love a good story. Don’t you?” he retorts.
“Comic books are how I learned to read. I mean, don’t get me wrong; school taught me how, but the actual enjoyment of reading came from the comic books. My 6 year old son and I practice reading together with comic books all the time.” He says to me on the phone. After a long career in the U.S. Military, serving both as an Ammunition Specialist in the Army Reserves, then later as a FMF Hospital Corpsman attached to the Marines; Spike never lost his love of the monthly issues from big name publishers like DC, Marvel, Dark Horse, Image etc…
After his time in the service, Spike had a little trouble adjusting to the civilian world. “I come home to Pittsburgh to find that I have no clue what I was supposed to do with my life! Where do I go from here? I figured, stick with what you know.” he says talking about Emergency Medicine. Since there was no reciprocity for military Medics into the Civilian world, Spike had to go to school all over again to become a Paramedic. He was able to find some piece of mind by writing Fiction Novels as well.
Working a Hodge podge of civilian jobs in Retail Management and Law Enforcement while going to school, Spike never really settled in. Once Certified, Spike began running on the ambulances as a Paramedic for several years. Until a crippling shoulder injury ended his time on the ambulance as an Emergency Paramedic.
“It felt like ‘Chewbacca’ himself ripped my arm right out of it’s socket.” he states talking about his shoulder injury. No longer able to lift heavy stretchers with patients because of constant arm dislocations, Spike focused on writing. Now published, the Creator of the Fiction Saga “War in the Backyard” has sold print and electronic versions of his books on 5 different continents. He is even creating a “War In The Backyard” Comic Book with Illustrator Taylor Cottingham (I Am Michael Watcher)
Paying the bills by writing blogs for a Tactical Firearm equipment company, Spike has had one goal in mind since he was a kid. He wants to open up a comic book store. “I always wanted to open one. It used to be you could go just about anywhere and get a comic book. Now, with so few retailers left, I have to drive 10-15 miles away just to get a comic. I want to build a future for my family. A place where parents, kids, fan persons and Uber Geeks can all come to.”
It would seem that financing is near impossible though for the #ProffesionalGeek, a title he is proud to claim. “Most grants and venture capital for veterans is geared toward technology and agriculture. Not retail.” He says sadly. With his wife and Partner by his side at the helm, they are constantly working towards making this dream a reality. “We have had long nights of research, and planning. Making sure that all our ducks are in a row.” he says. I have been denied financing by some possible investors for the sheer fact that I am a Veteran. With all other financial resources exhausted, Spike has started a group funding campaign.
CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO SPIKES GO FUND ME
His Go Fund Me campaign is up and running with several donations already, his modest Goal of $20,000 is not that far fetched. “I have found the perfect location!” He exclaims. “Great vehicle and pedestrian traffic, a great neighborhood with a fairly young populace. One tour of the place and I knew, this is it! This is where my store is going to be! I can do this!” It would seem to some that his 20K goal is really low, to start a business. “Not if you build the fixtures and displays yourself. I can recycle and reuse lumber. All it takes is blood, sweat, tears and determination.” he says.
I am proud to say that I am friends with Spike. He is a Good man, a Great Father and Husband, and a true honorable Veteran. I’ll see you at the next convention Spike! Bravo Zulu Shipmate!