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February 2025
 
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Ele Bruning: A Navy Family's Journey with the Exceptional Family Member Program

two people standing in front of a tree smiling

 

Ezra Mikaele “Ele” Bruning, an 18-year-old Navy child, has been a part of the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) since he was four years old. Ele suffers from Hydrocephalus and neurodevelopmental delays, but his positive attitude and love for life shine through in everything he does. His mother, Jessica Siuila Manuleleua - Bruning, a Navy spouse, shares how EFMP has played an integral role in supporting their family. The program has not only helped them navigate medical systems and provided essential resources but also offered countless opportunities to participate in events, activities, and venues that they otherwise might not have been able to afford. Jessica and her husband, AE2 Erik Bruning, have six boys, with Ele being their third. The family homeschools and enjoys living in the Hampton Roads area, especially the local beaches and the strong Navy community support they receive.


EFMP has been a crucial part of their lives, offering opportunities for the family to attend various special events together. These activities are often executed through in-kind sponsorship agreements with local organizations and are tailored to meet the needs of exceptional family members like Ele. Jessica mentions that many of these experiences are costly, but EFMP makes them accessible, allowing their family to enjoy fun, fulfilling activities. Ele’s memories include attending a special kids’ event at Kings Dominion, where he had a great time, however, his favorite experience was indoor skydiving at iFLY. “Flying in the air at iFLY was amazing. I loved it and I want to go back!” Ele describes the sensation as something he’ll never forget. The thrill of floating in the air was a powerful and joyful moment for him, and he is looking forward to the next opportunity to relive that exciting experience. While Ele sometimes feels intimidated by crowds due to his medical condition, participating in smaller groups with children in similar situations has been incredibly motivating for him.


Another memorable experience was when Ele’s family attended the International Tattoo rehearsal, where Jessica performed Polynesian dance and shared her talents with her family. Jessica was thrilled that she could perform for her family and bring them all along for free. Additionally, the Bruning family enjoys attending the annual NAS Oceana Air Show, where EFMP provides a private chalet for families with special needs during the practice show on Friday.


Ele also has a deep passion for running and participates in almost all Navy MWR run events in the Hampton Roads area, including 5Ks and 10Ks. His love for running on the beach truly brings him joy. He is also an avid writer and has been journaling daily since 2021. His journals reflect his day-to-day life, his feelings, and his accomplishments. While he was initially excited about the prospect of driving, he was recently informed that his limited vision will prevent him from obtaining a driver’s license. 


Despite the challenges, Ele remains a strong, determined, and positive young man. His medical condition has not stopped him from pursuing his passions, whether it's running, writing, or spending time with his family. With the ongoing support of his family and EFMP, Ele continues his journey and looks forward to new experiences.


The Brunning family is incredibly grateful for the support they’ve received from the Navy, EFMP and MWR. Even after AE2 Erik Bruning’s retires, Ele will continue to receive lifelong medical care. Ele especially wants to thank EFMP and iFLY for giving him the chance to experience floating in the air, and he looks forward to many more opportunities in the future.

 

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Donuts & Deadlifts
 

 
NNSY - February 7
Stop by Callaghan Fitness Center between 10 AM and 5 PM on Friday, February 7 to take on MWR's deadlift challenge and get a free donut! Overall male and female awards will be given out. Register at Callaghan Fitness Center.


 
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Ski/Snowboard Trip
 

 
NAVSTA Norfolk - February 8
Enjoy a day on the slopes of Massanutten Ski Resort with MWR on Saturday, February 9. A shuttle will depart from Bldg. C-9 at 6 AM. This trip is open to patrons ages 13 and older. Registration is required.


 
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Pour Your Heart Out: Acrylic Pour Painting Class
 

 
NSA - HR Portsmouth - February 8
Join MWR at River's Edge Community Center on Saturday, February 8 from 10 AM to 1 PM for a beginner's pour painting class. All supplies will be provided and there will be light refreshments. Registration is required.


 
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Valentine's Day Ball
 

 
NAS Oceana - February 8
Dance the night away at MWR's Valentine's Day Ball on Saturday, February 8 from 6 to 8 PM at the O Club. Registration is required by Thursday, February 6. Seating is limited, so get your ticket today!


 
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Run and Plunge
 

 
JEB Fort Story - February 12
Run with MWR for the Run and Plunge on Wednesday, February 12 from 10 AM to noon at the Fitness Center. There will be a two-mile run followed by a plunge in the ocean. Afterwards, enjoy hot cocoa, tea, coffee and Danishes. Registration is required.


 
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For the Love of Spin Aerobathon
 

 
NNSY - February 13
MWR is hosting a Spin Aerobathon on Thursday, February 13 at Callaghan Fitness Center. There will be two extreme 90-minute sessions, from 11:15 AM to 12:45 PM and 4:40 to 6:10 PM. Dress in red and stay for the whole time to receive a sweet treat! Registration is required.


 
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Sewing 101 - Heart Pillows
 

 
JEB Little Creek - February 13
Learn how to sew with MWR on Thursday, February 13 from 5 to 7 PM at the Library. We will be making heart pillows for Valentine's Day. Registration is required.


 
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Prep with MWR
 

 
NAVSTA Norfolk - February 13
Learn healthy cooking with MWR on Thursday, February 13 from 5 to 8 PM at Vista Point. Learn how to make meals using only one pan and about different macros to help you on your fitness journey. Registration is required.


 
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Valentine Sip & Savor
 

 
NAVSTA Norfolk - February 13
Celebrate Valentine's Day with MWR on Thursday, February 13 from 5 to 7:30 PM at Vista Point. There will be a cocktail hour, hor's doeuvres and a wine tasting given by a sommelier. The cost to participate is $35 per person.


 
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Workout in Red
 

 
Cheatham Annex - February 14
Celebrate Valentine's Day with MWR by wearing red when you go to work out at Cheatham Annex Gym from 5 AM to 8 PM.


 
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We Heart Our Customers: Row for Roses
 

 
NSA HR - Northwest - February 14
Stop by the Fitness Center to take on MWR's rowing challenge on Friday, February 14 from 7 AM to 12:30 PM. Row a minimum of 6,000 meters to receive a half dozen roses.


 
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For the Love of Science
 

 
JEB Fort Story - February 14
Show your love for science with MWR on Friday, February 14 from 4 to 5 PM at One Stop. Children age five to 12 can enjoy STEAM experiments. Registration is required.


 
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Love Strikes
 

 
WPNSTA Yorktown - February 14
Take your sweetheart bowling with MWR on Friday, February 14 from 4 to 7 PM at Twin Pin Bowling Center. Every couple that comes in will be able to bowl for two hours for $20, including shoe rental. Refreshments will be available.


 
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Squish-tastic Valentine's Day Paint Party
 

 
JEB Fort Story - February 15
MWR is hosting a paint party starring Squishmallows on Saturday, February 15 at 2 PM inside One Stop. Each artist will get a mini Squishmallow and will paint a portrait of it. This event is free and open to children ages five to 12. Registration is required.


 
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Free Throw & 3-Point Shootout
 

 
NSA HR - Headquarters - February 21
Show off your hoop skills at MWR's free throw and 3-point shootout on Friday, February 21 from 11 AM to 1 PM at NH-30 Fitness Center. This event is eligible for Captain's Cup points.


 
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Washington Wizards Basketball Game Trip
 

 
NAVSTA Norfolk - February 21
Get your tickets now to go see the Washington Wizards play with MWR on Friday, February 21. A shuttle will depart from Main Gate Movies 10 to take patrons to the game. Tickets will be $135 for active duty and $150 for all others.


 
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Board and Brush - Resin Class
 

 
JEB Little Creek - February 22
MWR is hosting a resin class on Saturday, February 22 at One Stop. There will be a session at 11 AM and a session at 2:30 PM. The cost to participate is $26 per person. Registration is required.


 
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Cozy Couples Sip and Paint
 

 
JEB Fort Story - February 22
Enjoy a date night at the couple's paint and sip hosted by MWR on Saturday, February 22 at 4:30 PM at One Stop. Couples will be painting a portrait of their partner to take home. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is required.


 
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Ski/Snowboard Trip
 

 
NAVSTA Norfolk - February 23
MWR is hosting a trip to Massanutten Ski Resort on Sunday, February 23. A shuttle will depart from Bldg. C-9 at 6 AM. This trip is open to all ages 13 and older. Registration is required.


 
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Lunch and Learn - Healthy Cooking Demonstration
 

 
NSA HR - Portsmouth - February 25
Learn how to prepare healthy meals with MWR on Tuesday, February 25 from 10 AM to noon at Riverview Fitness Center. Bring your lunch and learn strategies to plan for weekly meals with a registered dietician.


 
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Captain's Cup Wiffleball Home Run Derby
 

 
Dam Neck - February 25
Hit it out of the park at the wiffleball home run derby hosted by MWR on Tuesday, February 25 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Dam Neck Gym.


 
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