My name is Andrew Gibson. I am a 100% service-connected disabled veteran.
Like many veterans, I face daily challenges that make simple tasks more difficult than they should be. There are times when basic things, getting items I need, handling reminders, or managing light household chores, become overwhelming.
Service dogs provide tremendous support for many veterans, but they are not an option for everyone due to long waitlists, housing restrictions, allergies, and ongoing care costs.
That’s why I believe general-purpose humanoid robots, particularly Tesla’s Optimus, could become a valuable new tool for disabled veterans seeking greater independence.
What Optimus Could Offer Veterans
Tesla is preparing to start low-volume production of Optimus Gen 3 in summer 2026, with wider availability expected in 2027. The company’s long-term goal is to make these robots capable and affordable, with a target price eventually dropping toward $20,000 to $30,000 at high volume.
A humanoid robot like Optimus has the potential to assist with practical, everyday needs such as:
- Retrieving items when mobility or energy is low
- Providing medication or appointment reminders
- Helping with light household tasks
- Offering consistent, non-judgmental support without fatigue
This is not about replacing human connection or service animals. It is about adding a reliable, scalable option that can grow in capability as the technology improves.
My Plan: The Veterans Humanoid Assistance Program
I am working to create the Veterans Humanoid Assistance Program, a veteran-led initiative to help bring this technology to disabled veterans.
The plan is straightforward and phased:
- Form a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and assemble a small board of advisors
- Begin with a small pilot using currently available assistive technology to gather feedback from fellow veterans
- Apply for VA funding, especially the Specially Adapted Housing Assistive Technology (SAHAT) Grant, which supports innovative tools that help severely disabled veterans live more independently
- Prepare to acquire or lease early Optimus units or similar platforms once they become available to organizations in late 2026 or 2027
As the founder and a 100% disabled veteran, I plan to serve as Executive Director. Once initial funding is secured, I intend to draw a modest, reasonable salary so I can dedicate the necessary time to building and running the program.
Why This Matters
This effort is personal for me. My own experiences as a disabled veteran motivate me to turn challenges into something that might help others.
If you’re a fellow veteran, a family member, someone working in assistive technology or robotics, or simply a supporter who believes in this idea, I would welcome hearing from you.
You can reach me at:
gibson68w@gmail.com
Humanoid robots are moving from prototypes to reality faster than most expected. My hope is that disabled veterans can be part of that future in a meaningful way.
Thank you for reading.
Andrew Gibson
100% Disabled Veteran
Founder, Veterans Humanoid Assistance Program
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