On war, being a caregiver to a wounded husband at twenty-one, self-care, waking up to trauma, learning to like yourself, and the healing magic of friendship
What an incredible story, and also interview. In so many ways, always and especially now with the unbelievable vet benefits cuts in US, those who fought wars are merely discarded, shunted aside, along with the needs of their families. My best friend from h.s. decided to do something about it when her son-in-law returned to US after 2 tours in Iraq as a marine. Denise's daughter and children were having a horrible time dealing with his PTSD and TBI. Her poor son-in-law was a wreck, and it was heavily affecting his wife and children. After some time, Denise got busy. She was a good organizer, had founded Ohio Ballet Theatre (then about 15 yrs old) and decided to form an organization, Hearts of Patriots. She wrote a ballet, choreographed and cast it, about her daughter and son-in-laws situation. It was performed 3 times. She later wrote a documentary and produced it (it won honors at Cleveland Film Fest) and became an Ohio person of the year--Hearts of Patriots helps the FAMILIES of spouses gone to war and returned home. As the mental health of those family members can be heavily affected by fathers or mothers with brain injuries. She felt the families were ignored and suffered in silence, almost as is written here. Her organization is run by her and her daughter, and has helped many many vets and families. Thank you for this, and Karie, for a meaningful interview. ALIVE
That's beautiful, Jeanine! As someone with brain injury, I know well how much having advocates can change your life. Your friend sounds incredible! And I'm glad you enjoyed the interview!
It was great, and so importantly addresses issues of brain health and also the need to understand and care for military persons, even after the fighting’s done.
Karie, I appreciate you sharing your story. I hope that your book reaches those who have endured a similar journey as yours so that they do not feel they are so alone. Take good care of yourself. ALIVE
Really thought provoking interview. Thank you very much.
ALIVE
Thank you for sharing your story, Karie
Glad you enjoyed it, Hilary!
What an incredible story, and also interview. In so many ways, always and especially now with the unbelievable vet benefits cuts in US, those who fought wars are merely discarded, shunted aside, along with the needs of their families. My best friend from h.s. decided to do something about it when her son-in-law returned to US after 2 tours in Iraq as a marine. Denise's daughter and children were having a horrible time dealing with his PTSD and TBI. Her poor son-in-law was a wreck, and it was heavily affecting his wife and children. After some time, Denise got busy. She was a good organizer, had founded Ohio Ballet Theatre (then about 15 yrs old) and decided to form an organization, Hearts of Patriots. She wrote a ballet, choreographed and cast it, about her daughter and son-in-laws situation. It was performed 3 times. She later wrote a documentary and produced it (it won honors at Cleveland Film Fest) and became an Ohio person of the year--Hearts of Patriots helps the FAMILIES of spouses gone to war and returned home. As the mental health of those family members can be heavily affected by fathers or mothers with brain injuries. She felt the families were ignored and suffered in silence, almost as is written here. Her organization is run by her and her daughter, and has helped many many vets and families. Thank you for this, and Karie, for a meaningful interview. ALIVE
That's beautiful, Jeanine! As someone with brain injury, I know well how much having advocates can change your life. Your friend sounds incredible! And I'm glad you enjoyed the interview!
It was great, and so importantly addresses issues of brain health and also the need to understand and care for military persons, even after the fighting’s done.
Absolutely!! ❤️
This is such an important perspective that we all need to hear more.
ALIVE
I agree! I'm glad you enjoyed the interview, Golden!
Her story sound so important for young military wives but also anyone who is growing up with trauma. Can’t wait to read it. ALIVE.
So true! Happy you enjoyed the interview, Toni!
Thought-provoking and beautiful thank you
ALIVE
Oh, thank you, Rebekah! So happy you enjoyed the interview!
Wow - thank you for sharing your very personal experiences. I appreciate your frank honesty. Sending hugs!
Thank you so much, Deanna. <3
I'm happy you enjoyed the interview, Deanna!
Very moving piece. Thank you.
So glad you enjoyed it, Ruth!
Thank you.
You're welcome. I'm happy you enjoyed the interview!
Oh my gosh that cover! It perfectly encapsulates this convergence of ideas. Thank you for sharing, Karie.
ALIVE
Isn’t the cover gorgeous! Glad you enjoyed the interview, Marissa!
Karie, I appreciate you sharing your story. I hope that your book reaches those who have endured a similar journey as yours so that they do not feel they are so alone. Take good care of yourself. ALIVE
So happy you enjoyed the interview, Mary. And I share your wishes for Karie! 🌸