Twenty seven years ago, I became a big sister, a title I wore with great pride. Climbing trees, face painting with watercolors, creepy-crawlie baking and endlessly scaring Mom, helping with homework, laughing at Ray Stevens' on VHS, and, of course, ceaseless watching of the Home Alone movies.
Mike taught me far more than I tried to teach him. And though he's been gone for a few years now, I continue to learn from his experiences, passions, and struggles. His deployment and return to civilian life was a challenge. He was so strong and brave, but incredibly private.
Too many of our brave service men and women battle far more upon their return home. The adjustment, lack of job opportunities, emotional and mental anguish and toil, the struggle to relate to those around them, etc. Even less acknowledged, the families of our precious veterans suffer emotionally and physically along with their loved one, as they try support and heal together.
I proudly donated to the Wounded Warriors Project in memory of my Mike on his 27th birthday. I hope to see the day when the stigma of seeking help is eradicated, and all the mental and emotional needs of our veterans and their families are supported.
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