Independence Day and other patriotic holidays are a blast! Party time! For many. But for others, this “blast” propels them right back into the heat of battle. Physically and emotionally. How ironic and gut wrenching that the very soldiers who sacrificed so we could celebrate our freedom may be the ones who struggle most on…
DetailsIn the media frenzy following the horrendous Boston Marathon bombing, I was interviewed for a press release. Although not the world’s top expert on PTSD, I gladly offered a few thoughts I have learned from my own experience living with a veteran with PTSD, as well as what I have gleaned from others. Bombs, blasts,…
DetailsRecently I was catching up with another wife, whose husband also struggles with PTSD. After hearing her talk about the kids, her job, PTSD, and her husband, I asked point blank: “How are you doing?” Long pause. “How are YOU doing?” I asked again. She seemed a bit confused. Stunned. Here she was on a…
DetailsWhen I was first learning about PTSD, I was advised to be careful. “They are fragile,” I was told. Maybe. Maybe not. Certainly our veterans and military service members – and all those who battle PTSD – do not wish to be viewed as fragile! But are those who face the challenges of PTSD to…
DetailsWhen we attempt a daunting task and huge undertaking, such as writing a book to help others, sometimes it is the miracles along the way that keep us going. One such miracle just happened! The day after I signed on with the publisher for Love Our Vets: Restoring Hope for Veterans with PTSD, we…
DetailsHow often do you hear your vet spewing laments like “I’m all screwed up!” or more likely “I’m just all f-d up!” Self-abasing comments of worthlessness and hopelessness. Because of the horrific things they saw and did, many of our beloved warriors also feel they are “beyond redemption.” Whether with God or people. But…
DetailsFunny how living with our vets and PTSD can affect us too. And usually just when we seem to think we have it all together. HA! 🙂 This morning I was in “go” mode, on my way out for the day. On a roll and doing great! Getting ready to pull away from the curb…
DetailsDesperate for a vacation in Hawaii? Better, yet, how about a one way ticket?! (I’ll meet you there). 🙂 Loving and caring for others can take its toll on us, especially at certain times of the year when everything else seems so overwhelming! So how do we love our vets, and those around us,…
Details“I had PTSD but I got over it.” Wow! Really???!? That comment was made by someone in a prominent government position. How about this one: “You have PTSD…at least you weren’t wounded.” Ouch. More insensitive ignorant words from someone (believe it or not) in a veterans organization. How do we as loved ones help our…
DetailsWhat an honor to be written up as woman of the month…not sure I can live up to that, but thankful anyway. 🙂 Here is the article. Thank you, Michal Ann. Woman of the Month: She Turned Three Life Tragedies into Opportunities October 16, 2012 By Michal Ann McArthur Bend, OR If anyone has figured…
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