Help a Warrior Out

Y'all, there are wounded warriors whose families need extra help this holiday season. I know it's very close to a done deal for most, but there's always time to send a gift card or just anonymously donate to Our Military Kids.

I just sent a gift card for the clothes one family requested for their children, plus two small toys that I hope will help alleviate the burden these children have suffered.

How often do you think about the families of those who come back from war with significant medical and psychological issues? We see and hear plenty about those heroes wounded in combat, and we're hearing more now about TBI and PTSD, which can be so much more difficult to identify as actual wartime injuries.

But really, think about the last time you considered what the families of these service members endure. The initial terror, the grief, the anger at what has happened. The relief that their warrior didn't die. During the harsh and emotionally complex journey to wellness and autonomy, the shame at fleeting thoughts that are natural but would be considered hurtful or even appalling if voiced. Even after the wounded are released, they face challenges, and their families bear the same burdens.

And consider the economy.

The families are heroes, too, often forgotten, usually ignored or expected to step up and deliver. There are support systems out there for these families, but they're not that easy to find, and there's not a lot they can do. Because the focus is (as it mostly should be) on the wounded warrior.

If you'd like to remind these families that their own sacrifices are not forgotten, that their current struggles are acknowledged, and that you'll do what you can to support them -- anonymously or otherwise -- think about giving. If you want to try to send a gift, e-mail me at snarkynavywife at gmail. I'll forward your e-mail to the coordinator. As I said, I sent a gift card, and I threw in a couple of toys. I couldn't afford a lot this year, but I did what I could.

If you'd just like to offer a donation to the program that helps these families all year, visit their website at Our Military Kids.