By Debbie Gregory.
The death of a child is the most devastating loss. Ever. You mourn not only the loss of life, but also the loss of their potential and their future. Your life is forever changed. But sometimes that loss can be the catalyst to set into motion actions that honor the memory of your child.
That is exactly what Howard and Jean Somers did. Following the suicide of their son, CA Army National Guard Veteran Daniel Somers, they channeled their grief into a call to action, founding Operation Engage America (OEA).
When Daniel transitioned back to civilian life after serving in the Iraq war, he was suffering from Post Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Gulf War Syndrome. He was in constant pain, both mentally and physically, and found significant obstacles to seeking care for himself.
Operation Engage America is Howard and Jean’s mission to ensure that no other Veteran or family suffers as they have. They are now armed with information and resources that they want to share in an attempt to reduce the alarming suicide statistics for those suffering with PTSD and TBI
With some 46,000 volunteer organizations dedicated to helping those who serve, past and present, as well as their families, the most important job is getting the right information and resources to those who need them. To that end, on the 20th of June, as part of PTSD Awareness month, OEA will have their second annual OEA community event, currently held in San Diego and Des Moines. It is their hope that this grassroots event will begin to spread to communities throughout the U.S.
Here is your opportunity to join the effort. As an attendee, you could be the resource that saves the life of a Veteran. If you are an organization whose mission is to help Veterans and their families, click here. For more information about OEA, visit them at http://operation-engage-america.org/index.html.
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Military Connection: Operation Engage America Holds 2nd Annual Community Event: By Debbie Gregory
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