A recent conversation with JC went like this:
JC: I'm OK.
Me: Umm...
JC: Before I tell you this; I'm OK.
Me: Just tell me, damn it.
JC: Our truck blew up.
Me: Oh, F*@K!!
No matter how hard you pray, it's almost inevitable that something is going to go wrong. They don't call it "war" just for shits and giggles.
So, here's the deal. JC wasn't in the truck. He was covering someones leave and didn't go out on a mission with his usual crew. They drove over an IED and their MRAP blew up. If they had been in another vehicle; I don't think they all would have survived.
The men in their truck are all OK; depending on your definition of "ok". However, one of them flew home (not home home; Ft. Drum home) after being diagnosed with PTSD earlier this week. [Another got sent to Ft. Bragg for burns sustained in the explosion.] Saturday morning I'll be going up to see him. I love these guys. They.are.family. Yep, it's a long drive up there and back; but I'd do it for each of them ANYTIME.
If any of you have advice or suggestions on how I can best help someone with PTSD, I'm all ears. I'd like to hear anything you have to say. All I can think to do for him is to BE THERE. Just be there and listen.
And, I leave you with a request. Hug your family extra tight tonight...mmkay?
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So scary, I am so sorry! I'm praying for them and their families and loved ones.
ReplyDeleteBe there is all you can do, sometimes words aren't needed. My thoughts go out to you - being a retired military wife I understand....you hold your breath and count down everyday until your loved one comes home
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear this. You have my thoughts & prayers!
ReplyDeleteOh sweetheart, I'm so sorry to hear this! Prayers going out for them and you tonight!
ReplyDeleteI don't have any advice, but my thoughts are with you all.
ReplyDeleteOh goodness, I'm so sorry hun. I'll be thinking of them. xoxo
ReplyDeletePaws crossed for them!
ReplyDeleteKisses and hugs
Lorenza
:(
ReplyDeletesaying prayers and thinking of you.
war sucks.
that is so scary. i don't even know how I would feel.
ReplyDeletei hope the military is taking his ptsd seriously. it's only recently that the hospitals have really started to consider it something with lasting physical as well as mental complications. he needs to be his own advocate... if he's NOT ok, speak up and say that. all too often they get the guys a little bit of counseling and send them back.
Oh my goodness! Scary indeed. I really don't know what to say other than I'm sending good vibes your way and a hug.
ReplyDeleteThat's very sad. I really don't much about PTSD to give any advice. But I do know that prayer works!
ReplyDeleteHave a safe trip.
our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Riley and Star.
:( I am sorry for his friends! I am also happy to hear Josh is safe!
ReplyDeleteSo glad he is okay. Praying the other two will be okay as well.
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers are headed to you, your brother and his "brothers".
ReplyDeletexoxo
Beth, Dory and Bilbo
Our son was in Afghanistan 3 years ago with his unit from Fort Drum. He's been out of the army for about a year and a half now. The VA seems to be taking PTSD more seriously now than with the Viet Nam veterans, which is very good. I recommend the Fort Drum Inn on the base, but the soldier has to make the reservations. God bless you both.
ReplyDeleteAs for dealing with someone with PTSD, this would probably be better handled in email. If you go to my blog, I'll respond to your email. I don't have any magic solutions, just some experience.
Holy shit! That is soooooo scary, Cole and I can't imagine how thankful you're feeling that your bro wasn't in that truck. Thank GOD the men survived. It's so wonderful that you're going to visit your friend in the hospital.
ReplyDeleteJustine :o )
I know a tiny bit about PTSD from personal experience. I guess it's a bit late now, but let him know that you're there to listen if he wants to talk. Don't push him, and admit that you know you will never be able to understand what he's experienced. IAVA has some good guides etc on welcoming veterans home, which you may find useful.
ReplyDelete