Thanks for visiting my fundraising page- my biological father was a US Army veteran who served 1965-1969 and struggled with disabilities ever since. 
We only united 4 years ago, after years of my searching for him - as he was overseas when I was born and my birth mother had me placed in adoption as an infant. Meeting this special man brought so much joy, wisdom, and much needed healing for the both of us. We had a connection and ability to communicate that goes far beyond VA labels or disabilities and we shared as much precious time together as we could. To say it in his words, "we fit in all the good- here and there- as best we could". Sadly after months of trying so hard to advocate for his rights as a veteran and for his health care-
he died last week at the age of 63 on January 08, 2008.

My father cared greatly about all veterans, soldiers who never make it home, and all the soldiers coming home to this failing system, not a single conversation went by that he did not express his concern for them. In his memory and to honor him (and in honor of all veterans and soldiers) I am asking for donations to help the IAVA do their work to help soldiers and veterans, so that veterans will not have to endure suffering in a system like my bio- dad did all these years. Your donation can help IAVA to advocate for the proper respect and care for veterans.

The care we give our soldiers with mental illness is appalling, most staff are not trained to take care of soldiers with war related trauma issues (ptsd or mental health issues) which is inexcusable and makes the veterans symptoms even worse. Suicide and homeless rates for veterans is skyrocketing.  The waiting list for appointments at most VA Hospitals is pathetic. I have witnessed neglect, verbal total lack of respect to veterans, and men dying waiting for care while caring for my ill veteran father at a VA.

Please help me support Iraq And Afghanistan Veterans of America by making a donation. It's fast, easy, and secure.  
Whatever you can afford will help the IAVA do their work.

"Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is the nation's first and largest group dedicated to the Troops and Veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the civilian supporters of those Troops and Veterans. Through education, advocacy and community, IAVA strives to create a country which honors and cares for its newest generation of veterans and their families."

Click here to read more about the work that IAVA is doing> www.iava.org

Thanks so much for your support - and please don't forget to forward this donation page to any friends you think might be interested.

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