Personal Stories

Dan

As a member of the National Guard, I was deployed to Iraq and am proud to have served my country. In September of 2005, I was injured in South Baghdad when an IED exploded and flipped over my tank. We lost two soldiers that day and I'll never forget it.

I was diagnosed with a Traumatic Brain Injury as well as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Coming back home and being around my loved ones and my family and friends allowed me to heal a lot quicker than if I had been on my own. Had this program been available during the initial stages of my injury, it would have helped me deal with the nightmares I faced over and over again of seeing my friends die right in front of me.

I believe the Illinois Warrior Assistance Program can help other troops who need someone to talk to. With the hotline available day and night, we won't have to wait until an office opens up at 08:00 or on Monday morning. This a great opportunity for us, for our recovery and our transition back to everyday life.