Jennifer Suarez was determined to come out strong and not let anything stand in her way. Despite her battle with cancer, she continued on with her dream of being a part of the United States Marine Corps.
Curveball thrown her way
Everything seemed to be going well in Jennifer Suarez's life. She was recently married and was expecting her first baby in only four months, according to Stars and Stripes. Suarez had also accomplished her goal of becoming a Marine in the U.S. Armed Forces. Then out of nowhere a major curveball was thrown her way – she was tragically diagnosed with brain cancer.
Though hearing this news was a tough pill to swallow, through perseverance and strength, Suarez decided to fight hard and get her life back on track.
Inspiration to join the Marine Corps
Suarez decided she wanted to be a Marine in the fourth grade when her friend's dad spoke about his role as a Marine one day in class on Career Day, Stars and Stripes stated. Ever since then she had always had a passion for the military and ended up enlisting as soon as she could after high school.
At 17 she completed boot camp and then continued her education until she became a field wireman. Suarez was stationed in Okinawa, Japan for a couple of years before she got married and then settled down in Pendleton, California after becoming pregnant, according to Stars and Stripes.
Motivation to keep going
During the time of her first pregnancy, her health took a turn for the worse. One morning while enjoying breakfast with her husband, she suffered a seizure due to muscle spasms on the left side of her body. After immediately being escorted to the hospital, her brain was scanned, revealing an astrocytoma, a tumor in the brain tissues, the U.S. Department of State said. This news was devastating for not only her own life, but for her unborn baby's as well.
Her son Anthony was born prematurely with an emergency C-section, according to Stars and Stripes. Though Anthony was on the brink of death, he miraculously survived. With the motivation of her strong newborn son's survival, Suarez pushed through many challenging obstacles. Not only did she have to retire from the Corps because of her poor health, but she also experienced a divorce and had to face rehab and chemotherapy.
Back on top
Through it all, Suarez managed to come out strong and found herself right back where she wanted to be. After giving birth to her second child, the tumor shrunk, and her cancer was in remission. Five years later, Suarez re-enlisted in the military and was accepted, according to the U.S. Department of State. Because she worked hard to return to active duty, she was appointed as the commanding officer's driver and then promoted to sergeant shortly after.
In an article from Stars and Stripes, Col. Christian Wortman, commanding officer of The Basic School, said, "Sgt. Suarez has faced decisions and obstacles that many hope to never encounter yet she still rises above her challenges and continues to serve her family and the Corps to the best of her ability. Sgt. Suarez exemplifies the type of Marine all should strive to emulate with her attitude and determination. She truly lives our motto 'Semper Fidelis.'"
Suarez fought hard and came out on top and stronger than ever, despite the bumpy road along the way.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a difficult obstacle to overcome. But, it is possible take the reigns of your life and guide your way back to recovery through equine therapy. Horses may help you find happiness again.
Here's what you need to know about post-traumatic stress disorder and ways to heal through equine therapy.
What is post-traumatic stress disorder?
Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a psychiatric disorder that will affect 1 in 3 returning troops, according to PTSD Foundation of America. A person may experience PTSD after being involved in or witnessing a traumatic and life-changing event. Everyday occurrences can trigger PTSD. A startling event may cause sufferers to think they're back in a hostile combat zone and are under attack.
Some soldiers, but not all, may experience PTSD, according to PTSD Foundation of America. The chances of developing this disorder varies based on the intensity of the occurrence, how well you were able to react or handle the situation or the support you received after the initial traumatic experience. Some signs that indicate PTSD include nightmares of the event, being reminded of the event during certain situations or feeling negatively or fearful because of what happened.
If you are diagnosed with PTSD, there are ways to cope with this disorder and get better. One way is through horse therapy.
What is equine therapy?
Equine therapy is the interaction between a person and a horse. By caring for a horse, people who are dealing with issues like PTSD, are able to learn about themselves through each action they take to care for the horse like feeding them, giving them water, riding them or tacking them up, according to Everyday Health. People who have PTSD can finally start to feel calm and have more confidence in themselves because of these responsibilities and due to the animal's demeanor.
How can horses help heal veterans with PTSD?
Veterans who have PTSD may be able to relate to horses that also sometimes feel sensitive or scared of everyday occurrences, according to Everyday Health. Veterans who are handling horses for the first time may be stepping out of their comfort zone as well.
"By interacting with horses, people with PTSD will often see their own emotional state mirrored in the reactions of the horse which they are working," Manette Monroe, MD, MEd, an assistant dean for students and an assistant professor of pathology at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine in Orlando, told Everyday Health.
The symptoms of PTSD may not completely go away through horse therapy, however, they may subside. Participating in these exercises with the horses is therapeutic and can help to control anxiety and emotions that may otherwise feel out of control, the Denver Post mentioned.
Jeanne Springer, an equine specialist at the academy's Equestrian Center, told the Denver Post that people experiencing PTSD, "tend to isolate because they have learned to numb their emotions…The horses help them relax."
Horses are sensitive animals and though sometimes they don't always listen right away, this is a wonderful lesson veterans can learn, the Denver Post mentioned. Because horses respond to positive energy, whoever is taking the reigns must demonstrate a great deal of patience, discipline and a calm demeanor.
People remember loved ones who have served our country and fought for our freedom in different ways. Charlie Thompson commemorates and cherishes the memory of his son, Army Staff Sgt. Jacob Thompson, by handcrafting memorabilia. According to Panama City News Herald, Thompson began creating quilts almost eight years after Jacob passed away at the age of 26 while on a tour of duty in Iraq.
The memory of his son continues to live on with these quilts made out of cloth from Jacob's military uniform that Charlie received from the Army after his death. So far he has made two patchwork blankets in honor of Jacob's duties in the U.S. Army. Jacob enlisted in the Army as a high school student in the late '90s. The quilts exhibit camouflage print along with Jacob's portrait, his dog tags and the words "Army Strong."
In an article in the Panama City News Herald, Charlie Thompson said, "I have this desire to never forget Jacob… I want to see him as much as possible."
Thompson continues to be reminded of Jacob with many pieces of memorabilia placed throughout his homes in Minnesota, where he stays for a few months with his wife Barb and in Panama Beach City, where he resides most of the year. As of right now, the quilts are in the hands of Jacob's brothers, Jon and Jason. Thompson's hope is that these quilts will be admired and passed down to future generations, so that his son is remembered forever.
One of Thompson's quilts was featured in The Quilt Show 2016 hosted by Saint Andrew Bay Quit's Guild and held at Florida State University Panama City Holley Academic Center.
The military, as well as governments, businesses and hospitals, all greatly depend on cybersecurity. Confidential information stored on computers or shared through the Internet to other networks must be protected from unauthorized outside parties, according to the University of Maryland University College. Unfortunately, cyberattacks have been on the rise, with an abundance of hackers trying to get unlawful access to destruct or alter information. Because of this, there is a demand for cyber protection and jobs in this industry. However finding the best and most qualified person for this position is not easy, Military Times stated. This comes as an opportunity for military veterans, who may very well be the solution.
For those interested in pursuing this career, veterans now have the opportunity to receive free training. Eligible veterans can partake in a training program, sponsored by Solutionary, an Omaha Internet security firm. To be admitted into SANS CyberTalent Immersion Academy, promising candidates that may be the right fit for a future successful career in cybersecurity will be screened, according to SANS Institute. Once the screening is complete, the candidate can fill out an application, followed by a SANS CyberTalent Enhanced Assessment, an exam online that tests different skills and the proficiency pertaining to information about security. Following this assessment, the Admissions Committee will interview the candidate.
Once accepted, this intensive program lasts for a total of six weeks. Solutionary is sponsoring this program to offer the best training in the proper and necessary skills for veterans to have a successful career in cybersecurity. Before committing to this program, veterans are asked to work for the company, Solutionary, for two years.
Tails of Valor seeks to provide love and support to those who are in need of it the most: abandoned puppies and disabled military veterans. Finding the solution for these two big issues in America, Tails of Valor selflessly gives the opportunity for dogs to find a home and for veterans to be healed through therapeutic companionship. This nonprofit program, founded by Heather Lloyd, is fully dedicated to training rescued pups to become service canines. It also trains dogs to eventually be able to accompany disabled veterans living with physical injuries, traumatic brain injuries and post traumatic stress disorder, according to Critter Corral.
These dogs are taken in and trained by volunteers and trainers at a facility in Springfield Township, Pennsylvania, according to Stars and Stripes. The training program begins for puppies at the age of 8 to 14 weeks and lasts between a year to 16 months. Plenty of doggy treats are given out while commands are being taught and the pups are exposed to real-life, everyday situations that they will eventually deal with once fully trained. Because of this organization, dogs are able to learn how to provide protection, love and companionship. Every exercise the pups practice is correlated to a particular symptom that a veteran may experience.
Tails of Valor is changing the lives of people and animals. The dog that are trained are able to accomplish physical tasks to ensure an easier life for veterans who are in of help need. These furry friends are also able to provide emotional support for those suffering.
In an article from Stars and Stripes, Ray Rosenberger, a veteran who served in the Marines as a combat medical operator, described how his dog, Bella puts him at ease.
"When I'm having [PTSD] triggers, Bella will calm me down and bring me around," Rosenberger said. "A little puppy lick, or having someone to talk to, it gets me away from thinking about the war."
Psychological issues that military veterans experience can now be treated in a way that does not involve medicine but rather, a dog's company.
For a veteran to be a part of Tails of Valor, before applying to the program, he or she must provide proof of a disability that affects daily life and discharge papers, as well as a completion of inpatient rehab or a year since the injury occurred, Stars and Stripes mentioned. The candidate must also show he or she is a dog lover, through an evaluation that shows a happy relationship with a dog.
Senior Chief Petty Officer Edward Byers received the Medal of Honor at a ceremony that took place in the White House on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, according to USA Today.
Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator Byers is only the sixth Navy SEAL to ever receive a Medal of Honor, the highest honor you can receive according to USA Today. This award was presented by President Obama to this 36-year-old Navy Seal for his honorable actions and display of military valor during an operation in Afghanistan, according to Stars and Stripes.
Many details of the mission are classified. What is certain, though, is the heroism displayed during a mission in Dec. 2012. A group of Navy SEALS, a group that included Byers, rescued American aid worker Dr. Dilip Joseph, who was held hostage in a hideout by Taliban fighters.
In an article in Stars and Stripes, Rear Admiral Brian Losey, Commander Naval Special Warfare, stated, “Senior Chief Ed Byers’ actions on the battlefield reflect the highest ideals of our profession: bravery, selfless dedication to duty, and above all, the highest level of commitment to protect the lives of others and the freedom for which our nation stands.”
Byers, who has served 11 deployments overseas, demonstrated hard work while facing extreme measures to fight for the United States, according to Stars and Stripes. He has toured Afghanistan and Iraq and has been acknowledged for his good work. Byers has also been awarded with two Purple Hearts, two Combat Action Ribbons and the Bronze Star.
Byers dedicated his Medal of Honor to his friend, Petty Officer 1st Class Nicolas Checque (and his family), who sacrificed his life on the mission.
While many veterans across the country receive assistance from the VA to deal with a number of health care issues, one group has found a surprising lack of help with one type of medical problem. Those rendered infertile by the wounds inflicted during their service often find that they are prohibited from receiving assistance with in vitro fertilization.
In fact, this is because federal law bans the VA from providing access to in vitro treatments, and the high cost of such procedures – well into the five figures – may prevent some veterans from having children altogether, according to a report from the New York Times. The VA will pay for their sperm or eggs to be frozen prior to their deployment, but the former servicemembers must pay for the treatments in question out of pocket in many cases.
"At that time you're not thinking about kids," Sherman Gillums Jr., deputy executive director of Paralyzed Veterans of America, told the newspaper. "Having a kid is the least of your worries. You don't even know how your body is going to turn out."
Many organizations exist to help veterans cover health care costs when needed, so those affected by such issues may want to reach out and ask for help.
One of the biggest problems that many veterans may face when returning home from service is re-acclimating themselves to civilian life. Now, another organization exists to help them with that goal.
The group is called Recovery and Reintegration of Veterans and operates out of Ohio, according to a report from the Marysville News. Its focus is on helping former servicemembers with post-traumatic stress disorder or brain injuries better integrate back into society by assisting them in finding places to live, jobs, and crucial health care.
"We have a complete vision dedicated to services for veterans and not only know first-hand what it's like to be separating from the service and come out with skills very applicable to service to your country, but what it's like trying to get those skills to translate to the private sector," Rich Johnson, a veteran of the Air Force who set up the new organization, told the newspaper. "There are a lot of barriers to that. A lot of obstacles."
These kinds of efforts go a long way for many veterans, because not every wound they suffer during service is visible, and transitioning back to civilian life isn't always easy for a number of reasons.
Ruth Fairchild, a veteran of the Gulf War and the former State Junior Vice Commander of the Pennsylvania Department of Veterans of Foreign Wars, on Feb. 28, will speak at the 70th anniversary celebration for the VFW Post in Titusville, Pennsylvania, reported The Titusville Herald. Fairchild was the first female, statewide VFW commander and led all of the organization's Pennsylvania-based initiatives from 2012 to 2013.
She served as a combat medic in the U.S. Army from 1982 to 1994 and did multiple tours of duty in Asia and the Middle East, including Operation Desert Storm. Fairchild is the recipient of the Southwest Asia Service Medal, the Kuwait Liberation Medal and other commendations. She was honorably discharged with the rank of sergeant.
According to the U.S. General Accounting Office, over 40,000 female servicemembers served in Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield. During these conflicts, women filled a variety of frontline positions. They worked in mobile medical units and weapons-assembly groups and performed other support duties. Soon after American troops withdrew from the Persian Gulf, the Secretary of Defense permitted female servicemembers to fly combat aircraft.
In the years since Operation Desert Storm, which concluded in 1991, female ex-servicemembers have become fixtures in the VFW community, reported The Associated Press. A group of female veterans, in 2011, formed the first women's VFW post in Buffalo, New York. And, in 2014, Congress altered the organization's charter to recognize female veterans. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, there are almost 2 million women ex-servicemembers in the U.S.
"We didn't change our congressional charter to be politically correct," VFW National Commander John Stroud said in a statement. "We changed it because being an eligible servicemember or veteran is what's important to our great organization."
Since leaving the VFW in 2013, Fairchild has continued to advocate for female veterans, reported New Caste News.
Two hard-working Army Ranger veterans-turned-entrepreneurs joined forces to take on a new challenge: good fashion for a great cause.
It all started while Matthew Griffin was on duty. He visited factories located across from his station in Afghanistan, according to Men's Journal. While walking through one of the factories he noticed a flip-flop thong attached to a combat boot. That's when it dawned on him – he had a vision to create this exact product. After pairing up with veteran and friend, Donald Lee, the two (who both served tours in Afghanistan), created the company "Combat Flip Flops." This was just the start of what their business would turn into.
The two were inspired by similar circumstances. While serving in the U.S. Army, Griffin and Lee were exposed to people struggling. Even if people in these countries were hard workers, they had nowhere to use their creativity or earn money. The men decided to take it upon themselves to tackle these issues and make a change. They used their business to provide these people with job opportunities. Combat Flip Flops products are manufactured in the U.S. as well as in Bogota, Colombia and Afghanistan.
All products were designed to portray life in Afghanistan, from the Men's "AK-47" flip-flop featuring heat stamped poppies, cast bullet casings and a yellow leather to the Women's "Bombshell Dark" with straps of Afghan patterns and chrome grenade detailing.
Though their vision started with flip-flops, the merchandise has grown even more and now an array of clothing and accessories are available. On the website. each item has a short summary, explaining where it was made and what the proceeds from your purchase will be supporting. A portion of the funds for each accessory, like the "CFF Shemagh" scarf, made out of local materials and embroidered in Kabul, Afghanistan, are donated to a charity. The proceeds of this scarf in particular are donated to the Aid Afghanistan for Education Foundation, which allows women in Afghanistan to attend secondary school.
This dynamic duo, have come a long way since they first started. From making the flip-flops in Griffin's garage to being featured on a February episode of "Shark Tank," ABC's reality show that gives entrepreneurs a chance for success, these veterans have been changing people's lives one flip-flop at a time.