Six Months.
May 5th, 2011 § Leave a Comment
It’s been six months since my twin brother succumbed to the terrors of PTSD and took his own life. Time has become a whirlwind of unpredictable emotions, struggles, victories, pain and tears. But note, please, that there have been victories. In the wake of the single most devastating loss of my life, we have achieved victories. Toby was unable to fend off the pressures of PTSD because he chose to place his soldiers before himself. He thought he could handle the nightmares associated with his three tours in the Middle East, and dedicated his energy to helping the men and women who served along side him. He seemed incapable of placing himself before the needs of his military ‘family.’
In mourning his loss we contacted Karen Archipley of Archi’s Acres in hopes of directing donations to their amazing cause. A simple request for their mailing address was transformed into a memorial scholarship dedicated to helping soldiers and veterans. Karen and Colin of Archi’s Acres are a blessing to every man and woman seeking a new path in their post-military lives. In the weeks that followed my brothers death, this scholarship quickly collected over $5000 from family, friends and generous Americans. The victory is not the dollar amount. The victory is providing hope and success to veterans and soldiers. In January 2011 Archi’s Acres granted the first SSgt. Toby Stinson Scholarship. We’ve helped one, who helped us all, time to reach out to the rest.
Visit Archi’s Acres website and learn more about their efforts to aid in veterans successful re-integration to society, while bettering the community around them. Share what you learn with your friends and families. And if you’ve got a few extra bucks, please consider donating to the SSgt. Toby Stinson VSAT Scholarship. Meet Karen on Facebook to follow the latest news. Below you will find several links to articles applauding Karen and Colin’s efforts. God Bless America.
http://www.operation-transition.com/employment-info/back-to-the-land
http://www.rosebudmag.com/hydroponic-gardening/archi-acres-commercial-hydroponics-operation
http://seedstock.com/2011/04/15/archis-acres-veterans-sustainable-agriculture/
