Norberto "Norbie" Lara had big plans for his future — then a rocket-propelled grenade changed everything. Suddenly, Norbie was one of over 300,000 veterans who have returned from war feeling alone — isolated from family and friends because of their war experiences. Fortunately, Norbie found the support he needed. "WWP gave me my life back." Hear more of Norbie's inspiring story.
You can help give wounded veterans the assistance they need and deserve by supporting WWP with your gift of $50, $75, $100, or more today.
| | Dear caring friend,
Your heart is sure to fill with emotion as you learn about the injured warriors and their families who have been impacted by the realities of war and supported by Wounded Warrior Project™ (WWP) programs. The assistance and healing provided through WWP is only made possible with the help of friends like you.
While recent events in the news may lead some Americans to think that fewer wounded veterans are in need of our assistance, you and I know that the numbers are actually increasing from Afghanistan. As a WWP supporter, you realize that your partnership, your appreciation, and your respect for veterans who made incredible sacrifices on the battlefield are crucially needed now.
You have my deepest thanks for your commitment to these brave service members. I hope these stories inspire you to build on your record of support with an urgently needed gift today.
Saluting our troops — and you,
Steven Nardizzi
Executive Director
Wounded Warrior Project
Troops' Brain Injuries Undercounted
The official U.S. count for physically wounded service members from Iraq and Afghanistan is over 47,409. But what this fails to include is the thousands of servicemen and women who suffered blast-related concussions. If not given time to heal before a second injury occurs, these can lead to permanent damage. In the past, when it came to dealing with mild traumatic brain injuries (TBI), "people were pretty cavalier going in (to the wars): 'Get your bell rung, it's no big deal.' There's been a change in that attitude," states Pentagon health official, Michael Kilpatrick.
Many veterans suffer from various degrees of TBI's — talking and interacting with other veterans who understand their experiences makes a big difference. The need for Wounded Warrior Project programs is greater than ever. |
Injured Heroes Learn to Live Again Through WWP Programs
A Fallen Hero's Mother Speaks for Her Son
Mary Tallouzi's son, Daniel, died a little over two years after he suffered a brain injury from a mortar attack in Iraq. In his honor, she helps remind citizens about the sacrifice warriors make while serving our country. When Mary received an invitation to share her story with a group of Arizona students, it was her chance to express the reality of what service members and their families face.
The students, who were not much younger than those who serve in the military, were captivated by the story. "This was eye-opening," said one student whose sister served nine years in the Navy. Most did not know that our troops are serving seven to nine tours of duty, which is more than any other time in our nation's history. Based on the number of questions and a steadied student body, she knew she achieved her goal of instilling respect for those who sacrificed so much. |
Warriors Heal by Reaching Out to Others in Need
 | Courtesy of newsjournalonline.com | Felix Garcia III felt isolated after returning from Iraq with severe spine and neck injuries and a traumatic brain injury (TBI). He later found the support he needed through Wounded Warrior Project. "These people have a better understanding about what you're going through. It's great to have someone you can talk about problems with," said Felix. Through WWP, he is able to be around others with similar experiences, which helps promote the healing process. Learn more about Felix's experiences and the programs you provide through Wounded Warrior Project. |
Dismount and Dive In
| Courtesy of nbcmiami.com | |
Clorox Proudly Supports Injured Warriors
| The Clorox Company is committed to helping injured warriors. The company deeply respects the sacrifices warriors and their families make and thinks it is important to support them when they return home from service. The company is inspired by Wounded Warrior Project and proudly supports wounded service members through this great organization.
Recently, Clorox engaged in the WWP Believe in Heroes® campaign to raise awareness for the enormous sacrifices made by our newest generation of wounded veterans. Consumers across the country heard the message loud and clear, through Clorox's rebranding of JTG Daugherty Racing's No. 47 Toyota Camry and reminders on coupons and displays in stores. Clorox's commitment extends beyond spreading the word about injured warriors' needs. The company reaches out and employs hundreds of veterans. The skills these veterans learned in the military have become a vital part of Clorox's success.
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