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| A Homemade Quilt |
As soon as a wounded soldier is taken off of the helicopter on arrival to the FST, he is taken to the shakeout shed. Here, triage is done, and all clothing is cut off. After treatment, most are evacuated to Bagram Air Field, followed by Landstuhl, Germany, and then Walter Reed in the States. All of his clothing and personal effects will still be in Afghanistan.
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| Another Gift of Love and Support |
We have a terrific supply of shirts, sweatpants, socks, slippers, underwear, etc. that have been donated by patriotic citizens of the US who want to support our wounded heroes. Right before they get on the helicopter to leave us, they are dressed comfortably. They are given a toiletry kit made of donated items. They will also receive a blanket or quilt, usually homemade. Many of these quilts come with a personal letter from the maker thanking the serviceman for his service and wishing him a speedy recovery. What a terrific way to express one's gratitude! These quilts exude love!
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| Sewn on a Handmade Quilt |
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| Letter Sent with a Quilt |
The majority of the clothing and toiletry items are sent to us by the Landstuhl Hospital Care Project, a non-profit group from Virginia. These folks are in constant contact with the hospital in Landstuhl, and the deployed medical units in Afghanistan and Iraq. When supplies of a particular item are low, they post it on their website, and citizens may donate them, or send money for the purchase of the needed supplies.
People are always wanting to send "care packages" to me and others in my unit. While we certainly appreciate the support, we really do not need anything that is not provided for us already. Frankly, sometimes items that people back home have purchased for us and lovingly sent here go unused. If you would REALLY like to help, I strongly suggest that you go to the LHCP website, at:
www.landstuhlhospitalcareproject.org
From the homepage, click on "how to help." This will take you to a page that lists specific items that are urgently needed. You can also make a monetary donation. Believe me, you will be making a difference in the life of a wounded soldier!
The views expressed in this blog are those of the author only, and not necessarily of the US Army or the US Government. None of the information given is classified in nature.
My name is Dayna Seguin and I am in the Duke University Nurse Anesthesia Program’s Class of 2011. As you know, several of the students in our program and faculty have been following your blog and we decided to start a charity donation as a result of your post about the Landstuhl Hospital Care Project. You inspired us to raise $420 for this wonderful and worthwhile cause. We understand that the military is a big reason why CRNAs exist and we are hoping for you and every soldier’s safe return home. Thank-you for introducing us to this organization and all the best in the New Year!
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