my latest editorial printed today on veteran caregivers

[w8liftinglady]

http://www.thedailylight.com/articles/2010/12/29/opinion/doc4d1b7fd503651420284696.txt

As we enter our second decade of war, a group of heroes remain hidden from public view.

The number of caregivers for wounded veterans continues to grow. Ninety-six percent of the time a spouse or parent of the injured troop becomes responsible. More than 40 percent of wounded veterans who need caregivers are between the ages of 18 and 54. One in four of the youngest wounded veterans are cared for by parents who will soon need care themselves as they age.

With this in mind, here are some resources for those nursing their loved ones.

The National Resource Directory is a website put out by the federal government to help direct caregivers find resources. Their website is:

http://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/family_and_caregiver_support/caregiver_support

The resources on this site will help you qualify for assistance to care for a wounded veteran, obtain medical equipment, find support groups or arrange respite and hospice care.

If you are caring for a wounded veteran or know someone who is, please take a few minutes to find out what help is available. You deserve the gratitude of a grateful nation, too.

[phasma ex machina]

1. Vets wounded in combat tend to take it out on those closest - VA nurses. nt