The following letter was originally published in The Herald, dated March 7, 2024:
Throughout my life, the threads of service and sacrifice are tightly woven. From a family entrenched in military tradition, to my own journey in the Air Force, the call to duty has always resonated deeply within me. Yet, it was during a time of vulnerability and unexpected hardship that I stumbled upon a lifeline that would redefine my understanding of support for veterans: Veterans Care Coordination (VCC). My path to VCC was unexpected, born out of necessity and the interconnectedness of military camaraderie. As a young recruit in the Air Force, I found myself thrust into a unique opportunity to reshape the perception of women in the military. Selected as one of the faces of a groundbreaking recruitment campaign, I embarked on a mission to inspire and inform the next generation of service members. However, life’s twists and turns often lead us down unforeseen paths, and the joy of service soon gave way to the responsibilities of family.
Balancing the demands after my military service with the needs of a growing family proved challenging, yet fulfilling. However, fate had other plans in store for me. A tragic accident left me grappling with the aftermath of brain trauma, forever altering the trajectory of my life. Suddenly thrust into a world of disability and uncertainty, I found myself navigating a complex healthcare system in search of answers.
It was amidst this challenging period that I discovered VCC, a beacon of hope in a sea of uncertainty. From the moment they entered my life, VCC provided not just medical assistance, but a sense of community and understanding that transcended traditional healthcare. Their in-home support and unwavering commitment to veterans like me offered a lifeline when I needed it most.
Today, as I continue to grapple with the long-term effects of my injuries, I am reminded of the profound impact that VCC has had on my life. Their dedication to ensuring that veterans can age with dignity and grace in the comfort of their own homes is a testament to the values of service and sacrifice that define our nation.
As a former recruiter and proud veteran, I feel compelled to share my story and spread awareness of the vital services that VCC provides. Too often, veterans are unaware of the resources available to them, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that they receive the care and support they deserve.
While organizations like the VA undoubtedly play a crucial role in supporting our nation’s veterans, the reality is that they are often overstretched and under-resourced. It is organizations like VCC that fill the gaps, providing personalized care and support that truly makes a difference in the lives of veterans.
My journey with VCC has been nothing short of transformative, and I am eternally grateful for the care and compassion they have shown me. As I continue along the path of recovery, I am reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community to uplift and inspire us, even in our darkest moments.
I urge my fellow veterans to explore the resources available to them, and to reach out for help when needed. And to those who may know a veteran in need, I implore you to share the message of VCC and help ensure that no veteran is left behind. For me, VCC has been a beacon of hope in a time of hardship, and I am eternally grateful for the support they have provided.
Sharon Robertson
Lebanon, IL
