T'was the night before Christmas, he lived all alone in a one-bedroom house, made of plaster and stone. I had come down the chimney with presents to give, and to see just who in this home did live. I looked all about, a strange sight I did see: no tinsel, no presents, not even a tree. No stocking by the mantle, just boots filled with sand; on the wall hung pictures of far distant lands. With medals and badges, awards of all kinds, a sober thought came through my mind. For this house was different, it was dark and dreary. I found the home of a soldier, at once I could see clearly. The soldier lay sleeping; silent, alone, curled up on the floor, in this one-bedroom home. Not how I pictured a US soldier. Was this the hero of whom I'd just read, curled up on a poncho, the floor for a bed? I realized the families that I saw this night, owed their lives to these soldiers who were willing to fight. Soon 'round the world, the children would play and grownups would celebrate a bright Christmas Day. They all enjoyed freedom, each month of the year, because of the soldiers like the one lying here. I couldn't help wonder how many lay alone on a cold Christmas Eve in a land far from home. The very thought brought a tear to my eye; I dropped to my knees and started to cry. The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice, "Santa, don't cry. This life is my choice. I fight for freedom, I don't ask for more; my life is my God, my country, my corps." The soldier rolled over and drifted to sleep; I couldn't control it, I continued to weep. I kept watch for hours, so silent and still, and we both shivered from the cold night's chill. I didn't want to leave on that cold, dark night, this guardian of honor, so willing to fight. Then the soldier rolled over, with a voice soft and pure, whispered, "Carry on Santa, it's Christmas Day, all is secure." One look at my watch and I knew he was right, "Merry Christmas my friend, and to all a good night."
Author: A peace keeping soldier stationed overseas
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Tricare Changes Coming January 1, 2021 |
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For Veterans From Veterans |
We continue to receive donated mobility devices to pass on to other Veterans and families. The following is a listing of some of those items:
- Used Power chairs-ten in stock
- Van Lifts-two in stock
- Walker with seat-two in stock
- Power Scooters-two in stock
In search of:
- Electric Hospital Bed: We need to locate an electric operated hospital bed that raises, lowers, and bends with electric motors.
- Donated Cars: At least every quarter we receive a request for a car so we are always on the lookout for one. Would you please keep an eye out too? We need a place to keep it.
- Donated Wheelchair Van: At least every quarter we receive a request for a wheelchair van, so please let us know if you can locate one!
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The holidays can be a joyous time, but also a difficult time for many. Remember we are only a phone call away! We can help you find the right resources.
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Helpful VA Hospital Information |
For Veterans enrolled in the VA Healthcare system and admitted to a non-VA emergency room or urgent care facility, the number to call for the VA Authorization Office is 1-888-795-0773, option 1. A Veteran DOES NOT have to call this number prior to being admitted to the ER or urgent care but must do so within 72 hours post-admission.
If a Veteran is 100% disabled or retired from the military, and is in the Cheyenne VA Medical Center catchment area, call 307-778-7310 to check eligibility for dental benefits.
To transfer your records to the Cheyenne VA Medical Center catchment area, call 307-778-7555
If you fall and need help getting up, call your local fire department. If you lock your keys in the car, call your local fire department.
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November Progress:
- Provided 25 transports
- Held 32 listening sessions
- Delivered furniture to five Veterans
- Delivered power chairs to three Veterans
- Received 33 new cases
- Added 35 new Veterans and families to the system
- Current active cases-50
- Furnished apartments for 4 Veterans
- Delivered 2 free electric power chairs to Veterans
- Installed grab bars
- Continued to assist Veterans in finding housing
- Continued to assist Veterans in finding food, clothing, and rent/mortgage
- Continued to assist Veterans access care both in and outside the VA
- Transported Veterans to and from shopping and medical appointments
- Trained new volunteers
- Processed 5 – 10 phone calls per day on various inquiries
- Processed countless emails per day on various inquiries
- Interviewed more organizations with the objective of partnering with them to serve more Veterans
- Obtained grants to modify the bathtubs of two Veteran widows and one Marine Vietnam Veteran
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What exactly do we do?
- We listen
- Provide transportation to medical appointments
- Help with mobility equipment
- Offer vetted resources for Veterans
- Suits for Veterans and much more
Areas We Need Help This Month
Wheelchair & Scooter Repairs:
We tend to receive many donations of wheelchairs and scooters, along with requests to distribute them back to Veterans. We currently have ten in stock and need someone in Northern Colorado to check them out, replace batteries, and clean them up. We will pay for all the parts.
Collection of Vietnam Memorabilia:
We know a widow wanting to sell her late husbands’ business artifacts and other items from the Vietnam era. He was an Army tunnel rat and made a 25-year business out of this. He has over 100 tubs and boxes of items. Call our office at 720-600-0860 if you might have an interest in the entire collection.
Monetary Donations:
We can always use monetary donations. If you would like to contribute to our cause, please click here.
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Mailing Address:
PO Box 563
Dacono, CO 80514
Tel: 720-600-0860
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