I joined the Army in 1986. As a young women in the military setting out for the career of a lifetime. My experiences in the Army made me a much stronger person and even today, I am grateful that I had a chance to serve my country and would once again. I became injured in the military in 1988. Exposed to a high dose of radiation and made a remarkable recovery as best as possible for my permanent injuries. I was medically retired in 1992. This was the hardest moment of my life. Dealing with my disabilities caused problems for my family which couldn't seem to understand me after I came home. As other vets I have met, my story is the same. Broken family life with little self esteem. Even with the best social workers and therapist, I still struggle from time to time with severe PTSD.

I have had all the vocational rehabilitation that I can possible receive and have attended many rehabilitation programs at VA for dealing with my injuries. Now since retirement and social security at age 40, I feel " washed up " so to speak. My income is now limited and my family life is completely shattered. This seems to be a common situation for many of the vets I have communicated with. Most of us are angry and hurt. Afraid to reach out again and make close ties with others. I never developed a stable relationship with family or had children. Life to me has been lonely. My encouragement comes from god. I still take things one day at a time but
often find myself questioning my abilities. It certainly isn't easy for a women in the military. Your whole life can change in an instant.

Learn more about this author, Elizabeth Bartholow.
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