Sergeant Ryan Nelson's family

Ryan Nelson was my eldest brother,  a loving shield, and a proud protector of not only this country, but of his five children. Mental illness is not uncommon amongst combat veterans, and even though billions of dollars have been spent to assist the VA in helping veterans, suicide rates have not gone down. Unfortunately, depression can claim the lives of the strongest and bravest heroes of our country. That was my brother. Even heroes need help; it is such a tragic reality that most veterans give their lives to return to a place where their needs are slowly fulfilled by waiting lists. No veteran should struggle in life or death. With this being said, not all of my big brother's funeral expenses will be covered by the VA. Coming from a low-income family, funerals are not only emotionally devastating, but financially devastating as well. My brother never expected much; he was always giving. We don't ask for flowers or gifts, but rather a simple donation, whether it be big or small, anything to help his family. Thank you.