Help a Vet get back on his feet

Once upon a time, I was a spry guy who loved working in Radio and Newspaper and being the creative marketer that my soul required me to be. A proud Veteran of the Vietnam War, I have always been drawn to help those in need.

Unfortunately, I'm now that person in need. My pride tells me to roll up my sleeves and get to work but my body laughs at me. So it's time to get creative and figure out how an old guy like me can still make a difference.

In 2003, my beloved wife Joyce and I bought our forever home in Chelsea VT. Our dream was to develop the property into Camp Chelsea, a home for Veterans in need, who have been forgotten by the system.

Unfortunately, I lost Joyce after a 3 year battle with Colon Cancer. She was the backbone of our family and our time together was the greatest joy I could have ever received. Since her death in a few years ago, I have been in and out of the hospital for my own gruesome issues. Getting old sucks - I do not recommend it! My busted back and diabetes means I'm stuck using a cane and have very limited mobility. While I still think I like a soldier, no one seems to need an old guy around.

As all sad tragedies do, mine got worse after my wife died. I'll spare you the details, but I thought I had partnered with good people who turned out to be pretty awful for me. My home was damaged and in need of extensive repairs and my finances were destroyed. I am currently living on a monthly check that covers the bills but barely puts a dent into my debt. I have been able to turn things around with the help of some old friends but the string of bad luck keeps piling on. The current crisis is a busted chimney in need of a new skim, a storm damaged driveway and a fuel debt so high, they have made their last good will delivery.

My time as a Chaplain for Heath Doyle Post 61 in Chelsea keeps me motivated that good things are still in my future. I'm making a difference for others and I believe that's what I'm on this Earth to do. Unfortunately, I'm now the person in need of some Goodwill.

If you are so inclined to help an old Vet this Holiday Day seaon, I would be forever grateful to you.

God Bless You,

Stevie P