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- Home from war, veterans’ trauma still ripples through families (newsbreak.com)
The sacrifices of military families often extend far beyond the battlefield, into struggles that ripple through their entire lives. This is vividly illustrated in the story of a family grappling with the aftermath of war’s invisible wounds.
When a veteran returns home bearing the scars of combat, such as a traumatic brain injury or PTSD, their family’s life can change forever. This reality hits hard for the Rotenberry family, whose ordeal sheds light on a widespread yet frequently overlooked issue affecting countless military families across the nation.
The family’s journey into the shadows of war’s aftermath began when the father, a combat veteran, came back home drastically changed. The invisible injuries he carried — a traumatic brain injury coupled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) — placed an immense burden on the entire family, particularly on Kristopher, the eldest son.
Thrust into a role far beyond his years, Kristopher became a caregiver for his father and his siblings, a responsibility that soon took a toll on his own mental health. At the tender age of 12, the weight of his obligations led him to a dark place, culminating in a suicide attempt.
Kristopher’s story is a stark example of a troubling issue facing at least 600,000 veterans diagnosed with PTSD. These numbers point to a harsh reality: the impact of war extends beyond the soldiers to touch the lives of their family members, who often assume the mantle of caregivers. Children and young adults, like Kristopher, find themselves navigating the complexities of adult responsibilities, including caregiving, at a very young age, which can lead to elevated stress levels, mental health issues, and in some cases, tragic outcomes.
Addressing this critical issue, former Senator Elizabeth Dole has emerged as a vocal advocate for military caregivers through the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. The foundation not only highlights the unique challenges faced by these unsung heroes but also strives to provide them with the support and recognition they desperately need.
The Rotenberry family’s experience underscores the pressing need for awareness and action. By sharing their story, they hope to illuminate the sacrifices and struggles of countless other families in similar situations. Kristopher, despite the challenges he has faced, is determined to walk in his father’s footsteps and join the military, reflecting a resilience and commitment to service that is truly inspiring.
Their story is a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of war on soldiers and their families. It underscores the importance of supporting not just the veterans who brave the battlefield but also the hidden heroes who fight their own battles on the home front.
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- Home from war, veterans’ trauma still ripples through families (newsbreak.com)