John & Lois
The good folks of Jackson, NH have adopted two wounded veterans and their families this holiday season. One of those veterans, John Oliveira, is a NEADS client. John, his assistance dog Lois, and John’s wife and three kids will travel to Jackson for Christmas, where the entire community has decided to give them a holiday worth remembering.
Most of us have wonderful memories of gathering with family and friends to celebrate the wonders of Christmas. However, for wounded veterans, this season can be bittersweet, a reminder of explosions and debilitating injuries. Could one family, one community, help wounded warriors escape the daily pressures of coping with disabilities, finances, and emotions?
That’s exactly what Dr. and Mrs. Gerald Carrier of Jackson, and their children and grandchildren decided to do in 2008.
“We wanted to give these wounded veterans and their families a Christmas they can look forward to and remember for a lifetime,” said Dr. Carrier.
Working with the Wounded Warrior Project, the Carriers adopted two military families, bringing them to Jackson for an old-fashioned New England Christmas. That was the beginning of the Christmas Can Cure tradition that gets the entire community involved, from business owners to individuals who donate money and their time to drive the families to and from activities.
The public is invited to meet this year’s recipients — retired Navy Lt Commander John Oliveira, and retired Army Specialist Eddie Platt — on Friday, Dec. 16, at 10 a.m. for the opening flag-raising ceremony at the Jackson Town Offices.
This story was originally posted in the Conway Daily Sun. Click here to find out how you can help, and to read more!
Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service. Consider observing the “National Moment of Remembrance” and pause during whatever you are doing at 3PM today, to silently remember, reflect and honor those who have given their all in service to their country. NEADS is proud to support the men and women who serve selflessly in our nation’s military.
