Dear Friends,
A few years ago I was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. I awoke from a 6-day coma to the news that I was suffering from liver and kidney failure, had had multiple brain bleeds, and without emergency valve replacement surgery, I had fewer than 5 days to live. During the brief time that I had to absorb that news and prepare for surgery, I suffered a stroke and lost half of the sight in my right eye.
While most surgeons would have simply given up and walked away, my brilliant, skilled and daring cardiothoracic surgeon moved forward with the 6 ½ hours of surgery and saved my life.
After my release from the hospital, I faced 18 months of brutal, painful recovery marred by Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, significant residual damage from the multiple brain bleeds, and crushing depression that led to thoughts of suicide. Only through the support of family, friends, doctors, and therapy, was I able to recover – mentally and physically.
I soon realized how much my near-death experience had changed me. My newfound insight, perspective and knowledge steered me to what some might consider a rash or difficult decision. But for me, there was no other option; I walked away from a 30-year business career and began to look for something more meaningful.
Watching the news day in and day out as I recovered, I stopped feeling sorry for myself and began focusing my attention on the needs of others. As each story ran, I was struck by how desperately our veterans needed our help. They have fought and continue to fight for what we all believe in – our country and our freedom, yet we at home have fallen short of honoring their remarkable service.
I founded the Our Veterans, Our Heroes Foun dation to focus on what is really important…helping those who need and warrant our help the most…our nation’s veterans…our heroes…who have always been there when we needed them the most.
Now they need us.
Ken Fry
CEO / Founder
Our Veterans, Our Heroes™