In my diary of Wednesday, May 14, 2008, I stated the premise that the McGuire VA Hospital was accepting socks for soldiers that would otherwise not have them. I also said that the government could not afford socks.
I am aware now that this isn’t the case. I have been in contact with someone from the hospital, and they have set me straight as to what the real needs are. I was wrong, and I apologize for ever giving the impression that these ‘facts’ I presented were true.
As I recounted in my diary, a local Farmville VFW member had written a letter to the editor concerning socks for soldiers. I understood the meaning of the letter to say that a shortage of socks existed, and that’s how I arrived where my diary did concerning this situation. However, the letter did say that the hospital could not afford socks. The letter’s purpose was to raise funds for socks.
My apologies also go to McGuire Hospital, since this has caused them bad publicity and confused the situation of what the soldiers’ true needs are. I know first hand how hard the people at that and all the Veteran’s Hospitals work to mend and repair the bodies and minds of our heroes. Being a veteran myself, I have been treated at this hospital, as has my dad, an Air Force veteran.
The person I corresponded with told me that there are lists, which I have now received. The original intent was to have a fun day with the socks thing, and I spoiled that in that I didn’t check my sources well enough when I wrote.
I have the lists, which, with my partners on this, if they want to work with me, will organize a drive for gifts to these soldiers in need of something to brighten their days.
Throughout this, I will keep you informed, and ask you to help as we show some true thankfulness for the sacrifices these soldiers have gone through.
This situation has brought something to mind, as it should for everyone. In my haste, I screwed up a good situation by trying to help. I will check my sources better and also research my stories better. I apologize finally to you, the reader.
Don’t feel bad about the socks issue. I stayed at McGuire for over 9 months with my father and I can remember times when there were no blankets. There were many other issues that can be commented on, however, the budget for the hospital is not the problem. The problem is the lack of good quality care. By the way I remember brand new items being thrown away on a daily basis. Beds, chairs, etc., were always in the dumpster below my fathers room. Unfortunately, for my dad, who was a career army man, the surgery left him unable to leave the hospital due to infection, which left him with a huge open wound across his stomach and other horrible complications that were usually adressed too late. Believe me when I tell you socks are not a big issue. I think it is sweet that you are that sensitive, it means alot to me, since, I have had seven brothers in the miltary and my father. It is nice to know that there are people out there who care.