In June the ASF hosted a Wounded Warrior Women’s Project Odyssey. 13 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, four Veteran Administration counselors, and a few Wounded Warrior Project Staff members spent four days bicycling, kayaking, horseback riding, practicing yoga and hiking. After each active day of learning and honing skills, the participants gathered for group discussions.

The week culminated with an outdoor healing ceremony, by a campfire, under a rising full moon. Mike Tarbell, Curator of the Iroquois Museum at Howes Cave, New York, Mohawk American and Vietnam War veteran, led the healing ceremony. The women found strength and courage through shared experiences, both past and present, to move forward on their individual paths.

Thank you for helping us help ourselves. I leave with a peaceful presence in my heart to keep on my path to health and happiness,” Melissa wrote upon her departure.

“Thank you for everything you’ve all provided this week: wisdom, knowledge and caring, strength. In this, I have found my own. I’m eternally grateful,” wrote Sandra.

We at the ASF feel honored and grateful to have the opportunity to work with these wonderful women who are striving to improve their well-being and to find ways to continue to serve others.