Caregiver Testimony - Christine S.

“Did I have plans? Sure, just like everybody else. Am I afraid of the future? Yes. Burnout? Yes. But this is my child.”   

-Veteran Caregiver, Christine S.

Christine’s son, SGT Erik S. was shot while deployed in 2005 to Mosul, Iraq. A bullet traveled through his brain and left him clinging to life. Later, in the storied halls of Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Christine found her son alive but forever changed.   

Erik experienced a severe traumatic brain injury, lost his ability to speak, and could not do most basic tasks on his own. Christine chose to step up to be her son’s full-time Caregiver. Her family has since looked different than she expected for the last 20 years, but she has a network of support through The Independence Fund.  

The Independence Fund’s Caregiver and Family program recognizes the unseen heroes behind the heroes, like Christine. Caregivers like her sacrifice every day, often putting their own needs aside to be a hero for one of our nation’s bravest.

 That's why The Independence Fund steps in to offer retreats and respite. The program aims to allow them the time and resources they need to nurture their own identities. 

The Independence Fund’s Caregiver and Family program, with the help of generous donors, provides support through various therapies and retreats using a holistic approach.  

Your Support Matters 

The Independence Fund covers the full cost of each retreat – leaving none of the logistical or financial responsibility on the shoulders of these Caregivers.    

Please make a difference in the life of a Caregiver by visiting The Independence Fund’s website to learn more and donate in their honor.