What does it mean to survive trauma? Sometimes you take a new path, one that’s unexpected, but full of the love and hope you thought you’d never get to experience again. Meet a Vietnam Veteran who did just that. The following episode may contain descriptions of violence. Please use discretion.

For this episode, our co-hosts are Rachel Weiskittle, an assistant professor in the department of psychology at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. Her research focuses on grief, trauma, aging, and the role of creative art therapies in helping people heal from loss. Jenn Daks is a clinical psychologist at VA Boston Healthcare System. Her work focuses on promoting resilience in late life, particularly among older adult couples and families, as well as pain management.

Resources for this episode:

• Understanding PTSD and Aging: English Version ; Spanish Version
• The My Life My Story Podcast
• VHA Office of Rural Health

Further Reading:

• National Center for PTSD
• VA Mental Health

Are you a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one? Find support anytime day or night To connect with a Veterans Crisis Line responder anytime day or night:

• Call 800-273-8255, then select 1.
• Start a confidential chat.
• Text 838255.
• If you have hearing loss, call TTY: 800-799-4889.