Wounded Warrior Project Provides New Hope

CHICAGO, Oct. 4, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As Hope Cruttendan tells it, Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) provided courage at a time when she needed it most. She served her nation in the National Guard, in Iraq.

Her separation from the military left her feeling isolated and depressed. She first registered with WWP in 2012 but waited years to get involved.

"At first, I didn't do anything because I was injured and didn't think I could do the things Wounded Warrior Project was doing," Hope said.

While dealing with her injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Hope found a new battle. Doctors diagnosed her with two types of cancer. That's when she turned back to WWP for encouragement.

"The first event I went to, I helped pack lunches for a food bank in Michigan. We made 2,000 sandwiches, and that was way cool."

The camaraderie she experienced during that gathering has created new strength – enough strength to travel to Chicago to join more than 40 other warriors at the Air and Water Show.

For the past 10 years, WWP has partnered with Chicago Fire and the Cook County Sheriff's Department to connect warriors during a memorial weekend along Lake Michigan in Chicago. During the four-day event, wounded veterans build new support structures through shared activities, both physical and recreational. Warriors experience the air show in a private viewing area, away from the massive crowds. They meet with jumpmasters and pilots who perform in the show. They also connect with the lifesaving programs and services offered by WWP.

Hope left with new friendships, but she also had the chance to fulfill a life-long dream – going to a Cubs game.

"I've been listening to them on the radio with my father since I was a child."

These different experiences give warriors a chance to bond, which helps create lasting friendships.

"I met a few people this weekend who reminded me no soldier is left behind."

To learn and see more about how WWP's programs and services connect, serve, and empower wounded warriors, visit http://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org, and click on multimedia.

About Wounded Warrior Project 
Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) connects, serves, and empowers wounded warriors. Read more at http://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/about-us.

SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project