Army And Navy Veteran Seeks Help After Exhausting VA Resources
by Raymond Boyles
(Logan, Utah, USA)
I served in both the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army. I was injured in a very bad car wreck while on duty in Germany. I was a passenger in the car wreck. The wreck still gives me many nightmares and sleepless nights.
I suffer from a degenerative disk disorder in my neck. I also have a metal rod that supports my right leg. Both of my legs are in bad shape. The worse part is that I have never got over the mental problems suffered from looking at the dead people in the car wreck.
I had a good job when I finished the military, but lost the job, car, and apartment to a D.U.I. I am sorry for my behavior because there is no excuse; however I am constantly still trying to improve myself but without a veil. I drank so I would not have the nightmares.
I managed to quit drinking alcohol; however, I still have a hard time with false authority and understanding people in general. This causes problems at work.
I am currently in a PhD program, so I have managed to help myself along with veterans help, but the bills are crazy and I live paycheck to paycheck. I have had many weeks where all I get to eat is green beans.
I am not sure If I will get a job when the college is completed, but all I see in my future is that my pay will go to loans upon loans, and I will never be able to financially get out of debt.
I am requesting any advice for help. I have already utilized my G.I bill, and I have used chapter 30 and chapter 31. The V.A. told me that I completed my Voc Rehab program when I went on for my master’s degree. I do not see any more support in the future.
My current situation is that I receive a fellowship and V.A. benefits that amount to about $2000 a month. I received a $2000 loan from a friend to move here, but the problem is that I am still paying for the move from Pittsburgh to Utah, and after rent, utilities and food, there is nothing left during the first week of the month.
My fuel pump in my used car just went last month. The cost was $800 for the replacement. I do not know how much longer my car or I will run either. My credit is also bad from losing my job, car and apartment.
In summary, I feel that even if I make this journey, I do not see the benefit. I could use any advice that would offer support, hope and relief. I am not starving, but life sure is difficult to manage.
I feel ashamed that I wrote this letter, but I feel that this is a resource designed to help. I feel a grant would help me over the obstacle of financial burden and would allow me to see the future so that I may eventually help others in my situation. Thank You. Raymond Boyles.
