This is the reason organizations like
Tennessee
Helping Hearts exists.
A non-profit group that serves Tennessee soldiers
and their immediate families, Tennessee Helping
Hearts is attempting to make a difference in the
lives of these special families. Services include
building wheel-chair ramps for disabled returning
soldiers and granting wishes and providing emotional
support for families.
The group's latest success story was providing a day
at Dollywood for Marine Cpl. Brad Walker of White
Pine. Walker lost both legs in a 2006 explosion
while serving in Iraq. The injury may have left
Walker with health issues, but he still has a
determination to enjoy life as he proved with family
and friends during his visit to the Pigeon Forge
theme park. Walker's disability also didn't prevent
him from enjoying all the park has to offer and he
proved his muster by enjoying the new Mystery Mine
roller coaster.
Walker is not only a returning Marine,
but proves why the Marines want someone with his
grit and determination. With the loss of his legs,
many would just sit back and give up, but not
Walker. Just one month ago, he entered a 100-mile
cycling marathon with his hand-powered cycle. He
wrecked at the 90-mile marker after a problem with
one of his wheels, but Walker is continuing therapy
at Walter Reed Hospital and vows to "get my running
legs."
People like Walker, and groups like
Tennessee
Helping Hearts are examples that should make
us stand up and cheer. Their ability to share and
honor others results in only good things from those
around them. Wouldn't it be nice if we could all
install a helping heart?
Reprinted from the Mountain Press
