What have you literally given of yourself that others might live more fulfilling lives?

LTC Stephen F. — Sun, 03 Apr 2016 12:12:36 -0400

In this life many of us have learned it really is better to give than receive.
Many of us were inspired to donate blood as military service members. Some of us have donated our hair to make wigs for cancer patients who have lost theirs in treatment.
A few of us may have donated a kidney to somebody close to us. Some may have been part of a bone marrow transplant. How have you helped?

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Apr 3 at 2016 12:16 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Sun, 03 Apr 2016 12:16:26 -0400

I donated blood regularly until I was unable to because I had been stationed in Germany in the early 1980s and there was a risk of the human version of mad cow disease in me. After I left the military I have been growing a ponytail and donating it to make wigs for cancer patients. While many of my organs have been damaged, I plan o donating whatever useable organs I can after I die.

Response by SSgt Robert Marx made Apr 3 at 2016 12:46 PM

SSgt Robert Marx — Sun, 03 Apr 2016 12:46:19 -0400

Giving blood is essential for every adult able to do so. My organs will probably be shot by the time of my death but if use can be made of them after I am done with them, use them!

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Apr 3 at 2016 5:34 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Sun, 03 Apr 2016 17:34:43 -0400

I give time. It's the most valuable thing I possess. Think about it. We only have a finite amount. Unlike our checkbooks, we never know the balance. Thus, time becomes more valuable with every passing second. Every heartbeat is one less in the bank vault of life. We could be miserly and keep every second for ourselves. I choose not to. I share my time, I share my life. I've given it to youth at risk. I given it to the homeless and disabled veterans. I give it only to the deserving. It's the one thing that I get to manage. The government can't take it from me and give it to the undeserving. Time.

Response by MAJ Rene De La Rosa made Apr 3 at 2016 9:03 PM

MAJ Rene De La Rosa — Sun, 03 Apr 2016 21:03:55 -0400

I have given blood before. I have also directed that any organs that could be of use to be given to someone else. That is the least that can be done considering the dearth of organ donations.

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Apr 4 at 2016 10:35 AM

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 10:35:04 -0400

LTC Stephen F. I will donate my organs after my death - that is it so far my friend - great question! I've donated blood on many occasions as well.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2016 5:42 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 05:42:14 -0400

I gave a good chunk of my body, mind, and soul to bring men home. I do not believe you have to do one of the below posted in order for other to have a more fulfilling life. I did start the first Group O low titre fresh whole blood transfusion program in the DoD since Vietnam. I have enabled others in combat to have an immediate impact on their fellow Soldier who maybe dying on the battlefield.