Lion Mike Halbach Introduced Guest Speaker Marilyn Kinyo Director of Marketing & Communications with Camp Hope (PTSD Foundation of America) at our December 13th meeting at Fire Station #1. The Tomball Lions Club presented the $1,000 annual check allocation to Camp Hope. Pictured Left-Right: TBLC Past President Bob Ervin, Camp Hope Josh Eastburn, Logan McFarland, Director Marilyn Kinyo and Nate Gonzales.
Marilyn Kinyo brought three Camp Hope Veterans to our meeting, Josh Eastburn, Logan McFarland and Nate Gonzales. They discussed how Camp Hope provides an environment where combat veterans with PTSD find the tools they need to live healthy lives.
Drawing on his military background and journey toward healing, Nathan Gonzalez is a compassionate Veteran Coordinator dedicated to helping combat veterans overcome their challenges. Nathan served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2002 to 2006, participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Task Force Scorpion, and Operation Phantom Fury. His service was acknowledged through various awards, including the Combat Action Ribbon, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and the Navy Unit Commendation.
In July 2022, Nathan faced a severe crisis. Encouraged by a fellow Marine, he found solace at Camp Hope. Here, he gained deep insights into combat-related mental trauma, referred to as the "Unseen Wounds of War." Accepting that his combat experiences had permanently altered his brain chemistry, Nathan embarked on a path of understanding and recovery.
Today, Nathan leverages his leadership, intelligence, and wisdom to assist other veterans grappling with similar issues. His focus lies on exploring how combat changes individuals and showcasing the healing opportunities available at Camp Hope. Committed to shedding light on the 'unseen wounds of war,' Nathan strives to help combat veterans find a new way to live, guiding them out of the darkness and towards the path of recovery.
If any other Veteran needs help, please have them reach out to our Combat Trauma Help Line at 877-717-PTSD (7873). It is manned 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by someone who has been through what you have. We provide programs, outreach services, and advocacy efforts designed to help Veterans find the tools they need to lead healthy lives after combat.
One of our own Lions who served in the Vietnam War (1965-1971) was so happy to hear that Camp Hope is open to all Veterans no matter when they served.
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