GOING TO THE BUNKER

To a returning combat veteran with PTSD, 'going to their bunker' means going into a walled off and isolated situation that gives them space alone, away from other people to include their friends and family, when they are feeling particularly triggered.  How long they stay in the bunker is for as long as they have to.  They will come out when they are ready and not a moment before.

It is simply protective isolation.  It has been likened to putting yourself into 'time out'. Time out from the world, away from people and stimulation, both bad and good.  This 'time out' will be over when it's over. Only they can decide when that might be. It could be a day or a year.

Triggers like fireworks, noise, smoke, crowds  or situations that make them lose control, can force the veteran to seek out his or her 'bunker.'  Things such as an argument with a spouse or child, loosing their temper, lack of sleep, flashbacks, nightmares, anger, alcohol and substance abuse, medical issues, sexual trauma, depression and being constantly depressed and hyper vigilant, are all symptoms that can lead to 'the bunker.'

Then sometimes the warrior with PTSD takes a friend into the bunker with him.  Sometimes this friend is a dog. Such was the case with Manny.  With him, it was obvious that stress reduction techniques and coping skills helped him regain control along with the help of Gracie his PTSD Support Dog.

Manny adored her.  When she was there in his arms there was no fear, no memories of war, no grief, no anxiety - only Gracie. His facial muscles relaxed as he held her close and snuggled this one thing that asked nothing of him.  She calmed him as nothing else did. His avoidance and isolation lessened as each week he looked forward to once again spending time with Gracie.

We as humans are social creatures and sometimes in isolation we wither and sometimes we go into a isolation of a bunker and never come out.  The ones who get help come out and the ones who don't, often don't come out.

PLEASE HELP US HELP - WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT

TRAIN A DOG - SAVE A WARRIOR PROGRAM

In this program, shelter dogs will be specially selected, rescued, and obedience trained for a donation to a warrior wsith Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, as a Comfort/Support Dog.

Your contribution will make a difference.

$250.00 will help sponsor our first dog for a very special Marine with severe PTSD and two TBI's (Traumatic Brain Injuries).

Please send to:

PENNY'S FROM HEAVEN FOUNDATION

13423 BLANCO ROAD, SUITE 218

SAN ANTONIO, TX 78216

Thank you!