Contributions for 2015
![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015dec-glitter.jpg)
For those of us who have lost a service member, we have our own story about a journey, a star, and the blue that turned to gold.
12/22/2015 - Michele Hiester Marcum![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-survivingholidays.jpg)
In this easy to read book, hospice chaplain and bereavement specialist Roe shares how you can move through the holidays with your loved one in a new way.
12/21/2015 - Kelly Griffith![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-findingjoy.jpg)
Have you found joy? It is especially hard as the holiday season approaches, but occasionally I catch a glimpse.
12/21/2015 - Bunnie Jacquay![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-innerwarrior.jpg)
TAPS knows that strength for the journey is an important way we can help and inspire each other and launches a new TAPS Health & Wellness Initiative.
12/21/2015 - Emily Munoz![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-windy25.jpg)
This group of dedicated current and former military understands that when we call our fallen heroes by name and honor their memories they are with us.
12/21/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-tapsfam.jpg)
Whether you need to dig into the holidays or to completely disconnect from them, there’s no place that grief takes you that your #tapsfam doesn’t understand.
12/21/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-callanan.jpg)
Casey's interest to volunteer with TAPS was spurred by a speech delivered by Vice President Joe Biden during the TAPS National Military Survivor Seminar.
12/21/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-panthers.jpg)
The teams4taps program celebrated its two-year anniversary in November setting in motion an exciting end-of-year schedule of team engagements.
12/21/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015winter.jpg)
Volume 21, Issue 4
12/21/2015 - TAPS Quarterly Magazine![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-unity.jpg)
My TAPS family helps me find my way to safe harbor by being the buoy that keeps me afloat in rough waters.
12/21/2015 - Amy Dozier![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-griefstrategies.jpg)
The new year provides a opportunity for us to be honest about the pain of our grief, and resolve in the months to come to do the necessary grief work.
12/21/2015 - Brad Stetson![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-holidaywellness.jpg)
Traditions define families and communities. Children depend on them like they do the security of their favorite blanket.
12/21/2015 - Nancy Heinrich![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-holidaysprepare.jpg)
Sometimes old holiday rituals are comforting after a death, sometimes they're not. Continue them if they feel good to you; consider creating new ones.
12/21/2015 - Bonnie Carroll - Alan Wolfelt![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-munoz.jpg)
As we approach the holidays, we brace ourselves with gratitude and learn to be thankful for the gaps and spaces because of who once filled them.
12/21/2015 - Emily Munoz![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-4-haycock.jpg)
Even though the process did not occur in any prescribed order or in the way some say it should have, I felt I reached important milestones in my grief journey.
12/21/2015 - Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015dec-ambard2.jpg)
I embrace the spirit of hope that comes from my faith and from the life I have been given.
12/15/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015dec-machupiccu.jpg)
Getting off of the couch isn’t about exercise; it is about living life.
12/8/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-candle.jpg)
I appreciate the soothing nature of the flickering light of candles and their gentle glow during the shorter days of the holiday season.
11/28/2015 - Carol Lane![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-marcum.jpg)
Ever notice how holiday greetings begin with “happy”? Happy Thanksgiving! Happy Holidays! Even Fridays become Happy Friday!
11/25/2015 - Michele Hiester Marcum![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-tips.jpg)
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors Offers Tips for the Holidays.
11/25/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-ambard.jpg)
I am thankful that Phil taught me what it was to be loved well and how to love well.
11/23/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-annapolis.jpg)
Event Photos
11/21/2015 - TAPS Media![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2016/2016nov-charleston.jpg)
Event Photos
11/18/2015 - TAPS Media![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-anxiety.jpg)
Had anyone told me I would be struggling with anxiety some days that almost swallows me whole in one gulp, I would not have believed it.
11/18/2015 - Jenna Henderson![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-freedom.jpg)
Phil never took for granted the freedoms afforded to him by the citizenship he received to our country a week shy of his 18th birthday.
11/11/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-vetsday.jpg)
Since my husband’s death in 2010, Veterans Day has always been my hardest holiday.
11/11/2015 - Rachael Hill![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-panthers.jpg)
It may be just a game, but to many Americans like my father, football is part of your household, part of how you connect with your family and friends, and part of you.
11/10/2015 - Tabitha Bonilla![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-happybday.jpg)
I never understood the family bond of the Marines until I attended the ball with Dre and watched the history unfold before my eyes.
11/10/2015 - Shanette Booker![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-nascar.jpg)
In October, executives at Charlotte Motor Speedwaycreated an extraordinary opportunity for a TAPS family at the Bank of America 500 race.
11/4/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-mentor.jpg)
Through the TAPS Military Mentor Program, TAPS connects grieving military children with individual military mentors.
11/4/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-ten.jpg)
A decade. Ten very long years that have seemingly whizzed by on dragging feet since my brother left this earth.
11/3/2015 - Michele Hiester Marcum![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015nov-redskins.jpg)
Event Photos
11/1/2015 - TAPS Media![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015oct-pumpkin.jpg)
It’s that spook-tacular time of year, with all things creepy and frightening lurking in the shadows and lunging from television ads.
10/31/2015 - Michele Hiester Marcum![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015oct-pumpkins.jpg)
Of the many obstacles we face after the loss of a loved one is how to tackle those extra challenging hallmark calendar dates.
10/29/2015 - Carla Stumpf Patton![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015oct-griffith2.jpg)
I was 10 years old the first and last time I asked my brother, Sam, if I could go on a run with him.
10/25/2015 - Kelly Griffith![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015oct-rachel.jpg)
Responsibility can be an overwhelming thing, especially when you feel like it is all on you s a single parent.
10/22/2015 - Rachael Hill![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015oct-patton.jpg)
I have found that being a mentor is a continuous learning process. I have forged symbiotic relationships and we help each other through good and bad times.
10/16/2015 - Lynn Patton![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015oct-blum.jpg)
It's TAPS all the way. Hands down. No other group is like it. If you are a member or TAPS and have never attended an event...DO.
10/14/2015 - Misty Blum![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015oct-kyle.jpg)
Running a marathon for some is a sport; for others a life accomplishment. Me? I run for Kyle.
10/11/2015 - Maggie Osborn![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015oct-atm.jpg)
Running for Dre was more than just a great workout or a sport, it was a way of life.
10/11/2015 - Shanette Booker![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015oct-marten.jpg)
I had the great pleasure of representing TAPS at the Points of Light National Day of Service and Remembrance held at the Washington Monument.
10/7/2015 - Marten Wallace![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015oct-ambard2.jpg)
This weekend with other military widows brought me clarity. It is the place where I could see how far I have come and where I need to dare myself to go.
10/6/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015oct-ambard.jpg)
No retreat, no surrender, and I have to trust at some point the way ahead will become clearer and more comfortable.
10/1/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015sep-hunsell.jpg)
I was submerged in one of the Seven Wonders of the World with people who, without speaking, knew my heart and its pain.
9/29/2015 - Rachel Hunsell![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015sep-murray.jpg)
We will see your smiling face again! You are close in our memories and forever embedded in our hearts! Forever and a day!
9/28/2015 - Leila Murray![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015sep-byron.jpg)
Gold Star Mother’s Day is recognized the last Sunday of the month of September. Each year I wear my pin to church as a remembrance of my son.
9/27/2015 - Carol Lane![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015sep-tomlinson.jpg)
The moment I received the news that my son was dead by suicide I changed. That was the moment I reached down and stepped into my Fraud Suit.
9/25/2015 - Marcia McCormick Tomlinson![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-healinghope.jpg)
I keep this paper zebra heart on the desktop with my son's flag case, photos, and medals. TAPS is the family I found when I lost my son.
9/23/2015 - Judi Swenson![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-crossbogar.jpg)
My son devoted himself to his family and this world, beyond life and regret. And he forgave the man who was about to take his life.
9/21/2015 - Carlene Cross![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-usaa.jpg)
USAA joined TAPS in honoring families of the fallen by hosting USAA's annual Bowlathon in San Antonio, Texas.
9/21/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-healinghope.jpg)
Fortunately, hope is on the horizon with of the growing knowledge about grief and traumatic loss.
9/21/2015 - Iris Bolton![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-swim.jpg)
I let my children know that grief and sadness are parts of life, and love and hugs are the lifesavers that will help us float and eventually swim.
9/21/2015 - Tara Cameron![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-gab.jpg)
TAPS provides a space solely for men to explore our great American landscape while navigating together the unique terrain that is a man's grief.
9/21/2015 - Gabriel Rao![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015sep-aldapa.jpg)
My journey as a survivor of military suicide loss began July 18th, 2012, when our son Paul, a young 22-year old Petty Officer in the Coast Guard, took his own life.
9/21/2015 - Mike Aldapa![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-castello.jpg)
“If someone is on the phone with me and needs me for three hours, I will make myself available for three hours.”
9/21/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-metaphors.jpg)
Traveling the country to host Seminars, the TAPS team hears about the sense of freedom that comes from connecting with other people who understand.
9/21/2015 - Emily Munoz![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015fall.jpg)
Volume 21, Issue 3
9/21/2015 - TAPS Quarterly Magazine![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-hands.jpg)
How do you know when or if you are ready to explore romantic love again?
9/21/2015 - Amanda McPherson![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-classic.jpg)
The tenth anniversary of an event that celebrates and remembers the lives of our fallen heroes and their families is an important milestone.
9/21/2015 - Christine Burtt![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-readingbook.jpg)
TAPS is proud to announce our new book of comfort and care, written with love for all who are grieving a loss in the military.
9/21/2015 - Bonnie Carroll - Alan Wolfelt![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-hike.jpg)
The road to healing is far from over, but I now know I don't have to travel that road alone because of the love that was found in, of all places, Alaska.
9/21/2015 - Gavin Bradshaw![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-3-kilimanjaro.jpg)
It wasn't a race to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, but rather an exercise in continually putting one foot in front of the other on the six-day ascent.
9/21/2015 - Jennifer Freitas![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015sep-islandwood.jpg)
And I realized that somewhere along this journey called “Grief” I have learned to be still and breathe.
9/17/2015 - Elizabeth Culp Sergent![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015sep-ambard.jpg)
It is going to hurt and I am going to want to quit, but I continue on because I simply cannot let terrorism have any more.
9/15/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015sep-cpatton.jpg)
With every day that I live my life, I continually honor the memory of my loved one and in doing so, I am embracing all that I still do have to be grateful for.
9/14/2015 - Carla Stumpf Patton![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015sep-911.jpg)
There is great weight in the notion that there are only ever “days after 9/11.” There seems no way, in our lifetime at least, to ever go back to September 10th.
9/11/2015 - Claire Henline![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2012/2012aug-lipstein.jpg)
It is time to drop the stigma of mental health and suicide death and begin to change our society.
9/10/2015 - Don Lipstein![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015sep-equine.jpg)
Event Photos
9/1/2015 - TAPS Media![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015aug-ambard2.jpg)
In that choice to forgive, I am free to remember a man gone far too soon. I am free to enjoy living and not be consumed by my own negative judgments.
8/27/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015aug-alaska.jpg)
Event Photos
8/13/2015 - TAPS Media![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015aug-sunjata.jpg)
As of the death of my husband, I became a soldier, single mother and military widow. Today, 34 years later, also a survivor!
8/11/2015 - Aissatou E. Sunjata![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015aug-ambard.jpg)
It battered my physical body and bruised my heart. The oppressive heat of summer bore down relentless and pressing and left me aching for a simpler time.
8/6/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015aug-bell.jpg)
I just stood there in silence, and in awe of these beautiful geese singing and talking to one another. I felt Vincent's energy in the air.
8/2/2015 - London Bell![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jul-dozier.jpg)
Thank you for being there for me in my darkest hours and in my brightest accomplishments.
7/29/2015 - Amy Dozier![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jul-heart.jpg)
In time, it is promised by those who have traveled this journey, there will be smiles again where tears were shed.
7/28/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jul-rachel.jpg)
It has now been five years since I watched you put on your boots, grab your coffee cup, and head off to work for the very last time.
7/28/2015 - Rachael Hill![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jul-burris.jpg)
If I could tell them anything, it would be to say simply, "You are not alone. I too have shared your journey and am here to listen and walk yours now with you."
7/24/2015 - Karen Burris![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jul-tennesee.jpg)
Event Photos
7/23/2015 - TAPS Media![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jul-ambard.jpg)
Phil’s legacy of duty, honor, commitment, faith, life, and love did not end with the death of his physical body, but the legacy grows and shines through my work.
7/22/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jul-newengland.jpg)
Event Photos
7/18/2015 - TAPS Media![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015july-obrien.jpg)
I am so glad that I made that trip with him and had that special bonding time with my grandson.
7/16/2015 - Dana O'Brien![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jun-noreen.jpg)
I hope by encouraging others along our shared journey by volunteering with TAPS I've found a great way to honor my dad.
7/7/2015 - Noreen Doloughty![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jul-bday.jpg)
This Independence Day, America's Family wishes all of our fellow countrymen a happy and safe Fourth of July.
7/4/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/tapsbook-healing.jpg)
This book affirms that survivors’ grief is shaped by the unique circumstances of the death when a loved one is killed in the line of duty.
7/1/2015 - Bonnie Carroll - Alan Wolfelt![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015feb-ambard.jpg)
I am good at being the mute friend and the friend that never takes the risks, but I am learning that nothing ventured is nothing gained.
6/30/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jun-midatlantic.jpg)
Event Photos
6/29/2015 - TAPS Media![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jun-rachel.jpg)
I became more present in each day and when I did that, the excitement and enjoyment of life started to return…and so did that sparkle.
6/26/2015 - Rachael Hill![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jun-museums.jpg)
Participation in Blue Star Museums is one of our favorite ways to enjoy the summer season!
6/24/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-2-intention.jpg)
How could I ever plan for a future without by brother here to motivate me in the tough moments and help me celebrate my victories?
6/21/2015 - Kelly Griffith![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-2-pebbles.jpg)
Over the years since my son’s death in 2004, I have received many messages and signs from him.
6/21/2015 - Claire Perkins![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-2-hiker.jpg)
How do you ever find your way out of the wilderness of your grief? You don't have to dwell there forever, do you?
6/21/2015 - Alan Wolfelt![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-2-roberts.jpg)
Her father's mantra was, “You can't just be good, you also have to do good.”
6/21/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015summer.jpg)
Volume 21, Issue 2
6/21/2015 - TAPS Quarterly Magazine![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-2-lisawill.jpg)
My son's experience has been unique. Will never knew his father, yet he has experienced the grief of absence, growing up without a father.
6/21/2015 - Lisa Hudson![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-2-normal.jpg)
When our son died, "normal" flew out the window and hasn't returned. And because of its departure, leaving confusion, chaos, and disarray in its wake.
6/21/2015 - Betsy Beard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-2-jacobson.jpg)
TAPS Retreats are designed to bring survivors out of their comfort zone. We get to see just how strong we are, after losing someone important in our lives.
6/21/2015 - Erin Jacobson![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-2-national.jpg)
One of the single most important factors in healing from loss is having support. Sharing your loss can make the burden of grief easier to carry.
6/21/2015 - Jill Harrington-LaMorie![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-2-mengrief.jpg)
Like many men, I suppose I didn't want to talk about or even watch other men discuss their grief.
6/21/2015 - Samuel Griffith![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jun-dozier.jpg)
Today, have your moments, live the traditions, and celebrate the new life you're creating in memory of a wonderful man!
6/20/2015 - Amy Dozier![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jun-meyer.jpg)
Maybe Father's Day is more about them than it is about us. In some way, maybe through our living they continue to live.
6/19/2015 - Terry Meyer![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jun-ambard.jpg)
Four years out, I can say that this journey is like a marathon. It still hurts. But by focusing on the next step it will eventually lead the finish line.
6/16/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jun-dre.jpg)
He lives with each breath I take and with each person who hears his story and learns of his legacy.
6/9/2015 - Shanette Booker![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jun-carolgarden.jpg)
When we put forth emotional or physical energy, we need to take time for ourselves to relax and re-energize.
6/6/2015 - Carol Lane![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015may-national.jpg)
Event Photos
5/30/2015 - TAPS Media![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015may-flagrose.jpg)
Wherever you chose to spend this Memorial Day, you are in the right place and the thoughts of your TAPS family are with you.
5/23/2015 - Carol Lane![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015may-memorialday.jpg)
It's for all Americans to remember we enjoy our many freedoms because of a brave few who dedicated their lives to this country.
5/21/2015 - Bonnie Carroll![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015may-lighthouse.jpg)
Lighthouses have special meaning for me. They light the way for those encountering difficulties while traveling.
5/16/2015 - Carol Lane![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-1-grandparentsembrace.jpg)
a grandparent's grief being unique as they suffer for both their grandchild as well as their child.
5/2/2015 - Carol Lane![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015apr-haycock.jpg)
I could physically feel her presence there, and I know that those tickets were a gift from her.
4/28/2015 - Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015mar-hands.jpg)
Forgiveness isn't something I can see happening in one decision. There isn't just one thing I can do to fully forgive. It is simply a process.
4/27/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2014/20-1-attendingtapsevents.jpg)
Coming to a TAPS event alone can make us wonder how "we will fit in, how we will be treated, and what the event will be like".
4/4/2015 - Carol Lane![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015mar-beach.jpg)
When tragedy happens and deep thought is needed, I go to my favorite places, the beach or the garden. These spots help quiet my mind.
3/28/2015 - Carol Lane![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015mar-rachel.jpg)
Jeff continues to be a part of our lives because as the song says, a love like that isn’t easily forgotten.
3/27/2015 - Rachael Hill![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-1-grandparentsheart.jpg)
A grandparent's loss packs a double whammy. There is grief for your grandchild who died and grief for your child's devastating loss.
3/21/2015 - Carol Flack![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-1-foodprep.jpg)
Eating a variety of foods is essential to life. In other words, we need to eat to live. Food tips to consider as you navigate your own individual grief journey.
3/21/2015 - Victoria Hawk![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-1-grandparentsembrace.jpg)
This article will guide you in ways to turn your concern for the grandparents grief into positive action.
3/21/2015 - Alan Wolfelt![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015spring.jpg)
Volume 21, Issue 1
3/21/2015 - TAPS Quarterly Magazine![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-1-ellen.jpg)
Your TAPS family is available to you each day of the year. Through many TAPS resources and events, we find nourishment for our souls that sustain us.
3/21/2015 - Ellen Andrews![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-1-maria.jpg)
Recuerda el amor, Celebra la vida. Comparte el viaje. Remember the love. Celebrate the life. Share the journey.
3/21/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-1-trauma.jpg)
There is nothing that can prepare you for a sudden, traumatic death. But there are things you can do afterward to help yourself cope better.
3/21/2015 - Lisa Hudson![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/21-1-vacations.jpg)
Whether you are just starting out on your grief journey or are years past the date of the death, attending TAPS events may be just what you need this year.
3/21/2015 - Betsy Beard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2013mar-lipstein.jpg)
After his son died by suicide, Don Lipstein discovered TAPS. He was so impressed he became a TAPS Peer Mentor!
3/21/2015 - Don Lipstein![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015feb-dozier.jpg)
This Valentine's Day, my wish for you is love. Love your past. Love your story-the parts you hate and wished never happened, the parts you're still writing.
3/13/2015 - Amy Dozier![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015mar-lake.jpg)
This beautiful mountain scene is one chosen while I listened to the uplifting songs which survivors sent in answer to last week's question.
3/7/2015 - Carol Lane![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015mar-review.jpg)
It has been a cold winter here, but much to warm our hearts this past month as TAPS geared up for our 21st year of caring for the families of America’s fallen heroes.
3/3/2015 - TAPS![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015feb-ambard.jpg)
I act on the dreams that I have the power to achieve. I am no longer the broken winged bird that cannot fly. Someday is today.
3/3/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015mar-huey.jpg)
Surviving spouse, Sarah Greene shares how she learned the therapeutic effect taking vacations could have after losing her husband.
3/2/2015 - Sarah Greene![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015mar-divorce.jpg)
Survivor mom, Betsy Beard shares the "normal" part of the fog of grief and how to deal with it in a positive light so you can eventually move on.
3/1/2015 - Stephanie Frogge![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015mar-suicide.jpg)
Kim Ruocco shares how a military widow copes with a spousal suicide and how to answer the questions that remain.
3/1/2015 - Kim Ruocco![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015mar-somethingborrowed.jpg)
Sibling survivor, Kat Stanley shares her touching story about how she continued her wedding plans even though her military brother had just died.
3/1/2015 - Kat Stanley - Ester Allgower![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015feb-hill.jpg)
I know that the work is worth it in order to continue living the way I want to live, which is to simply be happy.
2/24/2015 - Rachael Hill![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015feb-booker.jpg)
I am a widow. It's not who I am; it is what I am, and I am also a proud mother, a great sister, wonderful friend, and still the wife of the late Andre Booker.
2/17/2015 - Shanette Booker![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jan-ambard.jpg)
Happiness is a choice. It isn't always easy to make that choice and certainly life is not always fair, but looking for contentment is easier than enduring a pity party.
1/27/2015 - Linda Ambard![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015jan-marcum.jpg)
Guilt. Regret. Sorrow. They all have their place. But so do joy, humor, and forgiveness.
1/20/2015 - Michele Hiester Marcum![img-description](/globalassets/our-stories/2015/2015feb-ambard.jpg)
It’s all about that attitude. While I cannot deny that I still have pity parties and days that I break down in tears, but every day I make the choice to be happy.
1/13/2015 - Linda Ambard