Stryker Brigade News

Monday, November 22, 2004

Hi Todd

There was some confusion last week and I found out that Travis had not made the journey to GA as planned after all. I called The VA Hospital in GA to see about his room number, address, etc. and was told he was not there. At this point, I was getting a little concerned and needed to get some answers. It seemed like his flight was cancelled, not once, but twice! Saturday evening when I got to WR imagine my surprise when I found out that he was still at Walter Reed, and in ICU at that.

Immediately upon finding this information out, I made my way down to that floor (believe everyone when they tell you how big Walter Reed is, but I am learning to negotiate the floors and halls very nicely). At first I was told that Travis didn't want any visitors but I asked the Nurse if he would please tell him that his "Guardian Angel" was there, just to see if that made a difference. Lo and behold, that was my pass to enter his room. I should also tell you that Shelly Harlow and I met earlier in the evening and she was my "partner in crime" as we went about floor after floor, visiting with our country's finest.

Anyway I was delighted to see Travis and we had a very good talk, until he tired and was not feeling up to anymore company. He let me know that they would be sending him to GA on Monday... and, I just called WR and confirmed they did just that this morning.

I will forward the address to the VA Hospital in GA once I know for sure Travis is there. I would like to thank you and all of the Stryker families for continuing to keep Travis in prayer. He has a very long road ahead of him and will need all the prayers and support he can get.

I will be happy to send you reports on my visits to Walter Reed. Honestly, I could go there everyday (and almost do) just to try to spread a little cheer. It is the least I can do for our soldiers. I must say, McDonald's is very happy to see me too, because I always stop and buy milkshakes or chicken nuggets to pass out to as many soldiers as I can. I mentioned to the Manager about possibly getting McDonald's to "donate" some milkshakes to the soldiers but was told I would have to write a letter to the main head quarters. I'm thinking about doing that today ( o ;

There are many, many soldiers at WR and lately I have gotten emails from perfect strangers asking me to visit with their loved ones too (how awesome that they trust me to do this). And I promise I will always seek out someone that's been brought to my attention. I will keep you posted on my visits for as long as you want (warning - you may tire of me, as I think I have found my true calling).

God Bless you one and all. Have a very blessed Thanksgiving, for we have much to be thankful for.

Respectfully yours,

Cindy McGrew

Tuesday, November 23, 2004

Hi Todd

I just got off the phone with Travis and he is indeed in Augusta, GA. The address I have for him is:

Department of Veterans Hospital
VA Medical Center
Attn: Travis Majors IGF Room 104
1 Freedom Way
Augusta, GA 30904

I have a phone number for him, but he asked that no one call him today as he is in pain and will have people in and out all day long processing paperwork. I will pass the number along once I know he's up to some calls. Please post his address though so his friends can send cards.

I sat with Mike Oreo for a little while last night so his mom could get some rest. This is another family that has become very near and dear to me. I feel like we've known one another for such a long time.

I've just gotten word that Orange County Choppers will be at Walter Reed next week visiting the soldiers..... I'm thinking I might be coming down with a cold and have to miss work that day... ha

Have a great Thanksgiving! ~ God Bless

Cindy McGrew