Gail,

Love for your brother, and having been there and done that is what started me. I had an Advocate who supported me in my efforts, he taught me how to think like some of the people in the VA Regional Office. From there, I just started putting my two cents worth in where ever I felt that it would be helpful. After a while I bought all of the books (Benefits Books, Legal Books and documents, and even some medical books for medical definitions) and I started looking up all of the answers to the problems that I was having and later the problems that others were having.

After that it was just caring for my brothers, word got around and I have become respected here in Houston, and through many parts of Texas. I am considered a source, since I have been there and taken the time to learn how to see all sides of the story and to try to translate the information for those who need it or for those who are too sick to work with the system. I charge nothing, and I only ask for one thing in repayment, that they help another brother, even if it is to bring him to me so that I can help.

Caroline is an advocate, she found me because of my service and we have struck up a long distance friendship and love for our brothers. She helps at the VA, the DAV and she helps individuals who need help. She is a good source for you to know, she can give you many Ideas that I might not see. Other people are the source of our advocacy we help when we can, by cutting red tape, speaking for them, or just plain helping them.

Loveya,
Dave