Beef Jerky Thanksgiving
Date: November 24, 2008

Sometimes, the smallest acts make the biggest difference. When the Rehabilitation Services department heard of an opportunity to support the troops serving in Iraq, they didn’t hesitate to take it.
One of Floyd’s Athletic Trainers, Katrina Worley, has a boyfriend, J.R., who serves overseas as a Captain in the Army. When Katrina’s co-workers learned this, they wanted to “adopt” him and send him care packages.

“The Floyd Physical Therapy and Rehab staff wanted to show their compassion and heartfelt gratitude to let the troops know they are appreciated,” said Karen Sablon, Director of Rehabilitation Services.

Katrina shared this idea with J.R. who suggested the department adopt six other soldiers, he knew, never received care packages instead. That notion touched the heart of Katrina’s co-workers–and they responded. 

Katrina found out what the troops needed, and she, Karen and the rehab staff began gathering the items. Co-workers donated deodorant, sewing kits, hand wipes, toothpaste, Q-tips and fingernail clippers. They also collected food items that would ship well, like beef jerky, candy, snacks and crackers. They wrote meaningful messages of appreciation and gratitude on little note cards.

The troops in Iraq treasured the care packages and wanted to thank the team at Floyd, but the rehab staff had forgotten to include a return address! Instead, J.R. delivered the thanks in person. While home on leave, he visited the rehab staff and told them the troops loved the care packages, especially the beef jerky! He said the soldiers enjoyed opening the boxes, not only because of the gifts, but because it was a great community time for them–a time when they could sit down and share moments of escape together and think of a more peaceful place.

As Christmas time approaches, the rehab staff is planning to send a second round of care packages. J.R. has requested lots of beef jerky and some blank note cards so the troops can respond this time. He even added five more troops to the list! These messages will be sent with warm wishes for the holidays in the next shipment to Iraq:  

“Hello! I just want to thank you so much for the great job you are doing to protect our country and make it a safer place for our families and all the people in the U.S.A. You and your family will be in my prayers as you serve our country. I also would like to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and a Merry, Merry Christmas. Have a safe holiday season and God bless you. I hope you enjoy your care package.”

“Words are not enough to express my gratitude to you for your service and sacrifice. I pray for you and your family. I pray for your strength and your health. I pray that you and everyone around you will come home safe. I pray that you know Jesus as your personal savior and that you can share his blessings with those around you. Thank you for allowing me and my family to live without fear and being able to enjoy the freedom you are providing.”

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