Wounded Veterans Create One-of-a-Kind Art

STAFFORD, Va., May 24, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Even the toughest of warriors can find healing while expressing their artistic sides. Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) recently united a group of injured service members to paint pottery, enjoy dinner, and share their experiences. Bringing warriors and their families together created a much-needed support system.

When Alumni and their families first arrived, they visited with other military veteran families as they enjoyed a BBQ dinner. Soon after, participants explored the many pottery options, sparking design ideas for their creations.

"I appreciated being surrounded by such beautiful art and being able to pick out the piece I wanted to design," Gail Schnell, U.S. Army Reserve veteran and WWP Alumna commented. "I loved the camaraderie while we shared a meal together."

Throughout the evening, the group had creative freedom designing their one-of-a-kind pottery pieces.

"I've never painted a personal piece before and have been wanting to do it," said Gail. "I'm thankful for the opportunity from WWP. The painting event sounded like a lot of fun, and it didn't disappoint. I found it relaxing to focus on something artistic, and it helped relieve stress." 

Many wounded service members face challenges adjusting to injuries and civilian life. Coming together at free WWP programs and services can help them bond and move closer toward recovery.

"Coming home from my U.S. Army deployment in Afghanistan, I faced many challenges, and felt alone and forgotten," Gail said. "I am so thankful to have found WWP and wish I found this great organization sooner."

Gail says she's gained new knowledge, skills, and friendships from every WWP event. "It was a pleasant surprise to be reunited with a veteran I bonded with in Texas at a WWP workshop, at the pottery painting in Virginia," she exclaimed.

Gail chose to decorate a bowl in pinks because it would make a great gift. "I fell in love with it and ended up keeping it as a gift to myself. Now, I have the bowl at work to remember the wonderful experience that came with creating it," Gail said. "Plus, it's better for the environment than disposable bowls, so it's a win-win."

She expresses gratitude to WWP for teaching her how to make smarter health and wellness choices. "I've learned how to make healthy meals, practice yoga, and am working out now," Gail said.

Gail volunteers for many organizations and claims this helps her understand the support she receives from WWP and admire how helpful staff members are.

"I appreciate how WWP encourages not only me but all the other warriors with different situations. WWP has made a huge impact on my life, and we need this community," Gail continues. "When I feel like I'm running low from all I do and give, WWP comes around to lift me up and make me stronger, allowing me to get out there and give more of myself. Thank you WWP for helping me so that I can help others." 

To read more warrior's stories of recovery and empowerment, visit https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/mission/meet-a-warrior.

About Wounded Warrior Project
The mission of Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) is to honor and empower Wounded Warriors. WWP's purpose is to raise awareness and to enlist the public's aid for the needs of injured service members, to help injured servicemen and women aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. WWP is a national, nonpartisan organization headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. To get involved and learn more, visit https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/.

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SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project