Dear Friends:
This is Gift From Within’s 20th year as a nonprofit organization for survivors of trauma and victimization. I have seen so many changes in the last 20 years and most of them have been for the good, but I still see areas that need work….particularly the stigma surrounding PTSD.
I want to thank Dr. Frank Ochberg, GFW’s trauma expert and founder.
When I founded GFW in 1993 most people asked what is PTSD and why does it need an organization? My response was that I help people learn about posttraumatic stress disorder and I help family members understand it. Today people are familiar with the term, even if they do not fully understand what it means for a trauma survivor. Most people realize now that PTSD is not just the result of war and combat, but can be caused by many other traumatic situations in everyday life. I’m glad people understand this, although I wish it had happened earlier.
Today many fine organizations exist to help victims of crime, abuse and war, so I feel that I am in good company. I have learned a lot over the last 20 years and have made such good friends, many of whom have gone through trauma and are not only making good recoveries, but helping others in similar situations. That is why I named our organization Gift From Within. You help yourself and then you take that gift and help others.
I do hope I have made a difference. I will continue as long as I can. When we first started I had a full time job and worked on GFW (before the Internet) on weekends. If you can help by giving us a donation it would be very much appreciated. If you are unable to donate, I understand. Times are tough for many of us. And of course, most of the resources we make available on GiftFromWithin.org are free to share with others.
I am proud of what we have accomplished and want to continue to provide credible educational materials for all the survivors and their loved ones. Your courage, honesty, and compassion continue to inspire me to keep going forward.