At first, my motivation was revenge. Now, it's my life's mission. Last year, I wouldn't have been able to testify in such a calm and composed manner. I did a lot of yoga and pulled through all by myself. I speak in my name to share my story. I've only recently become strong enough to talk about it. I was curled up in a ball and taking horrible pills for years.
As for the hunger strike, it was indeed to have a doctor, but also to draw attention to what happens to veterans with no doctors. It's not working at all. It's ludicrous. I came back from Afghanistan with 14 diagnosed health issues and couldn't get a doctor. It's ludicrous.
Back in the army, I only went to the doctor if something was broken or torn. I never abused health services, but I need a prescription and a check-up from time to time, just like anyone else. Will I have to become an astronaut to get a doctor? What do I have to do for my country to deserve one? What about my buddies?
I was talking to one of my buddies yesterday. He's the greatest warrior I've ever met. He went to Afghanistan four times. He's not one of those show-off bodybuilder with huge arms who need their special vitamins. He's a true warrior who's completely devoted to his country. I'm no slouch myself as far as warriors go, but he's on another level. I went to Afghanistan once. He went four times. Yesterday, he wanted to kill himself. He's got so many issues. He has no doctor. He takes a ton of pills.
I'm sorry, I'm going off on a tangent here, but this is so emotional. I'm sorry. The doctor situation, for me, is the icing on the cake. That's why I'm so frustrated. It's having to pay to go to a private clinic even if I pay taxes like everyone and served in the military, which is more like a sacrifice nowadays. And then I have to go to the private sector? Absolutely ridiculous.