The Center for the Intrepid


I just got back from San Antonio, where a small group of novelists was privileged to spend a day at the Brooke Army Medical Center and the Center for the Intrepid, meeting with patients and staff.

The Center for the Intrepid is an incredible, state of the art rehabilitation facility that helps severely wounded soldiers and their families. Their patients are amputees who have withstood untold pain and horror. Built by private donations, the center provides a comprehensive program for helping the wounded psychologically as well as physically.

Here's a good overview of what the center does.

Every man and woman I met had been severely wounded in horrible ways. Every one of them had an indomitable spirit that reshaped my understanding of what courage is. Meeting them was a humbling but inspiring experience. They reminded me of the greatness we are all capable of, even in the face of unfathomable pain and violence.

The staff and patients thanked us for coming, but we were the one who owe thanks. Not just for their service, but for their inspiration.