By Gregg and Donna Lee, parents of AW2 Soldier, Cpl. Quentin A. Lee

Everything changed when we received that dreaded phone call on August 22, 2007. That was when we were informed that our son, Cpl. Quentin A. Lee, had been severely injured in combat. That was the worst day of our lives. 

Our son's injuries include traumatic brain injury (TBI), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a bilateral tympanic membrane rupture from the blast, which have left him with severe hearing loss. We had the opportunity to watch him receive the Purple Heart award for his courageous service.

Immediately after being injured, Quentin was evacuated to BAMC (Brooke Army Medical Center) in San Antonio. We moved to Texas for two months to be with our son, as we knew he needed his family by his side, and we needed him as well. Although Quentin wasn't able to communicate very well at the time, when we told him we were coming to Texas, his response was "That lights up my world." That is when we knew that our son would be okay.

While in Texas, we were among some of the most amazing men and women we have ever met. Many of the wounded Soldiers did not have Family members who could be there, so we treated them like our own sons and daughters. It was truly the best and worst time of our lives. It was so hard to say goodbye to everyone at BAMC when we took Quentin home with us in November. Quentin is currently receiving care at MAMC (Madigan Army Medical Center) and continues to make progress in his recovery, despite occasional setbacks.

This week, we are both attending the Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2)  Symposium as delegates. At the Symposium we are working with other Family members, as well as wounded Soldiers, caregivers, and subject matter experts to advance the most important Soldier care issues. This Symposium is our time to give back and we are honored to do our small part to help our wounded warriors.   

Quentin was not able to make the long trip to come with us, but he is so happy that we are here to help make a difference for other wounded Soldiers. In his recovery, Quentin has demonstrated the same bravery and selflessness that he showed on the battlefield. We are so proud of Quentin and his service to our country. Our son is our hero. And, now, it is our turn to serve him.

Photo: Donna and Gregg Lee, 2008 AW2 Symposium delegates