Our mission is to raise awareness about the critical mental health challenges faced by veterans, with a focus on preventing suicide and providing essential support to the families impacted by this tragedy. We aim to build a community of support, provide resources for healing, and raise funds to ensure that no veteran or their family faces this battle alone. Through advocacy, education, and outreach, we strive to create a lasting impact on the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our country.
Donate NowOn November 28, 2024, I became a green star widow, a term that signifies a widow who has lost a military member to suicide. My late husband, Mitchell Bassett Jr., was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. I endured not only his tragic death but also the pain of his prior suicide attempt just months before. Throughout our journey together, I faced the challenges of his alcoholism, depression, and PTSD, which he battled daily. My mission is to raise awareness about the devastating reality of veteran suicide, which claims the lives of at least 22 individuals each day. While my ultimate aim is prevention, I also seek to offer support to those impacted by this tragedy, helping them navigate their grief and loss. It is imperative to illuminate the consequences of such situations, as the effects of these 22 daily tragedies extend beyond the families left behind, permeating the wider community and demanding attention. By sharing my personal story, I aspire to encourage veterans who are struggling to seek help. There is immense strength and bravery in asking for and accepting assistance. Additionally, I aim to reassure families who are grieving that there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel. I am committed to providing help and support to those affected wherever possible.
My name is Natalie Brett, and I am the proud wife of Sergeant Daniel John Brett. On July 5th, 2023, I became a Green Star Widow. Daniel unexpectedly took his own life due to work related stress that triggered his PTSD. That day, I lost my husband, my best friend, my soulmate and the world lost one of the kindest, most selfless men I’ve ever known. Daniel was a protector in every sense of the word. He served his country honorably in the United States Army for 10 years as a Military Police Officer. Daniel served a 15-month deployment during Operation Iraqi Freedom, but his service didn’t stop when he took off the uniform. He protected his family, his coworkers, and even strangers with the same fierce love and loyalty he showed his brothers-in-arms. His heart was enormous, and his soul was pure. Anyone who knew Daniel knew how deeply he loved and how hard he fought for those he cared about. Daniel didn’t just love me, he loved us! Between us, we had six kids. He walked into an already full house and made it his own with humility and grace. He wasn’t just a dad, he was the dad. The volleyball dad, the hockey dad, the JROTC dad, the swim team dad, the Air Force Academy dad. He cheered the loudest, cared the deepest, and wrapped more sprained ankles than I can count. He made our home a place of laughter and partnership. He'd do dishes, laundry, and even make the bed with me still in it. We figured out our rhythm. We supported one another, we respected each other, our love was balanced, and real soul deep. Daniel was tough. Some people were even intimidated by him, but with me, he was gentle. After even the hardest day, he would come home and rub my feet. He never stopped telling me I was beautiful, never stopped showing me love. He made me feel like the luckiest woman in the world, but truthfully, it was all of us who were lucky to have him. Now, my heart is shattered. Our six children lost their dad. I lost my forever, and I live life broken but determined, to speak out, and not just for Daniel, but for every family touched by invisible wounds that result in suicide. If you are struggling, please hear me now: You are not alone. Reach out, and speak up. Let someone in, and there is no shame in needing help. Daniel used to say, “I’ve got your six.” I am now saying it. Check on each other, Love each other, and Do not wait.
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