The three recipients of the Great Comebacks^® Tony Snow Public Service Award are making headlines for important efforts to help others in 2012!

Latoya Lucas, our 2009 recipient, was recently appointed to the Department of Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. This committee makes recommendations to the Secretary of Veterans affairs that identify and address the needs of women veterans.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to be a voice for women veterans across the nation,” said Latoya, retired Army specialist who was awarded the Purple Heart for her service in Iraq.

“I hope to work to ensure that women veterans receive proper screenings for traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder. Another one of my goals is to encourage more women veterans to learn about and access treatments they need within the Department of Veteran Affairs system of care.”

Latoya was also recognized by U.S. Senator Richard Burr for her appointment.

Chief Warrant Officer Bob Cuyler, the 2008 Tony Snow recipient, returned home from active duty in Afghanistan this fall. While overseas, he was actively involved in fundraising and in efforts to raise awareness for the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) veterans outreach program. He plans to continue to support this cause at home.

LTC (R) Justin F. Blum is joining in the effort to help others through the UOAA program. Justin has also been speaking about his experiences to local ostomy support groups.

“Although I have lived with an ostomy for 19 years, I am still learning about living with a stoma. At support groups, I am meeting many people both older and younger than me who feel the same way,” said Justin. “My advice to others who want to get involved would be to tell people about your experience either one-on-one or in support groups.”

In 2012, Justin is particularly focused on reaching out to more members of the military who are living with an ostomy to offer advice on physical and mental recovery challenges. He was recently recognized by the Red Cross for his work to engage students in Red Cross blood drives and disaster relief efforts. More information may be found here.

More information about the Latoya, Bob and Justin is available on the Great Comebacks^® Community page.