I, Amy McCambridge, along with other concerned individuals, are petitioning for Combat Veteran, Mark Steppe’s immediate transfer from the psychiatric unit at the East Orange Veterans hospital to Warrior Heart in Texas or the Stonington Institute, Starlight Rehab for Veterans in Connecticut.
Mark Steppe, a brave individual who dedicated his life to serving our country, underwent extensive exposure therapy as part of his treatment. However, upon returning home, he did not receive the appropriate care management necessary for his successful reintegration into society. As a result, he experienced an immediate relapse and is currently confined to the psychiatric ward at the East Orange Veterans Hospital. This situation has left him stripped of the hope he had left and has caused him to become simply a name in a broken and corrupt system. Mark is currently being over-medicated and chemically restrained in the psychiatric ward. Regrettably, his dignity is being slowly stripped away as he is also being deprived of his cane, thereby rendering him unable to walk independently.
It is beyond disheartening to witness a veteran, who sacrificed so much for our nation, face such challenges within a system that is meant to support and help them. Therefore, we demand immediate action to have Mark Steppe transferred to Warrior Heart in Texas or The Starlight Veterans Program from the Stonington Institute, where he can receive the comprehensive healing he deserves. This transfer would not only address the trauma of war but also address the trauma caused by the very programs designed to aid our veterans.
Furthermore, we are deeply concerned about the rising suicide rate amongst our veterans despite the significant increase in budget allocations for their welfare. We question the efficacy and effectiveness of the current approach and seek answers from our leaders. Our veterans deserve better, and it is imperative that steps be taken to rectify this situation.
We urge the public to hold our leaders accountable and put pressure on them to facilitate Mark’s immediate transfer to Warrior Heart in Texas or The Stonington Insitute, Starlight Veterans Rehab in Connecticut. We also request a full investigation into the failure of these government-run programs that are meant to support our veterans.
Your support and prompt action in this matter are greatly appreciated. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those who have selflessly served our country.
Thank you.
Sincerely, Amy McCambridge
https://www.change.org/p/save-combat-veteran-mark-steppe?signed=true
