Earning a college degree isn't limited to young adults
fresh out of high school. People of all ages are returning to college or
university to continue their education to advance their careers. This is no
different for retired army soldier, Eric Butera. During his service, Eric
Butera took many courses to increase his knowledge and skill set but he is
taking his post-service years in a new direction.
As a soldier, Eric Butera was introduced to the stress
and trauma that affect war weary soldiers. As horrible as the results of war
can be, the post-war years can be just as difficult. There are many veterans
who relive the horror of war repeatedly in their waking hours and in their
sleep. Regrets can hinder their moving forward upon returning to a civilian
lifestyle.
Eric Butera opted to participate in an internship at the
George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center. As someone with
medical training and a soldier who can sympathize, Eric Butera knew that
working with others to overcome troubles with therapy was something he could do
and support.
The internship called "small internship" led
Eric Butera to perform physical actions such as rock climbing. The rock
climbing was one method the medical center used to help rebuild a soldier's
feelings of self-worth and self-esteem. Eric Butera was also selected for a
rope course in 2012. The course was designed to build self-confidence and
self-worth while learning how to safely climb with rope.
The internship helped Eric Butera realize a direction for
the future. He became a strong advocate for therapy and sports was a great way
to improve a person's perception about themselves. Now, Eric Butera continues
to work with veterans at the medical center. He is a regular volunteer to
assist disabled Veterans. He assists in sports such as wrestling, soccer, and
volleyball.
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