Velda: A Mother's Story of Suicide
Directed by Jesse Collier Sutterley
In the poignant and thought-provoking short film, a distressed mother, Velda, takes center stage as she recounts the tragic tale of her son, Michael, who battles inner demons after being sent to war. As she navigates through the gut-wrenching chronology of his enlistment on the eve of 9/11, his traumatizing experiences in combat, and his futile attempts at readjustment after returning home, the narrative unravels to reveal the silent and insidious toll of war on the mental health of soldiers. Compelled by her son's devastating suicide, Velda transforms her grief into a call for action, articulating her concerns about the military's approach to mental health issues in a letter to the president. This heart-rending short film underscores the often overlooked consequences of war, giving voice to those left in its devastating wake.
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Velda: A Mother's Story of Suicide
Directed by Jesse Collier Sutterley
In the poignant and thought-provoking short film, a distressed mother, Velda, takes center stage as she recounts the tragic tale of her son, Michael, who battles inner demons after being sent to war. As she navigates through the gut-wrenching chronology of his...
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Cemetery Profile: Sacramento National Cemetery
Sacred Grounds of Honor: Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, a haven of dignity and remembrance, adorned with the majestic Avenue of Flags and a Blue Star Memorial, stands as a testament to the nation's veterans, offering a tranquil final resting place under the dedicated stewardship of those wh...
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Volunteer Profile: Warden Velda Dobson Davis
From police dispatcher to correctional officer, Velda Dobson Davis' journey through California's correctional system is a powerful testament to resilience, redemption, and the impact of shared life experiences with the women she serves.
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Field Notes: Velda - Flowers for Mom
From Velda: A Mother's Story of Suicide, Velda Dobson tenderly recalls her son Michael's loving gesture of bringing her irises, a small act that filled their home with warmth and pride before his tragic passing.
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Field Notes: Velda - Light Skinned Baby
From "Velda: A Mother's Story of Suicide", Velda Dobson shares a vivid memory of her son Michael's birth, marked by the hospital's reaction to his interracial appearance.