Pillows for Veterans

A year into the American Revolution against Great Britain, a committee of five, led by Thomas Jefferson, wrote a formal Declaration of Independence. The publication was written July 2, 1776 and approved two days later by the Second Continental Congress.

“The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more." John Adams wrote to his wife Abigail, July 3, 1776.

Generations later, Americans commemorate the brave soldiers who fought and died for this country as well as give thanks to those who protect our rights and freedoms today.

John Privitera, the Activity Director for Kaulbach Assisted Living, had a creative idea to make small patriotic pillows for San Antonio's veterans. With the help of several Morningside residents, Mr. Privitera planned to give the pillows to the veterans of the VA Hospital's Spinal Injury Unit over 4th of July weekend.

After announcing his activity, Mr. Privitera purchased the material believing he could immediately begin making pillows. Much to his surprise, pillows weren't an easy activity at all. With the help of a gracious woman--Ms. Marilyn Peterson—Mr. Privitera spent the next few days learning to sew.

Once Mr. Privitera was acquainted with a needle and thread, he tirelessly sewed his patriotic pillows every Thursday thereafter. Ms. Peterson, Ms. George, Ms. Hansen, Ms. Seiller and Ms. Taylor, residents of Kaulbach Assisted Living helped by stuffing the pillows alongside Mr. Privitera.

Friday, July 2nd, The VA Hospital's Spinal Injury Unit was pleasantly surprised with these tokens of appreciation. Mr. Privitera and the Morningside residents proudly passed out many of the pillows, saving only a few for the veterans who will be returning from the Vet Games in Denver on July 10th.

Mr. Privitera and several residents of Morningside Ministries plan to meet these brave men at the airport to show their gratitude and appreciation for all the soldiers who have selflessly protected our nation's freedom.

Americans like Mr. Privitera, Ms. Peterson, Ms. George, Ms. Hansen, Ms. Seiller and Ms. Taylor are important to Morningside Ministries. The thought and care that went into creating these pillows is what makes the employees and residents of Morningside Ministries so undeniably great.