Ali's Story

Ali (left) and Fallon (right) pose for Guideposts magazine who will be publishing their story.

Ali is a 48 year old woman who has overcome many obstacles in her life. Ali spent 13 years in the Air Force as a Registered Nurse, working to improve the lives of everyone she came into contact with. Today Ali struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Ali’s disorders have changed her life forever and she spends every day working to overcome the barriers caused by these disorders.  Ali is currently in the Women Veterans Transitional Housing Program, with Volunteers of America, and living at the The Family Motel, a homeless shelter. Homelessness can be a trigger at times for people suffering from PTSD and depression. Even in a challenging environment Ali goes above and beyond to do her part in maintaining the overall facility and to make everyone she encounters feel welcomed and safe. Ali has always been a care giver, but today Ali is learning how to let other people help and care for her.

Ali is working with the Denver VA, and the Women’s Veteran Program, to manage her disorders, expand her education and find employment. Ali is never at rest, if she is not working to improve her housing situation or employment obtainment Ali spends her time volunteering with the Lakewood library. It takes a very kind and caring person to give her only spare time to helping others. As Ali’s veteran advocate I feel Ali deserves recognition not only for all the work she does but because of her never ending strength and fearlessness. Ali pushes herself to be a better person and is always thinking how her actions might be affecting others. 

As told by Fallon Gillespie, Volunteers of America Women's Veteran Program Women’s Veteran Advocate.