A disabled veteran in Vineland, New Jersey enjoys taking his therapy ducks to assisted living centers, nursing homes, and even schools to let others experience what it is like to interact with ducks, and it isn't surprising to see what a blessing it is for others. His animals have helped the veteran with his own PTSD, and it is also giving joy to others.
A disabled veteran in New Jersey is doing a great service in his community by sharing his love for ducks with the elderly and children in his community. It has helped him with his Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and it has been a blessing to others also.
South NJ Veteran has a History of Serving in the Military
6ABC News reported that "South New Jersey native Jeremy Piatt came from a military family" and wanted to join after graduating high school to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. He signed up and served on active duty in the U.S. Navy starting in 2003 for four years. Then Jeremy chose to serve in the U.S. Army starting in 2007 and was on active duty for five years until 2013.
He says, "It's the least I could do for the country," but he has candidly struggled with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the years since, now living as a disabled veteran.
He opened up about his struggle with PTSD, which is where his ducks enter the picture.
He said:
"PTSD is kind of a thorn in a person's side and I've been struggling with work," said Piatt. "I believe that this is my calling to share my love with animals with other people." -Jeremy Piatt (Source: 6ABC News)
PTSD is something that other veterans can struggle with, and it is great that Jeremy has found such a positive way to help both himself and others with something he is truly passionate about.
Jeremy Loves Animals, Including his Ducks Carmel and Peepers
Jeremy is quite fond of his therapy ducks, "Carmel" and "Peepers," which he hatched and has raised himself. In a sense, you could say that he is now sharing his love of his birds with others.
On Sunday, 19 March 2023, Jeremy brought his therapy ducks to the assisted living facility, Spring Oak at Vineland to hopefully brighten someone's day.
He said:
"It's therapeutic for them and it's also therapeutic for me." -Jeremy Piatt (Source: 6ABC News)
One resident, Dolores Lombardo shared that she was brought up on a farm, and loves animals. In the photo below, he is sharing his therapy ducks with a retired military veteran, and thanks him for his service, and the senior returns the gesture.
Most of all, Jeremy is thinking about senior citizens on this occasion. He doesn't want them to feel depressed.
He said;
"Coming into the nursing home, it's no place for somebody to be depressed. They're still living their life," he said. "As long as I'm alive, I'm definitely going to keep on doing this and serving my country." -Jeremy Piatt (Source: 6ABC News)
He is providing a great service and helping others at the same time. Jeremy truly is an everyday hero.
Jeremy Posts on Instagram
Jeremy posts pictures of his therapy ducks and some of his community events on the Instagram account: reducktion.duck.
In the video, Jeremy's therapy ducks, "Carmel" and "Peepers" are seen below in a special animal stroller interacting with senior residents.
Final Thoughts
Jeremy Piatt is a very humble and down-to-earth veteran that just wants to share his therapy ducks with others that could use a little uplifting. That in my book is a hero.
"Thank you for your military service and your willingness to help others in the community."
Please share this positive article on social media so others can be informed about the news story about this outstanding person.
Sources
Jeremy's Instagram account for therapy ducks: reducktion.duck.
Iadonisi, Matteo. "South Jersey veteran brings therapy ducks to senior living facilities." 6ABC News. 19 March 2023
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