What can I do to help my friend that was injured overseas?

Question

My close friend was seriously injured in Iraq. He's doing better so he will be sent home in a few days. I know he will be unhappy and bitter when he gets home; he will have to be in a wheel chair, which he hates with great passion, for a short time. He also doesn't remember what happened to him when he got hurt. What can our friends and I do to help him when he gets home? We're 23 years old, if it matters. I feel terrible for him. He's the most active, adventurous, dare devilish person I know, and he won't be able to walk for a while. What are some fun group things that he can still do?

Thank you.

Also, his parents and only brother died in a huge accident, so his friends are the only people he's got.

Answer 1

Gee I am so sorry.  Did you happen to watch an episode of Friday Night Lights where one of the guys was just out of the hospital and was in a wheelchair? Well I thought it was so great his buddies picked him up and put him in their pickup truck and took him out for a night on the town.  They didn't treat him differently or anything.  I thought it was great.  I mean of course someone who was in his situation would be the best to advise you.  If I were you I'd get a group of friends to insist on kidnapping him and taking him out for something you used to do together, but just be prepared if he needs to stop, go back or something.  Good Luck! You are so thoughtful.  He is lucky to have a friend like you.

Answer 2

I would have to say just be VERY supportive.  He is probably not going to wanna do much but don't let him sit around and get depressed.  See what he wants to do.  Don't push stuff on him because he will just pull further away.  I dont know if he likes cards, board games, ect....  When my husband was in Iraq two of his friends were hurt very bad one lost 2 legs and the other lost one.  I don't know where you are from but get with your community.  One of the guys was from Ohio and he loved OSU foootbal.  So he got to meet with the head coach and go out on the field.  Maybe you guys can get something together.  I hope this helped.  Take care and my prayers are with you and your friend.