We were lucky to catch up with Tammy Windham recently and have shared our conversation below.
Tammy, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Empowering Caregivers: A Journey of Resilience and Hope
As I sit down to share my story, I am filled with a mix of emotions – gratitude, determination, and a profound sense of purpose. My name is Tammy, and for the past nine years, I’ve been a wife and caregiver to my husband, Scott, who is permanently disabled due to his military service-connected disabilities. Our journey together has been marked by challenges, resilience, and moments of profound revelation.
In May 2022, amidst the backdrop of numerous surgeries and health complications of my own, I found myself at a crossroads. As I awaited yet another surgery, a voice, clear and resolute, seemed to pierce through the chaos around me, urging me to trust in something greater. It was a moment of surrender, of acknowledging that sometimes, the path ahead may be fraught with difficulties, but ultimately, there is a guiding force, a source of strength beyond comprehension.
My journey took an unexpected turn when post-operative complications led to a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. During my own recovery, I remained Scott’s caregiver, navigating the challenges of illness and rehabilitation with unwavering dedication. Yet, amidst the loneliness and hardships, I couldn’t help but notice a glaring gap in support services for caregivers like me.
Driven by a desire to find purpose amidst adversity, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery. Through an online business program with Dog Tag Bakery and Loyola University, I found a lifeline – a community that understood the unique struggles of caregivers and provided avenues for personal and professional growth. It was here that I found my calling, my passion reignited by the possibility of creating meaningful change.
Armed with newfound clarity and resolve, I founded Hold the Fort Down, a nonprofit dedicated to providing a sanctuary for caregivers. Our vision is simple yet profound – to create a space where caregivers can find fellowship, support, and harmony. Through retreats, workshops, and community gatherings, we aim to nurture the mind, body, and soul of those who selflessly dedicate themselves to others.
Since its inception, Hold the Fort Down has evolved from a mere concept to a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, fueled by the unwavering commitment to serve those who have served our country. Our goal is ambitious – to provide refuge and renewal to 400 spouses annually, with aspirations to double that number within the next three to five years.
But beyond the numbers lies a deeper truth – a shared journey of healing, hope, and resilience. In the face of adversity, we stand united, bound by the common thread of caregiving. Together, we seek to create a community where joy thrives, where burdens are shared, and where hope endures.
As I reflect on the journey that has brought me here, I am reminded of the power of faith, of resilience, and of the transformative potential of community. Hold the Fort Down is more than just a nonprofit – it is a testament to the indomitable spirit of caregivers everywhere, a beacon of light in times of darkness.
As we look to the future, I am filled with hope – hope for a world where caregivers are valued, supported, and celebrated; where their sacrifices are honored, and their needs are met with compassion and empathy. Together, let us hold the fort down, not just for ourselves, but for each other, for our loved ones, and for generations to come. It is time to breathe life into these caregivers.
In unity and purpose,
Tammy
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
This year marks the launch of Hold the Fort Down, a burgeoning non-profit organization dedicated to providing vital support to caregivers of our disabled military personnel. At this nascent stage of our journey, we are laying the foundation for a robust program of caregiver retreats aimed at offering respite, rejuvenation, and a sense of community to those who selflessly devote themselves to caring for others.
In collaboration with Let’s Chow, we are actively engaging our local community through a series of culinary events, laying the groundwork for future partnerships and fundraising initiatives. Looking ahead, we are excited about the prospect of securing a food truck from Let’s Chow in 2024, which will further enhance our outreach efforts and visibility within the community.
Simultaneously, we are diligently exploring options for acquiring property to serve as the backdrop for our caregiver retreats. Our vision includes providing accommodation for up to eight caregivers at a time, with individual tiny houses ensuring privacy and comfort. Our retreat offerings will encompass a diverse range of activities, from exhilarating outdoor adventures such as mountain biking, kayaking, and rafting, to restorative indoor experiences facilitated by our team of counselors, massage therapists, and estheticians.
While our focus is on providing enriching experiences for caregivers, we recognize the importance of fostering lasting connections and a sense of camaraderie. To this end, we plan to host annual reunions for caregivers, offering them a supportive network and a platform for sharing their experiences and challenges.
In addition to our caregiver retreats, our envisioned property will feature an Event Center, equipped with a full kitchen to cater to weddings and business events. This multifaceted approach not only serves our mission of supporting caregivers but also allows us to generate revenue for Hold the Fort Down, ensuring the sustainability and growth of our organization.
Ultimately, our goal is to become a comprehensive resource for caregivers, providing a sanctuary for relaxation, personal growth, and community building. By offering a holistic approach to caregiver support, we aim to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of those who dedicate themselves to caring for our nation’s heroes.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
One of my most prominent attributes is my unwavering determination. When I set a goal for myself, I pursue it relentlessly, refusing to accept failure as an option. I firmly believe that dedicating oneself wholeheartedly to a pursuit is the key to success.
Perseverance has been a constant companion throughout my life, a trait instilled in me since childhood. While some may perceive it as stubbornness, I view it as a steadfast commitment to achieving my objectives, no matter the obstacles encountered along the way.
Above all else, my faith has been the cornerstone of my existence. It has provided me with the strength, resilience, and guidance needed to navigate life’s challenges. Through faith, I have found fulfillment and purpose, recognizing that all that I need is already within my grasp.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
From a young age, my parents imparted invaluable lessons about the significance of hard work and ambition. They instilled in me the belief that settling for mediocrity is never an option when greatness is within reach. Furthermore, they emphasized the importance of companionship, teaching me to rely on my faith and trust in a higher power, capable of achieving the seemingly impossible.
Blessed with a foundation of strong morals, I learned from my parents that our existence is not solely about personal gain but also about serving others. Their teachings underscored the importance of empathy and grace in our interactions with others, reminding me that everyone faces their own battles, making compassion and understanding indispensable virtues in our journey through life.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.holdthefortdown.org
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095020786768
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holdthefortdown/
