Page 21 - Amarillo Senior Link Magazine Winter 2020- Online Magazine
P. 21
neuropathy (nerve damage) because of to care about. He grew close to the reorganized VIetnam War
his exposure. He must still be careful in family and eventually taught two of the library,
extreme weather conditions because he her sisters as well. The sisters adopted and found
can’t feel heat or cold on him as a grandfather and himself
his hands or feet. After 12 brought him into the family. in the middle of most activities. He
years of battling the VA, Their love and concern maintains a small garden in the
they finally granted him helped him stop the heavy summer where he grows vegetables
100% disability. drinking and lessened the for himself and others. To top it off, in
In order to cope with all times of depression. Today, February, he was elected “King of the
his problems, he did what he and the family go on Clairmont” by his fellow residents.
many veterans did - he cruises and other vacations “Selfless” is a word that comes to
turned to alcohol. Bouts together. mind when trying to describe Charles
of heavy drinking and However, as Charles’ mental Curfman. He has received a Purple
depression became more health improved, his physical Heart, two Bronze Stars, a “V” for
and more the norm. conditions worsened, and valor, and an army commendation
When things looked darkest, Charles he decided he needed a for his service. He taught children for
was sent four “angels”. Shereena different home. He didn’t need a lot many years and endeared himself
came first, disguised as a fifth of help, and he wanted to maintain to many, all while battling ghosts of
grader. She was followed by sisters his independence. The Clairmont, an the past and ailments of the present
Christina, Christal and Shannen. He independent living facility, gave him and heroically putting the needs of
and Shereena developed a strong just that. He gets three good meals a others before his own. The King of the
connection. She had no father in the day and has made lots of friends. Since Clairmont has earned his title through
picture, and Charles needed someone his arrival, he has started a walking a lifetime of service, loyalty and
club, helped decorate doors and halls, courage.
Tom Walters Inc.
Contact us for information on our day
13001 FM 179
trips and tours or check out our
Wolfforth, TX 79382
website!
806-863-3867
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1-888-420-3188 fax www.facebook.com/travelkingshighway
1-888-332-4315 toll free
www.travelkingshighway.com
Amarillo Senior Link 21
