Larry’s remains were not laid to rest for 35 more years, when Tyra was able to keep her promise made as a young wife to bury him at Arlington. (The details of that are a story in itself, which you can read in her book.) In the meantime, Tyra has made it her mission to remove the stigma associated with mental illness and to encourage others to forge on and create a new life for themselves, even when circumstances are not what they’d have chosen.
Determined to get well and fulfill promises she and Larry had made to
each other about their future goals, Tyra went on to finish her degree in teaching, earn her doctorate in education, and go on to become one of the nation’s top school superintendents.
While the word “inspiring” can sound trite, Dr. Tyra Manning is just that, inspiring…demonstrating that love and courage can trump war and loss.
Since reading her book, I’ve exchanged emails and talked on the phone with Tyra. She is energetic and full of compassion. I hope you’ll enjoy hearing from her as much as I did.
You and I have discovered more similarities between military spouses in the Vietnam era and spouses today than I’d realized: the loneliness, worry, and downright fatigue. Regardless of whether it’s a deployment related issue or a previously underlying issue, what advice would you give military spouses today needing to take that first step of help for depression, addiction, or other problems?
Tyra: “The world is a much smaller place today than it was 30 years ago, thanks to technology. Military spouses can find and connect with both peers and experts 24/7, which can help overcome some of the loneliness. But I always recommend that the best first step is to confide in someone you trust – such as a spiritual adviser or a family doctor – who has the objectivity to connect you to appropriate treatment resources.”
For those of us who may recognize a friend needing help, what can we do?
Tyra: “The journey toward stability, sobriety, or recovery can be a long one, but it begins with one single step and a decision. If you or someone you care about is suffering from mental illness or addiction or compulsive behaviors, reach out. Get help. Have hope. Don’t give up.”
