Understanding the Journey Behind My Coasters

Why I Post Individual Coasters

So, if you are wondering why I've been posting individual coasters every few days, here's the answer!

Creating these coasters is not a simple task. It takes considerable effort to set everything up and produce them. I may be a bit slow, but I spend several hours getting everything just right. This includes testing how the laser settings will work, perfecting the alignment, battling with the layout, and selecting the right color scheme.

The Daily Struggles

I face various limitations every day. Energy levels fluctuate based on how my body feels and the intensity of my headaches. Some days, I might not accomplish anything at all. These challenges are common among Veterans, and they can vary widely. Factors include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and physical health issues.

The Production Process

About two weeks ago, I made approximately 35-40 of the "Iron Vs. Iron Stronger Together" coasters for our Church's Men's conference. This production came after much trial and error in figuring out the manufacturing process. Following unexpected procurement struggles, it took around 10 hours of careful and patient, step-by-step production. It often felt like a situation of "hurry up and wait," especially as the laser etched four coasters at a time. Afterwards, I needed about three days to recover from both the physical and mental stress of the production.

The Impact of My Disability

It may sound silly to some, but these challenges are very real for me. If my disability rating weren't so high at 90%/100%, I might find this task much easier. But the reality is that this journey is marked by various obstacles. Creating these coasters is not just a hobby, but a labor of love that requires immense patience and dedication.

Helping Veterans Through Donations

The primary goal of producing these coasters is to help fund activities and services that support our Veterans. I offer them for donations, guiding support towards important causes. Your contributions aid in making a tangible difference in the lives of those who have served.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey and the story behind the coasters!

Join the Cause

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