My Nonprofit Reviews

I can’t express how much the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) has meant to me and my family as we navigate our way through this new life – new journey.

David and I were married for 16 years. He obtained the rank of Colonel one month before he died. As a US Army Reservist, my husband deployed several times after 9/11. His last deployment was to the ‘Green Zone’ or International Zone in Iraq. I remember this tour being ‘the tour that was never supposed to happen’ as he wasn’t supposed to deploy again – at least for the near term. However, 12 days after landing back in the US (relocating from Germany), we were notified of David’s imminent departure.

David returned from his tour complaining of headaches – mild ones – during the months leading up to his diagnosis. It was during a visit to the ER that David’s doctor suggested a CT Scan – just to ‘rule things out’. We were told that David had two suspicious looking masses in his brain. A biopsy done at Emory University hospital on October 13, 2010 confirmed that David had brain cancer. He died 11 months later.

David’s passion was for his Soldiers. He wanted them to understand the value of being financially prepared for unexpected situations and to also ensure a solid plan for the future. He handled all the finances in our household ensuring financial stability – all in line with our grand retirement plans.

It’s been four years since David’s death and much of that time has been spent dealing with multiple ‘unexpected’ events. At EACH ONE of these events, I can count on TAPS to provide me with the support that I need to get through. TAPS has not only been the support mechanism that I need – guiding me forward instilling a strength in me that I never thought I had – it’s provided a forum for my children to reach out to. They know that they’re not alone in this – and THAT is so important as they grow. They now reach out to others in their time of need.

I am very grateful for TAPS dedication to those who have lost one so dear… who took such a significant spot in our lives that now leaves such a void. For the past 4 years TAPS has provided my family with outstanding service, guidance, support – and most of all – access to its quality staff!


Tammy McCracken