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Local veterans work to help confined peer in need

Eastex Advocate - 1/9/2017

A disabled veteran living on FM 1725 near Cleveland is expected to receive some help in getting into his home thanks to the American Legion Post 629 of Camilla.

Leo Runnels is a 78-year-old Vietnam War veteran who served for three years as a member of the military police. On Jan. 7, San Jacinto County Veterans Service Officer Dale Everitt along with Post 629 members David Brandon and James Gilvarry visited Runnels' home after receiving a call from his family the prior week.

"There were some needs that weren't being met," said Everitt.

Everitt, Brandon and Gilvarry discovered that Runnels suffers from injuries that confine him to a wheelchair.

"The doctor told me I'd never walk on this leg again," said Runnels. "Every time I get up and get on it, it collapses."

According to Runnels, he cannot receive surgery on his leg due to complications with a stroke and COPD.

While Runnels is confined to a wheelchair, his home does not have a proper ramp for him to get inside. Brandon also discovered that the home's bathroom doorway is not wide enough to accommodate an entrance for Runnels.

"We're looking at enlarging it," said Brandon. "His wheelchair width is 28 inches and the door width is 29 inches."

Brandon, Everitt and Gilvarry took measurements of the entryway into Runnels' front yard and home along with the doorway to the bathroom.

Anyone who wishes to help with the construction project through donations of money, supplies or work can contact Everitt at 713-962-9299. Carpenters are welcome to donate their time to help with the project.

Everitt thanks any volunteers who contribute in advance for their patriotic attitude towards Runnels.

"We probably have the most patriotic people in San Jacinto County in America," he said.

Runnels is grateful for the concern shown to his wellbeing but is even more grateful to have the opportunity to speak with other veterans.

"It's wonderful just to see another vet," he said. "I don't see other vets at all."