Noteboom The Law Firm

Project Blueberry Helping Veterans Heal

May 19, 2010 - Work Vessels for Vets (WVFV) helps veterans. More specifically, they help veterans returning from deployments transition into civilian careers or student roles seeking education. WVFV helps these veterans by giving them what they need to be successful. To date those donations have included:

• Laptops;
• Vehicles;
• Machinery;
• Tools;
• Commercial vessels; and
• A boat (their inaugural gift).

Adam Burke is a combat veteran, a Purple Heart recipient, and 90% disabled from a mortar attack. Returning home he discovered his physical ailments were symptoms. Burke was diagnosed with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). His Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical treatment is slow-going and cumbersome.

Burke also has a background in horticulture and eventually discovered that working with blueberries was a very effective therapy. After spending time working with blueberry plants, Burke's blood pressure dropped drastically and his need for a cane disappeared. Comparing pictures of Burke's brains before and after working with plants shows something startling: an 80% improvement in blood flow to his brain.

Burke and the WVFV are opening a blueberry farm in Jacksonville, FL. The WVFV purchased 8 acres of land and will lease that land back to Burke for 30 years at $1.00 per year. The farm will be open to other disabled veterans in hopes this therapy can aid them as well.

Project Blueberry will couple with the local VA Health Care system as well as the University of Florida' Agricultural Department. Burke is looking to give back to the WVFV as well as help as many veterans as possible.