Veteran's Story: Andrea Best-Thompson

In Wilson, North Carolina, U.S. Army Veteran Andrea Best-Thompson is living more safely and comfortably thanks to home upgrades completed through Purple Heart Homes' Veterans Aging in Place Program.

With the support of a North Carolina Grant and Project Manager Lamar Austin, Andrea received essential repairs to improve both her physical safety and home energy efficiency - creating a living space that better supports her health and future.

Andrea's Service

Andrea Best-Thompson was born in 1962 and served in the United States Army from September 23, 1980, to September 22, 1983. She was honorably discharged at the rank of E-2, and continues to stay connected with the Veteran community through DAV Chapter 8 in Wilson, NC.

Service-Connected Challenges

Andrea lives with service-connected disabilities, including MST-related PTSD, bruxism, and chronic shoulder, neck, and back pain. She also experiences muscle tension and nerve issues, which make certain aspects of daily life - like entering a bathtub - more difficult and potentially dangerous.

In her own words, Andrea shared the importance of the updates she requested:

"I would like to have windows replaced to keep a lower electric bill. I would like to have the bathtub removed for purposes of safety so I can get in and out the shower without bumping my feet as I have often done - and for safety as I age gracefully. The house was built in 1959 or 1958 - windows weren't replaced."

How Purple Heart Homes Helped

Working with Project Manager Lamar Austin, Purple Heart Homes replaced the home's original windows, which had been in place for over 60 years. The new windows help improve energy efficiency, reduce electric bills, and provide better insulation and comfort.

In addition, the team removed the old bathtub and replaced it with a safer, more accessible shower, reducing the risk of falls and helping Andrea continue to live independently. 

Funded by Community Support

This project was funded by a North Carolina state grant, making it possible to address Andrea's concerns in a meaningful and timely way. Purple Heart Homes is grateful for the ongoing partnership with the state of North Carolina in helping improve the lives of aging and disabled Veterans.

Our Mission in Action

At Purple Heart Homes, we're committed to ensuring that Veterans like Andrea Best-Thompson have a home that meets their needs - now and as they age. For Andrea, these updates mean greater safety, lower bills, and the eace of mind that comes with a home designed to support her health and independence.

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