by John Donnelly
I did not adjust well to civilian life upon my return from overseas. You wouldn’t think that it would be a problem, however my inability to integrate and assimilate back into society was staggering. Packing a duffel bag in 1974, I hitched South, winding up in Miami. I was seeking a way to make sense out of myself and the world. I wanted to see if there was a way for me to make it back.
I came across the McKinley family while traveling in Key Largo. They were kind and engaging. It appeared that they felt comfortable with me and I began to relax a little bit. The children brought me back to the head of the house, Catherine McKinley.
Her magnanimity and unconditional love blew my mind. I was taken into the household like I was one of her own. Mrs. McKinley’s actions toward me indicated that she wanted to help me the best way that she could. Catherine offered me healing and a home.
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