Tina Drakulich, Using Art to Help Herself and Others Heal from Military Loss

How does one cope after losing their child who served in the military? Tina Drakulich founded the David J. Drakulich Foundation For Freedom of Expression after losing her own son, David Drakulich. The Reno artist turned soldier died at 22, in January 2008, near Chagali, Afghanistan. At the time, he was a fire support specialist with the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team in the 82nd Airborne Division.The non-profit in his name provides different art programs, like open art studios, writing workshops, performances, and community discussions to help veterans and their families heal. Our reporter Lucia Starbuck went to a therapeutic art workshop called Combat Paper Nevada, which turns military uniforms into paper. Learn more about this initiative in your latest Biggest Little Streets Our Town Reno podcast episode. Get full access to Our Town Reno Newsletter at ourtownreno.substack.com/subscribe