Hello there. My name is Andrea. I'm 19. I almost joined the air force, I thought about it seriously for awhile, but then I learned I have a heart murmur, and wouldn't be accepted. I think you are incredibly brave, and I believe that people like who, who devote themselves so entirely to a cause and a country, are angels. You deserve every medal in the world just for joining.
My heart aches for your sadness over not being written, and I hope that these humble blog entries help a little bit. I know it's not much, and it certainly is not the loved one you hoped for, but know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
I guess I'll say a little about myself. I just moved out on my own, and am loving the freedom of living away from my parents. But is has been a little scary. Since moving out, I was admitted to the hospital for a heart condition aside from my heart murmur, and may have to have a defibrillator put in me over the summer, in case my heart fails. It's really scary facing something like that in the face, especially at a young age. I try to act strong so my family doesn't baby me, and so my boyfriend and friends don't worry too much, but its strange being told at 19 that this defibrillator may save my life. But people have been wonderfully supportive, and I'm getting through it, slowly and painfully. I am on a lot of new drugs to help my heart, and I feel better, but its still weird.
I wish I could write you a real letter, but I suppose this is the next best thing.

~Andrea