Rehab Hospital to Treat Wounded Vets for Free

ATLANTA (AP) — An Atlanta rehabilitation hospital will provide free care to wounded military veterans who need brain or spinal cord injury services that aren’t covered by the government, hospital officials said Monday.

The Shepherd Center, which treats spinal cord and brain injuries, has promised to provide a range of testing, care and rehabilitation services. It’s part of a philanthropic effort driven by Bernie Marcus, the co-founder of Home Depot Inc.

“These people are putting their lives on the line every day, and they deserve the best treatment possible,” said Marcus, who joined Shepherd Center officials in a Monday announcement.

An estimated 10 to 20 percent of troops leaving Iraq have signs of concussion, or mild traumatic brain injury, Shepherd Center officials said, citing Army statistics.

The injuries are often caused by explosions. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, irritability, dizziness and nausea. Problems with sleeping, memory and concentration also occur.

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