Thank you, Dr. Nesheiwat, for such a heartfelt tribute to our nation’s veterans and their families. Like you, my life has been deeply intertwined with military service and the caregiving spirit it embodies. I was raised by a single mom who was in the Air Force, and was a Nurse for 33 years at the VA and her dedication to serving others profoundly shaped my journey. As a service-disabled veteran myself, I take great pride in the legacy of service in my family. My three great-uncles all earned Purple Hearts in World War II, and their sacrifices instilled in me a deep understanding of the courage and resilience it takes to defend freedom. This history has guided my mission to improve the lives of veterans through innovation.
Your article highlights the tremendous challenges our veterans face after their service, and it aligns closely with the vision I have for ROSE, the caregiver robot. ROSE is not just a technological advancement—it is a testament to what can be achieved when we combine innovation with compassion. By addressing physical, emotional, and cognitive needs, ROSE has the potential to provide personalized care that enhances the quality of life for veterans of all ages, whether they’re recovering from battlefield injuries or navigating the challenges of aging.
The integration of ROSE into military and veteran healthcare systems could be transformative. Imagine how ROSE could support injured soldiers on the battlefield, providing critical mobility assistance and monitoring vitals in real-time. For older veterans, ROSE could help alleviate the burden of daily tasks, reduce fall risks, and provide companionship to combat the isolation many experience. Moreover, the data collected by ROSE could be a game-changer for medical professionals, offering insights into the long-term physical and psychological impacts of service and allowing for more effective, personalized treatments.
Your acknowledgment of the staggering statistic of 17 veterans lost to suicide daily reminds us why innovation in care is so crucial. Mental health support needs to go hand in hand with physical care, and ROSE’s emotional companionship features are designed to address the unseen scars of service. Whether it’s through reminders to take medication, engaging in conversation, or simply providing a comforting presence, ROSE can be an ally in the fight to save lives.
As we honor our veterans this Veterans Day, I am inspired by the stories you’ve shared and the call to action they represent. It’s a reminder that while freedom comes at a steep cost, the least we can do as a nation is to ensure those who have served have access to the support they deserve. Through innovative solutions like ROSE, we can not only address the caregiving crisis but also create a lasting impact on the lives of those who have given so much for us.
To all our veterans: thank you for your service, your courage, and your sacrifices. Let’s honor them not just in words, but in actions that reflect our gratitude and commitment to their well-being.
With respect and determination,
Michael Bankowski
Founder and Inventor of ROSE
Service-Disabled Veteran
