Diane Brady: A Life of Strength and Gratitude
In the quiet town of Ingleside, Texas, lives Diane Brady, a 77-year-old Marine Corps veteran whose life is a testament to warmth, strength, and gratitude. Brady is more than just a veteran; she is a teacher, a woman who has faced life’s challenges with unwavering resilience, and someone who radiates positivity. For Brady, kindness is not just a virtue—it is a powerful gift that can transform lives. Sitting in her cozy home, filled with memories and mementos from her past, Brady shared, “This house is a blessing, and we want to bless other people.” Her home is a reflection of her life—warm, welcoming, and filled with love.
Among the many mementos that line her shelves and fill her rooms are a collection of stuffed animals, many of which were gifts from loved ones and friends over the years. These stuffed bears, in particular, hold a special place in her heart. “You know how you get Valentine’s bears for the holidays?” Brady said with a smile, gesturing to the collection of soft, cuddly animals around her. “Before you know it, people just knew I liked bears.” For Brady, these bears are more than just keepsakes; they are symbols of love and laughter, reminding her of the joyful moments she has shared with family and friends. As a former classroom teacher, Brady sees the stuffed bears as “eyes in the classroom,” a comforting and familiar presence in her home.
However, some of these bears hold an even deeper significance. Many of them were made by her friend and fellow veteran, Shawn Husted, a Navy veteran who has been crafting stuffed bears for nearly 50 years. While many of these bears are gifts for friends and family, Husted has also made them for children in need, often donating them to programs like Toys for Tots. “I’m pretty much doing it for Toys for Tots now,” Husted said. “But if something local comes up, I’ll contribute to that as well.” For Husted, making these bears is more than just a hobby—it is a way to give back to the community and bring joy to those who need it most.
A Bond of Service and Kindness
Brady and Husted’s friendship is built on a shared commitment to service and kindness. As a member of the Marine Corps League 430, Brady has worked alongside Husted and others to collect gifts for the Toys for Tots program. Over the years, Husted has made hundreds of bears, many of which have been donated to children in need. But Husted’s story is not just one of generosity—it is also one of resilience and determination. In early 2024, Husted underwent a double bypass surgery, which was followed by a stroke and a week-long coma. Her health complications were so severe that her doctors and family were not sure if she would survive. But Husted, ever the fighter, defied the odds. “They weren’t counting on me being here, but I am,” she said. “And I do it because I still can.”
Despite the challenges she faced during her recovery, Husted’s determination to keep crafting bears never wavered. Even when she could no longer talk, walk, or remember the patterns and stitches she had used for decades, she worked tirelessly to regain her strength and skills. Brady, who has known Husted for years, was not surprised by her friend’s resilience. “She couldn’t talk, she couldn’t walk. She couldn’t remember patterns to make bears, stitches,” Brady said. “But she’s worked her way back.” Brady was especially moved when Husted presented her with more bears after her recovery. “I didn’t expect any bears this last time,” Brady said. “But she had bears. She’s still recovering, but she had bears.”
For Brady, Husted’s story is a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with those who have made sacrifices for our country. It is also a testament to the enduring strength and spirit of veterans like Husted, who continue to serve their communities even in the face of adversity. “I want people to know that we’re appreciated,” Brady said. “We love you. And whatever your contribution is, whatever it’s needed.” Through her friendship with Husted, Brady hopes to inspire others to appreciate life, spread love, and support veterans in their communities.
Inspiring Others Through Kindness
Brady’s own life is a living testament to the power of kindness and gratitude. As a teacher, she has dedicated her career to nurturing young minds and spreading joy. As a veteran, she has served her country with honor and pride. And as a friend and advocate for Husted, she has helped amplify the impact of her fellow veteran’s work. Together, Brady and Husted are a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s life. Whether it’s a stuffed bear for a child in need or a simple act of love and support for a fellow veteran, their story shows that we all have the power to bless others.
For Brady, the stuffed bears that fill her home are more than just symbols of love and laughter—they are reminders of the power of kindness and the enduring bonds of friendship. They are also a testament to the resilience and strength of veterans like Husted, who continue to serve their communities even in the face of adversity. As Brady so eloquently put it, “This house is a blessing, and we want to bless other people.” Her story, and that of her friend Shawn Husted, is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of gratitude, kindness, and service.
In a world that often feels overwhelming and divided, Brady and Husted’s story is a much-needed reminder of the good that can be done when people come together with love and compassion. Their friendship is a testament to the power of kindness, and their lives are a living example of the impact that one person can have on others. As Brady said, “Whatever your contribution is, whatever it’s needed,” we all have the power to make a difference. And for Brady and Husted, that difference is being made one stuffed bear at a time.
Resources and Support for Veterans
For those who are inspired by Brady and Husted’s story, there are many ways to get involved and support veterans in your community. The Toys for Tots program, which Husted has dedicated herself to, is just one of many organizations that work to bring joy to children in need. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, there are countless ways to make a difference. Additionally, there are numerous resources available for veterans and their families, from mental health support to employment services. For more information, you can visit the Veterans In Focus website or contact reporter Michelle Hofmann at michelle.lorenzo@kristv.com.
In closing, Diane Brady and Shawn Husted’s story is one of hope, resilience, and the power of kindness. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility for love and light. And it is a testament to the enduring strength and spirit of veterans, who continue to serve their communities even after their time in uniform has ended. As Brady said, “I want people to know that we’re appreciated. We love you.” And through their lives and their work, Brady and Husted are showing us all how to live with gratitude, kindness, and purpose.
