Central Iowa residents are gaining a unique opportunity to capture the life stories of their veteran loved ones. The nonprofit Amadora Legacy Project, founded by Dr. Amy Hughes, has opened its doors for free recording sessions aimed at veterans and individuals facing terminal diagnoses.
Veterans speak about pride and service
Vietnam‑era veteran Bill Simmons, who grew up in a military family, reflected on his identity as a Marine. “I’m an Army brat. So the military has been in my family since I was born,” Simmons said. “They called me Marine, and I’ve always been proud of that title, because once you earn it, you don’t lose it. You’re never a former Marine. You’re always a Marine.”
Simmons added with a laugh, “I’ve thought about writing a book, but I’m kind of lazy, so I haven’t done it.” His remarks underscore the deep personal connection many service members feel toward their uniform and the desire to pass that legacy on.
Founder’s passion fuels the project
Dr. Amy Hughes, a cancer physician, described the recordings as “an absolute passion project.” She launched the Amadora Legacy Project four years ago, and since then the organization has recorded the stories of 80 individuals, many of whom are veterans. “I think there’s tremendous value in being able to save family history,” Hughes explained. “Every day I’m grateful for the fact that more people are aware that we’re here. Because too often I still hear, ‘I wish I would have known.’”
The sessions are conducted on camera, allowing participants to speak directly to future generations. The recordings are then edited and provided to families at no cost, ensuring that the memories are preserved in a format that can be revisited for years to come.
Free service for those facing terminal illness
While veterans are a primary focus, the project also welcomes anyone with a terminal diagnosis. The goal is to give those individuals a chance to share their experiences, values, and hopes with loved ones before it becomes too late. By offering the service free of charge, the Amadora Legacy Project removes financial barriers that might otherwise prevent families from creating these lasting tributes.
Community members have responded positively, noting the importance of preserving personal histories in an era where digital media can be fleeting. “It’s a way to keep our stories alive,” said a local volunteer who assists with the recordings. “When families watch these videos, they’ll feel a stronger connection to the sacrifices made by our veterans and the lessons learned from a life well‑lived.”
Looking ahead
Dr. Hughes hopes to expand the program’s reach throughout Iowa and neighboring states, inviting more veterans and terminally‑ill patients to participate. She envisions a growing archive of personal narratives that will serve as a resource for historians, educators, and families alike.
For those interested in scheduling a recording session, the Amadora Legacy Project can be contacted through its website or by calling the dedicated hotline. The organization encourages community members to spread the word so that more stories can be saved for posterity.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
