Louis Pape returned from World War II with stories he rarely talked about. Years later, his daughter and son-in-law opened a box he left behind and found a diary of his life as a prisoner of war written on toilet paper.
The visit
It started with a visit to the family farm in Illinois in the late 1970s. Cheryl Denslow and her husband David had come to see her parents. Her father, Pape, had served in World War II as a P-38 fighter pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps and was a prisoner of war (POW).
Like many Veterans of that generation, he didn’t talk about it much.
That day, Pape brought out an old cardboard box. It was one of the Red Cross boxes sent to Allied prisoners during the war. These boxes were packed with food and basic supplies, such as powdered milk, cigarettes and canned meat. Most prisoners reused the empty tins. Pape used his to make a cover for a diary written in pencil on sheets of toilet paper.
David remembers Pape showing a few items and quietly putting the box away.
“I was humbled by some of the stories he told,” David said. “Cheryl told me I should feel privileged. She had never seen some of those items herself.”
When Cheryl’s mother died in 2013, the box was given to them. They didn’t open it for years.
Documenting history
In 2024, Cheryl and David took a cruise that stopped in Norway. At a war museum, David met a woman whose father had also been a POW at Stalag Luft III, the same camp where Pape was held.
“When we got home, I told Cheryl, ‘I want to go through the box again,’” he said.
David built a phone stand from scrap wood and began photographing each page of the diary. He enlarged the images on a screen to read Pape’s writing.
“It was slow work,” he said. “But I didn’t want to miss anything.”
Shot down
On Sept. 2, 1943, Pape was flying a mission over Naples, Italy, escorting B-25 bombers when more than 200 German fighters attacked. He shot down two enemy aircraft before taking hits from enemy and friendly fire.
He lost both engines and crash-landed in the Mediterranean Sea.
He regained consciousness underwater. After freeing himself from the cockpit, he floated for hours before being picked up by a German-controlled, Italian flying boat near the Isle of Capri.
He was processed in Italy through Naples, Capua, and Rome, and in Germany through Munich, and a transit camp called Dulag Luft, near Frankfurt. He was eventually moved by boxcar to Stalag Luft III in what is now Żagań, Poland.
Pape spent the next 20 months as a prisoner of war.
Camp life
Stalag Luft III held thousands of captured Allied pilots. Inside, prisoners called themselves Kriegies—short for Kriegsgefangener, the German word for POW.
Each day began with Appel, the roll call.
“Each person had a specific spot in line, and we were not to move under any circumstances,” Pape wrote. “The guards would walk in front and behind to count heads. Some liked to count using their rifles.”
Appel happened twice daily, at 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
“We lived Appel to Appel,” Pape wrote. “It was a vicious cycle.”
Prisoners taught each other to stay focused. They used hip-pocket classes—short, informal teaching sessions—to stay sharp. Pape taught agriculture and electrical engineering. Others covered languages, mechanics or whatever skills they could offer.
Prisoners built stoves out of tin cans. They carved toothbrushes by hand. Pape kept writing because it helped him hold on.
Delicately written on toilet paper, he wrote: “This little book should contain a few notes and diagrams that sort of describe my life and experiences since I was shot down.”
The forced march
In late January 1945, the prisoners were ordered to evacuate Stalag Luft III ahead of the Soviet advance. Pape and thousands of others were forced to march over 58 miles through snow and subzero temperatures, pulling their gear on makeshift sleds.
They slept in barns, churches and empty buildings—often without food or firewood. Many became ill. The journey ended at Spremberg, where they were crammed 52 to a boxcar and transported to Moosburg, Germany.
Pape described the conditions as “deplorable.” Still, the men stuck together. Every mile of that march was survived the same way they had survived captivity—side by side.
Life after war
Pape was liberated on April 29, 1945, when American forces reached the camp.
Soon after, he and a group of fellow POWs visited the Dachau concentration camp, where over 41,000 people perished. Pape never said much about that day.
“All he ever said,” David recalled, “was that he saw things no one should ever see.”
He returned to Illinois, took over the family farm and raised a family. He lived to be 91.
Cheryl said she wished she’d asked more questions.
“It was a part of his life that wasn’t discussed,” she said. “I regret not asking more questions of both my parents.”
The brick
After her father passed, Cheryl came across a reunion newsletter from his old squadron. It mentioned a commemorative brick program at the National WWII Museum in New Orleans, so she ordered one in Pape’s name.
During his time as a prisoner, Pape had been listed as missing in action. For a while, no one knew if he was alive.
When Cheryl visited the museum and followed the directions to her dad’s brick, it wasn’t where it should be.
Emotional, she went to the front desk and said, “He appears to be MIA once again.”
They eventually found it, but the moment stayed with her.
“It reminded me how easy it is for someone’s story to disappear if no one keeps track of it,” she said.
The story continues
Cheryl and David have shared the diary with their son and are still deciding whether to donate it. For now, it stays with them—kept safe.
They’ve gone line-by-line through Pape’s handwriting. Each page brought new understanding—about the war, the man he was and the silence he lived with after coming home.
Cheryl emphasized that Pape’s service is part of their family’s and our country’s history and wants America to learn of it.
“His story doesn’t belong in a box,” Cheryl said. “It belongs to the country he fought for.”
For those still carrying it
Pape didn’t talk about the hard parts. A lot of us don’t. If you’re carrying something, you don’t have to do it alone.
Find mental health support at VA. You can also contact your local Vet Center to speak confidentially with another Veteran—no service connection or medical record is required. Help is here. Healing is possible.
]]>After waking up in a Las Vegas community hospital with both legs amputated, Army Veteran Michael Hobbs had only the haziest memories. But to this day, he is clear about his relationship with his doctor there, Dr. Cole Kretchmar. They have an unbreakable bond.
“He would just show up and sit on my bed and we would just talk. We talked about my military service for a little bit,” Hobbs said. “We would just talk, and I thought that was the neatest thing. I looked forward to it every day.”
Changing a life with one question
Kretchmar, a resident physician, was Hobbs’s doctor at Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas, which has an academic affiliation with VA. Having done his training with VA, Kretchmar knew to ask Hobbs a simple question that changed his life.
“One day he was wearing a military-type shirt, and I figured I would ask him if he’s a Veteran because I knew we had a really good amputee clinic here at the North Las Vegas VA,” said Kretchmar.
“He’s the one that suggested to put in a VA claim,” said Hobbs. “I hadn’t even considered it.”
As soon as Hobbs returned home from the hospital, he connected with VA and his life radically improved. “These guys just picked up the ball and started running,” said Hobbs. “I cannot speak highly enough about all the departments in this facility. It’s been amazing—I never needed for anything.”
Today, Hobbs receives service-connected disability compensation, which has also made him eligible for a VA Auto Adaptive Grant, a Special Adapted Housing Grant and long-term care in the Nevada State Veterans home.
“I can get everything I need here at VA,” said Hobbs. “I mean primary care, optometry, cardiology, prosthetics, pharmacy, lab work. You name it.”
Getting the benefits he earned
Kretchmar feels good knowing Hobbs is getting the services and benefits he earned. “It’s great to see that continuity of care and see him get the benefits that he’s worked for,” he said. “It seems like a small thing to ask, but you know, even little things can change people’s lives.”
The VA training that prepared Kretchmar to ask Hobbs about his Veteran status was the result of a survey led by Veteran and former VA physician Dr. Carlos Rodriguez, Jr. Results showed that roughly one-quarter of patients receiving care in local hospitals where the survey was conducted were Veterans—and roughly half of those patients were not connected with VA.
In response, clinical educators at North Las Vegas VA started training their residents to ask all their patients if they were Veterans when doing rotations in the local community hospitals.
Hobbs is benefitting every day from that one simple question. “This whole experience was not something I expected,” said Hobbs. “I will tell everybody I know about VA. For guys that don’t know, I’ll tell them. This is the place to be.”
Hobbs said he owes everything to Kretchmar and will always feel a bond. “Without him, I wouldn’t be here. Period.” Hobbs said.
Kretchmar, along with 122,000 other health professions trainees across the nation, are in health professions education programs overseen by the Office of Academic Affiliations (OAA). OAA partners with over 1,450 academic institutions in more than 60 clinical disciplines, making VA’s health professions education program the largest in the United States.
When it comes to your health care, you’re in the driver’s seat—choosing where, when and how to connect with VA.
VA has made real progress in cutting appointment wait times and we’re working hard to make it easier to connect you with high-quality care when you need it. This means shorter wait times to get scheduled and more options for scheduling appointments that are most convenient for you.
Putting Veterans in the driver’s seat when making appointments
One way we are making this happen is through new technology that allows VA staff to book community care appointments directly into providers’ schedules—right when you are on the phone with us. No waiting, and no back and forth. Just real-time scheduling that gets you to the doctor faster.
Technology is propelling these improvements, but it’s the VA staff behind the scenes that make it happen when the rubber meets the road.
Take Rhonda Bentley, a supervisory program specialist at the Carl T. Hayden VA medical center in Phoenix. She’s a disabled Veteran and patient in Phoenix. She knows firsthand how important it is to get care without unnecessary delay. She is a driving force behind getting Veterans timely care.
“My goal is to make Veteran care better here in Phoenix, whether it’s getting them easier access, finding the correct providers, bringing the providers on that we need, [or] ensuring our staff is doing the correct processes,” she said when asked what fuels her. “But mainly, it’s to make the Phoenix VAMC a better place.”
Veterans are seeing the difference. Phoenix VA’s optometry team shared how the new scheduling platform is making life easier. One Veteran told Bentley, “Hey, I just made one phone call, and everything’s done. Wow! That’s great!”
This technology, called external provider scheduling, is up and running at 30 VA medical centers and is expected to be available nationwide this year.
Looking ahead, VA is working on a process that gives Veterans even more control—essentially giving you the keys to the car! Soon, you’ll be able to schedule your own community care appointments. The pilot program will start at VA medical centers in Marion, IL, and Salisbury, NC, this summer for the kick-off.
Running on all cylinders to bring timely care to Veterans
No matter where, when or how you choose to get your care, VA is committed to making sure you can connect with us directly to get timely, high-quality care. When you talk to us about your available in-person and telehealth options, you help steer us in the right direction. After all, you’re the one in the driver’s seat when it comes to your health care.
For more information, contact us at Ask VA.
]]>You may not know the following facts, but it’s true that the suicide rate among women Veterans decreased between 2021 and 2022, and that it’s because VA suicide prevention programs are playing a part.
After climbing over the last two decades, the suicide rate among women Veterans decreased from 2021 to 2022, according to data from the 2024 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report.
The age-adjusted suicide rate (which gives us a more accurate way to compare Veteran and general U.S. population data) among women Veterans decreased by 24.1% between 2021 and 2022 (the latest year for which data is available). This decline tells us VA programs may be effectively reaching this group.
Women Veterans: The latest data
The report reveals other notable improvements from 2021 to 2022, including:
- 12% decrease in the use of firearms in women Veteran suicide deaths.
- 30% decrease in firearm and suffocation suicide rates among women Veterans.
- 29.6% decrease in the age-adjusted suicide rate among women Veterans receiving care from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).
Though we’re encouraged by these numbers, we will keep working to enhance our meaningful programs and resources for women Veterans.
VA efforts to support women Veterans
In addition to being the fastest-growing population in the Veteran community, women are the fastest-growing group of Veterans who use VA services. We continue to expand services so that women can receive trauma-sensitive, tailored care, particularly for those at increased risk for suicide.
Here are resources currently available:
- Women Veterans Program managers: These people are available at every VA medical center to ensure women receive tailored care and are connected to necessary services.
- Expanded mental health care access: A complete range of care, including telehealth and peer support, is available to address PTSD, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders.
- Military sexual trauma services: VA offers free services and resources to meet survivors where they are in their recovery.
- Whole Health approach: This type of treatment includes traditional care and therapies like yoga and meditation to manage stress and build resilience.
- Postpartum and perinatal mental health: These programs focus on health during and after pregnancy, addressing postpartum depression and related concerns.
- Reproductive mental health: VA offers treatments for reproductive mental health conditions.
- Research and data-driven interventions: Researchers constantly work to find ways to tailor suicide prevention treatments and programs.
- VA Women’s Health Research Network: This program ensures women Veterans’ health research is considered when creating new practices and policies.
- Center for Women Veterans: CWV advocates for access to VA benefits and services.
- VHA Assault and Harassment Prevention Office: This office oversees VA’s commitment to providing a safe, welcoming and professional environment for all employees, Veterans, volunteers and visitors. Harassment or sexual assault will not be tolerated at any VA facility.
- Women Veterans coordinators: Each Veterans Benefits Administration regional office has a coordinator who provides information, assistance and resources to women concerning VA benefits, non-VA resources and any additional benefits.
If you’re a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one, contact the Veterans Crisis Line to receive 24/7, confidential support. You don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect. To reach responders, Dial 988 then Press 1, chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text 838255.
You can get more information about the Veterans Crisis Line and can access VA’s suicide prevention resources.
A call to action
- Suicide is preventable.
- Everyone plays a role in suicide prevention.
- There is hope for people who have thoughts of suicide.
Experience tells us that when Veterans have access to the right support before a crisis happens, lives can be saved.
A commitment to women Veterans
As the women Veteran population has grown, it’s become a bigger focus for VA. We continue to create support systems and outreach programs to reduce suicides among women Veterans and improve their overall quality of life.
Through these efforts, VA is working to empower women Veterans to seek help and receive the care they’ve earned.
Learn how you can help prevent suicide at the Office of Suicide Prevention.
]]>In our previous VA News article, I talked about the first two of seven strategies VA is taking to support Veterans at risk for suicide. In today’s article, you’ll learn about the next five.
Expanding crisis intervention services
VA offers many crisis prevention and intervention services, including the Veterans Crisis Line. We’re constantly working to enhance and refine these services to effectively provide Veterans with the resources they need.
One of our most recent projects, Caring Letters, works to support Veterans after they contact the Veterans Crisis Line. Over the course of a year, the program mails eight letters demonstrating ongoing support and reducing risks associated with isolation and lack of care. Recipients of the letters have reported feeling appreciated, cared for, supported, connected, encouraged, validated, heard and seen.
VA also supports Veterans outside VA programs and facilities. The COMPACT Act allows eligible Veterans in acute suicide crisis to go to any VA or non-VA health care facility for no-cost emergency health care. This may include inpatient or crisis residential care for up to 30 days and outpatient care for up to 90 days. Veterans don’t need to be enrolled in the VA system to use this benefit.
Tailoring prevention and intervention services
Through innovative projects and partnerships, VA provides suicide prevention resources in various settings, including firearms retailers and faith-based organizations.
Initiatives like Mission Daybreak create suicide prevention strategies that potentially benefit Veterans, like training enhancements, wellness checks and mental health tools. Programs from groups like ReflexAI and NeuroFlow reach Veterans across VAMCs, while Cabana and Televeda focus on specific communities, such as National Guard members and American Indian Veterans, respectively.
Advancing suicide prevention into non-clinical supports
In an attempt to reach all Veterans, not just those enrolled in VA, we’re expanding programs and initiatives into non-clinical areas, like financial, occupational, legal and social support services.
For example, the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program (SSG Fox SPGP) awards grants to community organizations providing or coordinating suicide prevention services. Since its launch in 2022, the program has awarded $157.5 million to 95 organizations across 43 states, U.S. territories and tribal lands. Early results show 80% of participants have improved in key areas, with 33% of participants new to VA services.
Enhancing mental health care access across the full continuum of care
We’re committed to increasing access to comprehensive mental health services across all stages of care.
The Suicide Prevention 2.0 Clinical Telehealth Program has received over 23,000 referrals and provided over 12,000 intake assessments since its launch. So far, we’ve seen significant reductions in suicidal ideation and depressive symptoms among participants. Efforts like REACH VET allow us to study data to proactively identify Veterans with increased risk for suicide, ensuring timely and appropriate care.
Integrating suicide prevention within medical settings
Incorporating suicide prevention strategies into medical environments ensures Veterans have access to critical support and enhances early identification and intervention for Veterans at risk.
The Clinical Interventions Program’s Risk Identification (Risk ID) focuses on making sure suicide risk assessment is included in routine medical care and has administered over 10 million suicide risk screenings since 2021. Safety planning for at-risk Veterans discharged from emergency care is a priority, with 92% of patients receiving safety plans before discharge.
How VA is taking action to prevent Veteran suicide in 2025
By combining data and community-based resources, we can identify, connect and support at-risk Veterans. If we can reach Veterans where they are with the resources they need, we can save more lives.
]]>As an Air Force colonel with a doctorate in nursing practice, Doug Howard saw a broad range of clinical cases in his 23 years of military service. Upon retiring from the Air Force, he joined VA’s Office of the Medical Inspector, leading investigations in quality care delivery.
With his extensive medical background and a battle with Hodgkins lymphoma—a blood cancer originating in the lymphatic system—in his 30s, Howard thought he knew what to look for and when to be concerned about his health.
When his doctor recommended a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, he was hesitant. “I wanted to deny it because I had no symptoms,” he shared.
Howard knew he had to face this challenge head on. He chose to trust VA for his care.
Choosing VA
With dual eligibility for Tricare and VA health care, Howard had options for his cancer care. His decision to choose VA was influenced by several factors:
- Expertise and dedication: With his work investigating and comparing VA care to community care, he knew VA’s care delivery, wraparound services and dedicated staff were far superior to community care.
- Comprehensive care: Exposed to burn pits at both Bagram Air Force Base and Kuwait, Howard was well aware of the PACT Act and its impact on expanding VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange and other toxic substances. Prostate cancer is a presumptive condition for those with toxic exposures. Howard’s familiarity with VA’s comprehensive approach reassured him that he was in the best hands.
- Personal experience: His firsthand experience with VA’s genuine and dedicated staff solidified his choice. He considered the multiple treatment options available through VA and after multidisciplinary consultations, he opted for a radical prostatectomy. “VA care is genuinely superior, and I know these folks are incredibly dedicated, so I want to stay with VA,” he said.
VA’s support makes the difference
Howard’s recovery post-surgery has been positive but not without challenges. From a cardiac event just after surgery to struggles with the catheter and incontinence, he relied on the compassionate care of his VA nurses and doctors every step of the way. The kitchen staff saved meals for him and his nurses ensured he had everything he needed for his continued recovery at home. He felt like the team was holding his hand throughout his journey.
For Veterans facing similar battles, Howard’s advice is invaluable: Trust VA, stay connected and know that you are not alone. “If you can, stay within the VA system. You will have a hard time finding anything that can compare.”
Are you facing a cancer diagnosis? VA’s National TeleOncology has launched a virtual support group, Living Well with Cancer, where Veterans with any type of cancer, including those newly diagnosed in active treatment and survivors are invited to discuss topics including stress management, grief, health behaviors and finding meaning during your cancer journey.
Living Well with Cancer is led by a clinical psychologist and meets virtually. Visit My HealtheVet to speak with your health care team about joining the Living Well with Cancer support group.
]]>The Latin word for inflammation translates to “a kindling, a setting on fire.” Ancient Romans defined inflammation by four signs: redness, swelling, fever and pain—a definition that holds true today. Think back to the last time you recovered from a cut, burn or infection. That’s inflammation working to protect your body.
When faced with an injury or illness, the immune system activates and starts the healing process by sending extra blood with nutrients and immune cells to the affected area. This reaction is essential to protecting tissues and maintaining health. However, when inflammation doesn’t respond as it’s supposed to, it can lead to problems.
Chronic, low-grade inflammation is associated with conditions including:
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Arthritis
- Neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s)
- Cancer
- Autoimmune diseases
While many factors are involved and some are out of our control, our diet can help manage chronic inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory diet is one way to calm inflammation
The standard American diet is typically high in saturated fats, omega-6 fatty acids and refined carbohydrates. These can contribute to chronic inflammation over time. Moving toward an anti-inflammatory diet is one way to start calming inflammation. This includes replacing these foods with monounsaturated fats, omega-3 fatty acids and more colorful, fibrous foods.
- Fruits and vegetables are anti-inflammatory superstars containing fiber, antioxidants and polyphenols. Try filling half your plate and include as much variety and color as you can.
- Fiber foods include legumes, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. These can lower pro-inflammatory molecules and help regulate blood glucose levels following a meal.
- Monounsaturated fats (MUFAs) include olive oil, nuts and seeds. When replacing foods high in saturated fats, such as meat, butter, and cheese, MUFAs can help lower inflammation.
- Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish, fish oil supplements, nuts and seeds, and some plant oils. Increasing omega-3 fatty acids and reducing omega-6 fatty acids from vegetable oils (such as fried foods) can reduce pro-inflammatory molecules.
- Magnesium has shown a strong anti-inflammatory response. Food sources include legumes, nuts, leafy greens and whole grains.
These are just some of the components of an anti-inflammatory diet. The Mediterranean Diet is one example of how to incorporate more of these inflammation-fighting foods.
Research also consistently supports the anti-inflammatory benefits of more plant-forward diets. Check out VA’s Healthy Teaching Kitchen plant-based cookbook for recipe inspiration.
If you’re interested in this or any other nutrition-related topic, contact your local VA to speak with a registered dietitian.
]]>With the VA Health and Benefits App, you can refill prescriptions, message your care team or check your VA benefits anytime, anywhere using your smartphone.
With a 4.8 out of 5 rating in the Apple App Store, Veterans who use the app have voiced how hard it is to imagine their VA experience without it. You’ll feel like you have a VA office in your pocket, always ready to help.
Your VA care team at your fingertips
Remember trying to reach your provider by phone? They might have been busy or the call may have been outside regular hours.
With the app, you can quickly send a secure message to your VA care team, just like using your favorite social media app.
“It’s great to know I can message my provider and get quick answers,” said Stephen Havard, Marine Corps Veteran. “I recently asked my primary care team about a medication and I had a response by the end of the day.”
Veterans are taking advantage of this feature with over 300,000 secure messages sent each month.
Remember, secure messaging is for non-urgent communication only. If you’re in crisis, call 911, 988 (then Press 1) or go to the nearest emergency room. You can also access the Veteran Crisis Line straight from the app.
Kick pharmacy runs to the curb
Gone are the days of waiting in line at the VA medical center’s pharmacy. Refilling medications through the VA with the Health and Benefits app is now as easy as ordering takeout.
“While sitting in my deer blind, I realized I was low on one of my prescriptions,” said Luke Yanny, Marine Corps Veteran. “I opened the app and ordered a refill in just a few taps.”
Using the app, you can select the medication you need from your prescriptions, ensuring you order the correct one. Your prescriptions are mailed to your address on file usually within 5-7 business days at no cost.
With over 250,000 prescriptions refilled monthly through the app, it significantly benefits Veterans everywhere.
Claims and appeals status updates
Checking your claim status? Now, it’s instant.
The app gives real-time updates on claims and appeals, bringing you peace of mind with just a glance at your screen.
“The app lets you track your claim from your phone,” said Thomas Turman, Navy Veteran.
Veterans have checked their claims over 45 million times through the app.
Appointments managed with military precision
The app’s appointment feature serves as a personal assistant helping you view and track appointments. The app lets you add appointments to your phone’s calendar ensuring you won’t miss any check-ups.
“It’s a lot easier to track appointments,” said Deborah Hall, Marine Corps Veteran. “I recently rescheduled an appointment and added it to my phone’s calendar with just a few taps.”
That kind of efficiency would make your drill instructor proud. Once it’s on your calendar, you can easily share it with your caregiver, spouse or family to add to their calendars.
Proof of service in your pocket
The app’s one-touch Proof of Veteran Status feature is like having a digital DD-214.
“I’m thankful I can use my Veteran’s discount at different stores,” said Richard McMullen, Army National Guard Veteran. “Now, it only takes a few seconds to prove my status, and it’s a better option, no paperwork.”
Download the VA Health and Benefits app, your new battle buddy for navigating your VA health care and benefits, and let it change how you connect with VA. If you find the app helpful, share it with fellow Veterans.
]]>Motivated and dedicated are the two words that best describe Stark Hill, a licensed practical nurse, telehealth clinical technician and preceptor. She tackles all those jobs and more to support Veterans at the Chattanooga VA Clinic in person and online through VA’s telehealth services.
Hill’s journey did not start in the halls of Chattanooga, nor Tennessee. In 2007, she was hired as a nursing assistant at Tuscaloosa VA in Alabama. She worked in the geriatrics and extended care section. It was her first experience working with Veterans, which changed her perception of what she wanted to do with her life.
“Once I got in there, I realized I enjoyed what I did because I really enjoy taking care of people. The more I did it, the more I enjoyed it.”
Working in hospice was another chance for her to grow
Hill’s thirst for knowledge and adaptability have always driven her. She eagerly joined to receive training in hospice and palliative care at a conference in Atlanta. This experience led to her involvement in creating the first hospice unit at her medical center, a significant achievement for her and her co-workers.
Working in hospice was another chance for her to grow, as there were some challenges.
There were occasions a Veteran’s family began to argue in the Veteran’s room and Hill would have to intervene because their argument would upset the Veteran. But the hardest situation was when a Veteran did not have any family. In those cases, she would sit with the Veteran and become their family as they transitioned.
“Hospice is not for everybody, just like geriatrics is not for everybody. It really has to be a calling, like mental health. I love those things and I had those two things together—mental health and hospice—wrapped together.”
“I started a mission to serve and I wanted to finish that mission.”
While working at VA, Hill earned her nursing license. In 2011 she left VA to work in mental health care in the private sector. For nine years, she gained invaluable experience as a nurse. Each patient interaction broadened her understanding of different medical needs and deepened her compassion for others. She may have physically left VA, but her commitment to supporting Veterans stayed with her.
“I just wanted to get back and finish my career in VA. I started a mission to serve and I wanted to finish that mission,” she shared. “I go out there and I call their name, and the first thing they’re going to see is a smile. I tell them that I know traffic was bad. It’s OK that you are late. You made it and that’s all that matters.”
Hill has worked as a nursing assistant and nurse with hundreds of Veterans and patients. Time has not changed the smile and optimism she inspires in her co-workers and students.
“This is the only place I know I can come to work and make a difference,” she added.
More than 146,000 Veterans receive world-class health care within Tennessee Valley VA. These Veterans come from all walks of life in middle Tennessee, southern Kentucky and northern Georgia. A team of over 5,000 doctors, nurses, administrative staff, engineers and more are challenged every day with providing health care for thousands of Veterans.
]]>Pacific Island VA holds two tai chi classes on Tuesdays at the Daniel K. Akaka VA Clinic in Kapolei. The classes are a weekly event that started virtually and moved to face-to-face recently. The local classes are coordinated by members of the Whole Health, physical therapy and recreation therapy programs.
Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that was developed for combat and self-defense. It has evolved into a sport and form of exercise. As an exercise, tai chi is performed as a gentle, low-impact movement in which practitioners perform a series of deliberate, flowing motions while focusing on deep, slow breaths.
“I went through the Whole Health program and started classes online,” said Air Force Veteran Victor Carvalho. “I was excited when the in-person classes started. It’s a great way to meet people and make friends my own age who understand me and like the same kinds of things.”
Concentrates the body’s vital energy
Often referred to as “meditation in motion,” tai chi aims to concentrate and balance the body’s qi—or vital energy—providing benefits to mental and physical health.
“Tai chi has helped the Veterans in many ways,” said tai chi Instructor and Physical Therapist Charlene Sison. “Tai chi is a practice that helps with arthritis and fall prevention. I’ve noticed that the Veterans have had improvements in their mobility, strength and balance. Before and after the class, they get to socialize and get acquainted with each other.”
Having the classes at the Daniel K. Akaka VA Clinic allows plenty of room to expand. The clinic was designed to provide ample spaces for Veterans to socialize. The tai chi classes have been very popular, and they now fill one of the alcoves in front of the clinic. The exercise is a good way to stretch and increase muscle strength and endurance, but it’s also a peaceful activity that helps Veterans find calm and center themselves.
“Since I have been doing tai chi, I have noticed an improvement in my balance,” said Army Veteran Joe Hoopai. “It also helps the mind. I find that it helps clear out my stress and make me feel more peaceful.”
“I’m a volunteer here at the Daniel K. Akaka Clinic,” said Navy Veteran Noel Almanzor. “I heard about the classes while I was volunteering, and I had to try it. It has been a really positive experience for my mental and physical health.”
VA Boston’s recreation therapy department, in collaboration with Adaptive Sports New England and the New England Patriots Wheelchair Football Team, hosted an introductory Veterans Wheelchair Football Clinic at the Brockton VA campus.
During the clinic, 17 Veterans received hands-on instruction from Vernon Crawford, former New England Patriots linebacker. Assisting were members of the Patriots Wheelchair Football Team Omar Benitez, Jon Brace and Joe LeMar.
Participants learned essential wheelchair football skills, including controlling a sports wheelchair, throwing a spiral, running routes and defensive techniques.
Pictured above, Patriots Wheelchair Football Team member No. 35 Omar Benitez attempts to intercept a football passed from Mark Zacheis, Army Veteran, while No. 4 team captain Joe LeMar, and Joseph Kozaczka, Navy Veteran, assist.
“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to both serve our local Veterans as well as spread the sport of wheelchair football throughout the area,” said Sam Bernstein, coach for the Patriots Wheelchair Football Team and program manager for Adaptive Sports New England. “We are very lucky to have such great friends at Brockton VA who are willing to help us host a clinic like this.”
Helps Veterans improve their emotional and social well-being
The clinic is part of VA Boston’s ongoing commitment to provide adaptive sports opportunities for Veterans. The recreation therapy department collaborates with local and national organizations to offer a variety of adaptive sports, including winter and summer clinics.
“By working with dedicated partners like New England Healing Sports Association, Adaptive Sports New England and the Patriots Wheelchair Football Team, VA Boston helps Veterans improve their physical, emotional and social well-being through adaptive sports and therapeutic recreation,” said Matthew Edwards, chief of VA Boston’s Center for Development and Community Engagement.
“Adaptive sports are empowering,” said Jenny Vulpis, adaptive sports coordinator for Boston VA. “They help Veterans build courage, push past obstacles and exceed their goals.” She added that the programs provide Veterans with a controlled, supportive environment where they can safely test their limits, develop new skills and experience the transformative effect of teamwork.
Get more information about VA Adaptive Sports and Arts and upcoming adaptive sports events.
]]>Taryn, a two-year-old female Labrador Retriever, recently joined the staff at Birmingham VA as a trained and certified facility dog.
She works alongside her partners, Physical Therapist Leesa Miles and Occupational Therapist Casey Church, daily at the Birmingham VA clinic, assisting their patients during physical and occupational therapy treatments.
Leesa, Taryn and Casey are pictured above.
Taryn’s goal is to motivate chronic pain patients going through the Pain Rehabilitation Outpatient Program and promote participation in active therapies by retrieving items for patients, playing fetch or going for a walk. She can also reduce anxiety by providing deep pressure across a patient’s lap or body or by just providing companionship during treatments.
Providing companionship
“We are so excited to have Taryn join our team to work as the facility dog,” said Leesa Miles. “Taryn loves to get attention from people and enjoys working as a VA employee during the day. She is always in a good mood and eager to greet employees, Veterans and their families.”
Taryn was raised and trained by Canine Companions for the first two years of her life. It was there she learned the skills required to be a facility service dog. A Canine Companions facility dog is bred to be calm, reliable and affectionate, and is trained to perform over 30 service dog commands, including picking up items, opening doors and providing calming pressure across the lap or body.
Their skills are used to enhance therapies, promote participation and reduce anxiety. Since its founding in 1975, Canine Companions has trained and placed over 8,000 service dogs at no cost.
“Canine Companions has been a great organization to work with,” said Church. “They trained us to be facility dog handlers and confidently utilize the tasks Taryn is trained to do during a two-week training class before we were matched with Taryn. We also participate in on-going training and are involved in their graduate support program.”
Unconditional emotional support
Although her primary duties take place in the clinical setting, Taryn is inpatient and outpatient certified and enjoys visiting with Veterans, their families and caregivers at the medical center as well.
“Taryn is an asset for us at Birmingham VA because she provides unconditional emotional support, affection and snuggles to our Veterans and staff,” Miles said. “Going to a medical appointment or being in the hospital can be a stressful event, but seeing her furry face and wagging tail can immediately help put you at ease. In fact, studies show that just petting a dog lowers blood pressure and stress hormones.”
As the primary handler, Miles carries the responsibility of caring, providing for and protecting Taryn at home and work. This includes 60 minutes of exercise and two meals with supplements daily, brushing her coat and teeth, nail trimming, bathing and frequent trips outside. Additionally, Taryn must always be with one of her handlers unless she is in her crate, per Canine Companion.
“Taryn’s hygiene and safety are top priorities. It is important that we keep her at her ideal weight to make sure she is healthy and can continue to work with us for a long time. We also must ensure that those interacting with her follow proper rules and guidelines for her safety and the safety of others,” Miles added.
]]>Update to this story: The deadline to use the My HealtheVet user ID and password has been extended from Jan. 31, 2025, to March 4, 2025.
Jan. 28 is Data Privacy Day, which marks the importance of safeguarding personal information online and preparing for sign-in changes.
VA is committed to ensuring Veteran information is protected and that our technologies meet modern security standards. That is why two major changes are coming to how Veterans, caregivers and beneficiaries sign in to VA websites and apps this year.
Upcoming changes
After Jan. 31, 2025, Veterans won’t be able to sign in to VA.gov, VA apps or other VA online services with a My HealtheVet user ID and password. After Sept. 30, 2025, Veterans won’t be able to sign in with a DS Logon username and password.
Veterans will have two sign-in account options: a Login.gov or ID.me account. Veterans can use their account to sign in to VA.gov, VA apps and any other VA online service they use to manage their VA benefits and care.
Simple and secure
VA is moving to a more modern, refined sign-in experience in 2025 to:
- Reduce the number of sign-in options Veterans need to choose from—just as Veterans have asked us to do. Over several years, Veterans have said that they want fewer account options. And they want to be able to use their chosen sign-in account to access all of their VA benefits and care.
- Continue to protect all Veterans’ information and benefits. Identity theft and related medical identity theft are serious issues that can cause severe financial hardship and disruption in medical care for Veterans and their families. In 2023, the Federal Trade Commission received more than 1 million reports of identity theft. That same year, Veterans and military retirees also reported to the FTC $350 million in losses to fraud.
- Meet the latest federal standards for modern account security. VA is required by federal policy to help all Veterans begin using a sign-in account that meets modern security standards. VA is also required to simplify the sign-in experience for Veterans. Login.gov and ID.me help to meet both these requirements.
Login.gov and ID.me also use multifactor authentication, an extra layer of protection to ensure that it’s the Veteran trying to use their sign-in account and not someone pretending to be them.
How to prepare
For Data Privacy Day and beyond, take action to secure your personal data.
If you use DS Logon or the My HealtheVet user ID and password to sign in to My HealtheVet, you’ll need to switch to using a Login.gov or ID.me account. With Login.gov or ID.me, you’ll have access to all the same information and services you use today.
For more information about how to make a Login.gov or ID.me account, go to the Creating an account for VA.gov page; for more information about online security, go to the How To Protect Your Identity and Your VA Benefits From Scammers page.
]]>The word is out: VA Health Connect is a simple way for Veterans to connect with a real person right now for:
- Help with scheduling appointments.
- Pharmacy needs.
- Medical evaluations and guidance.
- A virtual meeting with a medical provider, including tele-emergency care if appropriate.
VA Health Connect has handled more than 120 million calls with more than 10 million unique calls from Veterans and their families and caregivers. Veterans can call from anywhere at any time to get the care they need when they need it.
One Veteran truck driver called VA Health Connect from the road and a VA nurse convinced him to go to the ER for symptoms of deep vein thrombosis. The Veteran had four clots in his leg that could have caused a heart attack or stroke if not urgently treated. His call to VA Health Connect likely saved his life.
Veterans can call from anywhere at any time
When you have a question about your health and want to speak with someone right away through VA Health Connect, call your local VA medical center and select 1 for pharmacy, 2 for scheduling, or 3 to speak with a nurse.
To find your local VA medical center number, check the Find VA Locations webpage. You can also download the VA Health Chat app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. The app can also be launched in a web browser.
VA Health Connect and tele-emergency care do not replace emergency room care. Veterans should call 911 or go to the emergency room if they think they are experiencing a life-threatening emergency.
If a Veteran is in crisis or if a person is concerned about a Veteran in crisis, they should contact the Veterans Crisis Line to receive 24/7 confidential support. Veterans don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to contact the crisis line. To reach responders, dial 988 then press 1; chat online, or text 838255.
]]>As 2025 begins, Marine Corps Veteran Byron Potier is reclaiming his health and improving his quality of life after gastric sleeve surgery at Michael E DeBakey VA.
Over the years, Potier, 57, slowly began putting on weight and feeling tired and lethargic. Last year, he found himself at a crossroads, weighing almost 300 pounds and facing pre-diabetes and other health challenges that threatened to cut short his life.
After trying weight loss medications, exercise and many different diets, Potier received a consult to Houston VA’s new bariatric program and met Dr. Amelia Lucisano (pictured above).
“I was at the end of my rope after trying so hard to lose weight and not succeeding. Dr. Lucisano told me that with lifestyle changes and a lot of work, she could help me by performing a gastric sleeve operation, and I jumped on it. I could tell from the very beginning that she was in my corner,” Potier shared.
Lucisano, a bariatric surgeon and assistant professor of surgery at Baylor College of Medicine, came to the Houston VA a few short years ago with a special passion for changing Veterans’ lives. After completing general surgery residency and a fellowship in bariatric and minimally-invasive surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, she saw first-hand how weight loss surgery can improve the lives of patients.
She took on the challenge to get a bariatric surgery program up and running at Houston VA in 2024 and she succeeded. Five Veterans underwent weight loss surgery in 2024, with many more expected in 2025. She is proud to offer high-quality, minimally invasive bariatric surgery to Veterans in southeast Texas.
“It’s so rewarding to watch them regain their health.”
“Veterans are often very motivated, tough and determined, very important qualities in candidates for this kind of a surgery. It’s so rewarding to watch them regain their health and their quality of life after surgery,” Lucisano said.
To prepare for his surgery, Potier enrolled in Houston VA’s MOVE! program, learning about nutrition, exercise and how to make lifestyle changes to help him succeed in maintaining long-term weight loss. In December 2024, he had the gastric sleeve operation, and he’s now already feeling much better and is committed to making long-term lifestyle changes to keep the weight off.
“It hasn’t even been a month since my surgery, but I have more energy and have lost weight. I am walking and exercising as much as I can, and I’m no longer considered pre-diabetic. I’m really looking forward to the future,” he said.
“We are thrilled to offer Veterans an improved quality of life.”
According to Lucisano, Veterans with a BMI of 35 and who are committed to permanent lifestyle changes could be candidates for the surgery and should talk to their VA primary care physician about this option. She also recommends enrolling in the VA’s MOVE! program, which is required as part of the preparation for surgery.
“Weight loss surgery can be a life-changing option for Veterans struggling with obesity, especially when other weight loss methods have failed. Through this surgery, we are thrilled to be able to offer Veterans the physical benefits, improved quality of life and mental well-being that allows them to engage more fully in their daily activities,” she said.
Potier, who works at Houston VA as a housekeeping supervisor, is already back on the job after having his surgery. He says having the surgery at his place of work has given him a new appreciation for the clinical care provided at the medical center.
“None of the staff that took care of me at VA knew that I worked here, and they went above and beyond to take good care of me. The nurses and all the doctors were compassionate, caring and professional. I feel incredibly blessed and grateful.”
]]>Michael ‘Ed’ Hogg, a biomedical technician at Western North Carolina VA, is making waves with his recent innovation to improve accessibility for Veterans.
While he was at the cafeteria in the Charles George VA, Hogg noticed a Veteran in a wheelchair struggling to reach the food tray after placing an order. He assisted the Veteran and realized the pressing need for a more accessible solution for individuals with mobility challenges.
Hogg contacted his supervisor who directed him to innovation specialist Dr. Nora Holmes to help refine his ideas. “Pharmacies, banks, there are so many places that use those accessible drawers,” Hogg explained, emphasizing the simplicity yet effectiveness of his concept.
Worked with a local metal shop to create the final product
Hogg assembled a team and began measuring and designing a prototype for an accessible food drawer tailored to the cafeteria environment. Despite initial challenges in finding an existing design, he persevered, creating a cardboard prototype and discussing it with cafeteria supervisors to ensure it met the needs of both Veterans and staff.
After several modifications, he partnered with a local metal shop to create the final product. The development process spanned approximately six months with assistance from maintenance mechanic Glenn Nye.
“Thanks to this event, I learned about the innovation efforts within the hospital. I appreciated how leadership supported my idea,” Hogg shared.
Holmes elaborated on the initiative, highlighting the importance of small changes that can significantly improve daily experiences for Veterans: “It may seem like a little thing, but if you are having a bad day, it’s just one more avoidable frustration.”
The newly installed drawer has already garnered positive feedback from both Veterans and cafeteria employees, streamlining the food service process.
Identifying innovations that improve health care for Veterans
Hogg (pictured above) got the attention and support of local leadership by pitching his idea as part of the Innovator’s Network Spark-Seed-Spread application process. Spark-Seed-Spread is an employee investment program focused on identifying and accelerating front-line employee-inspired innovations that improve health care experiences for Veterans, families, caregivers and employees.
The Spark-Seed-Spread program has been the launching pad for several successful innovation projects within VA facilities, including initiatives implemented nationwide by multiple VA health care facilities.
Among these projects are white noise machines designed to facilitate sleep and reduce anxiety; VEText Prescription Enhancements; WADO, a locally supported recording studio and various applications of virtual reality to improve health care.
]]>Hank Ebert joined the Navy in 1966 as a helicopter combat rescue airman. Based out of Japan and trained as a rescue combat swimmer, he spent two tours flying up and down the Vietnam coastline during the war. Shortly after returning home to Minnesota in September 1970, his life took a dramatic turn.
“I got in a motorcycle accident. Motorcycle versus car. That kind of changed my life a little bit,” he shared.
Ebert’s family took him directly to VA. Unfortunately, his injuries were so severe that he rolled out in a wheelchair.
He went to college and, just before his last quarter, was offered a job from a Brainerd bait shop operator to serve as Minnesota Gov. Rudy Perpich’s guide during the Governor’s Fishing Opener of 1976.
“Yeah, I’m going to go fishing.”
“I was getting bored with college anyway and I thought, yeah, I’m going to go fishing. I ended up fishing for 46 years. I’ve caught a lot of fish, a lot of big fish,” he said.
His years of perseverance as a guide landed him perhaps the biggest fish of them all. He was inducted into the Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame in 2023.
While local fame comes from his angling expertise, he is a bit of a superstar in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games crowd, too. Ebert started competing in the games, co-presented yearly by VA and Paralyzed Veterans of America, in 1993.
“The first game I went to I did five events and got five gold medals. I thought ‘yeah, this is okay.’”
Ebert has competed in over 20 games. One of his most memorable was 2006 in Anchorage, Alaska. Competing in the archery event, he split an arrow already in the target with another arrow. “I was the first person to ever shoot a Robin Hood at the games,” he said.
“It’s just impressive what people will do.”
If winning competitions hooked Hank, it’s the inspiration he sees in other competitors that keeps him on the line.
“There are people here with their physical disabilities… I’m not sure I’d be here in the same situation. It’s just impressive what people will do. People don’t see each other for a year, then it’s all hugs and kisses. It’s just awesome,” he added.
Ebert, 77, is beginning to feel the games are getting to be more work, but the comeraderie with his fellow Veterans keeps him coming back. Being a great competitor doesn’t hurt either. In the 2024 Games in New Orleans, he earned gold in archery and trap shoot, silver in discus and bronze in shotput.
The National Veterans Wheelchair Games will be held in Minneapolis July 17-22, 2025. Learn how you can be a volunteer or register to be an athlete. To see pictures from the 2024 Games, visit 2024 National Veterans Wheelchair Games | Flickr.
]]>Winter weather can be dangerous and unpredictable, bringing risky conditions due to snow, ice, and freezing temperatures that can lead to unexpected injuries and accidents. Common injuries during this season include frostbite, hypothermia and heart strain from overexertion outdoors.
Frostbite occurs when skin freezes from exposure to extreme cold. Hypothermia in cold conditions can set in when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Heart strain can arise when shoveling snow, considering the sudden exertions and lifting heavy snow. Accidents are more likely to due to icy roadways and slippery paths.
By preparing ahead of time you can avoid emergencies, protect your health and keep your loved ones safe. If you live in an area that experiences harsh winters, follow these tips to stay safe and be prepared in the months to come.
10 winter safety tips
- Stay informed. Listen to local officials for weather updates and safety guidance before, during and after storms.
- Prepare emergency supplies. Keep essential items like food, water, and first aid kits at home and at work.
- Use heat safely. Use heating devices according to instructions and install a carbon monoxide alarm if you rely on alternative heat sources.
- Use generators carefully. Place generators at least 20 feet away from doors and windows and shield them from rain or flooding to prevent electrical shock.
- Avoid unnecessary travel. Stay off the roads during and after storms unless absolutely necessary.
- Dress in layers when outdoors. If you must go outside, wear warm layers and limit your time outdoors.
- Watch for cold-weather injuries. Particularly when outdoors for extended time, check for frostbite symptoms (numbness, pale skin) and hypothermia (shivering, confusion, or drowsiness).
- Avoid overexertion. Cold weather can constrict blood vessels, which means your body will need to work even harder to shovel snow and walk in deep snow. This can put a strain on your heart and increase the risk of a heart attack. Pace yourself and take breaks as needed.
- Maintain your car. Routine vehicle maintenance is especially important in winter to prevent breakdowns in severe weather. If possible, switch to snow tires or carry snow chains.
- Pack a car emergency kit. Include a cell phone charger, blankets, warm clothes, a snow shovel, a flashlight with batteries, jumper cables, water and non-perishable snacks. If possible, keep a full gas tank.
Winter safety starts with preparation. By following these tips, you can reduce risks and manage unexpected challenges. Staying informed, having emergency supplies, and taking care of yourself and your family can make a big difference during winter storms.
Get more tips and resources. Stay safe, stay warm and enjoy your winter season.
]]>When Army Veteran Mario Reyes got out of the military in 2007, he carried invisible scars from his service. After struggling with anxiety and depression, he turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism, which only made things harder.
Over the summer, Reyes was the first Veteran admitted to Houston VA’s new Domiciliary and, this month, he was among the first group of Veterans who graduated from the program. The future looks bright as he celebrates four months of sobriety and a renewed sense of purpose.
“I am clean and sober and about to get a new home. VA has so many resources. Once I got into the Domiciliary and started being open to it, I was amazed at how things started falling into place. Now I wake up in the morning feeling hopeful about my future,” he shared.
“I felt lost. I just didn’t know how to handle things.”
The turning point for Reyes came when he was hospitalized at the Houston VA and heard about the new Domiciliary that offers Veterans who have an identified addiction or substance abuse disorder to seek care with residential rehabilitation, recovery and health maintenance.
Reyes jumped at the chance to participate in the Domiciliary program. In turn, he got sober, opened up to therapists, and met and helped other Veterans with similar challenges.
Reyes is pictured above with Domiciliary Chief Michael Abraham at the first Houston VA Domiciliary graduation.
“Our Domiciliary program takes a whole health approach to challenges Veterans may experience, making sure their medical concerns and social needs, such as employment and housing, are addressed,” said Abraham. “We house them while providing a whole host of VA wraparound services. It’s amazing how Veterans like Mr. Reyes can benefit from our program and really change their lives.”
Thirty-three Veterans have already been enrolled in the Domiciliary, which is located just a few miles from the main medical center in a beautiful brand-new modern facility. Once enrolled, each Veteran receives an individualized treatment plan, including group and individual therapy. The program offers Veterans not only a therapeutic environment and a safe haven but also a community of individuals who understand each other’s battles.
Reyes has big plans for the future. He hopes to enroll in VA’s Transitional Work Experience Program and is looking forward to moving into his new apartment. He credits his success to the support of VA staff and his fellow Veterans, and plans to stick around to share his story with others as an alumni of the program.
“This program changed my life and made me believe there are better days ahead. I want to make sure other Veterans know there is hope and help out there,” he added.
]]>Imagine feeling winded after taking just a few steps. For many Veterans with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), this is an everyday reality. COPD affects millions of Americans.
Veterans can face unique risks for the disease due to military exposures to dust, fumes and chemicals during service. Currently, COPD is one of more than two dozen presumed conditions related to the PACT Act.
It’s important to remember that COPD isn’t just about difficulty breathing. It’s about managing your health before symptoms worsen.
Early detection and why it matters
It might be easy to dismiss symptoms like shortness of breath after going up the stairs, a lingering cough that just doesn’t go away, or wheezing after simple activities as part of aging or related to general fatigue. But what may seem like minor inconveniences could be your body’s way of signaling an underlying condition and could be early warning signs of COPD.
Chronic bronchitis and emphysema (two common types of COPD) can make you work harder to breathe especially when you are active and need to breathe faster. With chronic bronchitis, cells in airways produce more mucus than normal and this buildup can cause inflammation, impacting air travel in and out of your lungs.
For those with emphysema, damaged or weakened airways affect oxygen travel throughout your body making it harder to breathe.
Catching and addressing symptoms early can make all the difference. Detecting and treating a disease early can help slow progression and greatly improve your quality of life. When you seek medical attention for issues that can be easy to dismiss, you pave the way for better health, more energy and greater well-being.
VA resources and support for Veterans with COPD
Cutting-edge screenings, treatments and pulmonary care specifically tailored for Veterans are available through VA health care. Telehealth services make it even easier to access care from home, and new innovations in TelePulmonology and TeleSpirometry care have started making lung function testing easier to access as well.
With lifestyle adjustments, exercise programs and breathing techniques, in-person and virtual resources are here to help you stay active and reclaim control over your breathing if you have COPD.
Join VA in raising awareness, educating yourself and others and taking advantage of resources to keep your lungs healthy. Don’t let COPD hold you back. Reach out today for screenings and support and take control of your lung health.
]]>Tomorrow is Giving Tuesday, and during this year’s event, we are excited to invite you to join us in making a difference in your community! This year, we are focusing on expanding our impact through the power of volunteerism and donations. Your support can truly change Veterans’ lives and create a better experience for their families, caregivers and survivors.
VA Volunteers are the heart of our organization, and VA’s Center for Development & Civic Engagement is always looking for passionate individuals like you to become part of the over 27,000 current volunteers who give their time and talent to serve Veterans.
Whether you have a few hours to spare each week or can commit to a regular schedule, your time and skills can make a real difference.
Countless ways to get involved and give back
From greeting Veterans at the entrances of VA medical centers to helping distribute food who are facing food insecurity to driving Veterans to their medical appointments to helping beautify our national cemeteries, there are countless ways to get involved and give back.
In addition to volunteering, donations play a critical role in supplementing programs and services. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, helps VA continue to meet the needs of the Veterans we serve. Your generosity can provide food for a Veteran experiencing food insecurity, and personal care and clothing items for those facing homelessness.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of kindness and compassion in our community.
By becoming a volunteer or donor, you are not just giving your time or money. You are giving hope, support and opportunity to those who need it most. Your actions have the power to transform lives and inspire others to do the same.
Join us and be a part of something truly meaningful
We are grateful for your interest in supporting Veterans’ needs. Together, we can make a positive impact and create a better world for all. Thank you for considering volunteering or donating to VA. Your support means the world to us!
How can you begin your journey and get involved this Giving Tuesday 2024? The first step is contacting your local VA medical facility.
By visiting this site, you or your organization can discover volunteer opportunities, explore donation avenues and support a local VA through an electronic donation.
]]>A Veteran is cancer free thanks to early detection.
Kenneth David Chandler began his service in 1968 and served in Battery A, 26th Field Artillery, in Germany. He turned to VA care after retirement.
During a routine physical at the Cape Girardeau VA Health Care Center, it was determined that Chandler met the eligibility criteria for lung cancer screening. Until then, Chandler wasn’t familiar with the process and was surprised at how simple and straightforward it was.
“Lung cancer screening is an easy process, quick and painless. You lay down on the table, they run you through and take the pictures,” Chandler shared. Thanks to his screening, his doctor identified a small cancerous growth on his left lung.
Soon after receiving his cancer diagnosis, Chandler’s doctor moved quickly. “I felt strongly we needed to take an aggressive approach to his care,” said Dr. Andrea Covey, pulmonary physician at Kansas City VA.
Three months after receiving treatment, Chandler was cancer-free. “Just four radiation treatments was all it took. I never felt sick and barely even noticed the treatment happening. I’m incredibly grateful to VA for making this possible. They made sure I received the best care,” he said.
Chandler remains closely monitored through VA’s survivorship program, receiving a CT scan every six months to monitor his progress. His cancer journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection.
Raising awareness for lung cancer screening
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer related death among Veterans. Screening can be lifesaving because lung cancer is most treatable when caught early. As of October 2024, VA has offered lung cancer screening to more than 278,000 eligible Veterans across 121 screening centers, a 305% increase since December 2021.
VA is dedicated to providing systematic, integrated and equitable access to high-quality lung cancer screening processes for Veterans like Chandler.
If you are a Veteran between 50-80 years old and smoke or have smoked in the past, it’s not too late to contact your local VA health care provider to find out if lung cancer screening is right for you.
To see Chandler’s full story, visit: Kansas City VA Medical Center on Vimeo.
]]>Ron Anderson’s journey as primary family caregiver for his father Lee Anderson is one of love and respect.
Ron said nothing could have prepared him for the challenging yet rewarding experience he had embarked on. “My mom and dad were married for 65 years. After she died, dad remained pretty independent for about two years, until he broke his hip.”
Following that incident, Ron moved in with his father to provide him with care and support. “He didn’t want to be in a nursing home. He wanted to age at home. I was going to make that happen. Love and duty guided me to be his caregiver,” he said.
Lee Anderson’s life of service
Speaking of his father, Lee, Ron said that “His parents wouldn’t let him join early. So, he contributed to the war by moving to Los Angeles, where he worked at Lockheed building planes for the English before the U.S. got involved.”
Lee continued his work until 1942, when he was drafted into the Army Air Corps. He had earned a commission as a flight officer by 1945. Despite his desire to be more directly involved in combat, Lee spent most of his time stateside where he played a crucial role ferrying planes across the eastern seaboard.
But as Lee aged, his needs grew. Ron sacrificed his job to take on a caregiver role full-time. “He relied on me every hour of every day. When he was up, I was up too,” Ron said.
Ron emphasized the emotional aspects of caregiving, explaining there were strenuous days and moments filled with laughter and love. “It’s hard seeing a parent age and become more dependent and vulnerable. There were moments of pure frustration and sadness, but also deep connection and happiness.”
Support from VA Salt Lake City
Ron found help at Salt Lake VA’s Caregiver Support program, which was crucial to his journey. “They gave me resources and guidance that helped me to care for dad at home. It was a turning point for me. I had no prior experience being a caregiver.”
One key figure in this journey was nurse Lori Davis, who “changed what I thought about VA. She helped me navigate the health care system and provided care that went beyond dad’s medical needs.”
Davis’s aid included arranging for a new wheelchair when Lee needed it and coordinating respite care. “VA helped me care for him at home where he was happiest and it made all the difference,” Ron added.
Journey’s end
Ron’s caregiver journey ended in 2024 with Lee’s passing at 102. “Caring for dad was my way of honoring his life and service. VA helping me do it is their way of honoring his life and service.”
]]>Central Alabama VA is working with the VISN 7 Clinical Resource Hub (CRH) to improve eye care services for Veterans in central Alabama. One major challenge has been the question of overcoming long distances that rural Veterans have to travel to see eye specialists.
Central Alabama VA’s partnership with VISN 7 CRH—led by Dr. April Maa, director of Virtual Eye Care Services—resulted in the launch of Technology-based Eye Care Services (TECS) at Central Alabama VA in 2019. Eye Care Services uses telehealth to make routine eye care, like screenings and eyeglass prescriptions, more accessible to rural Veterans.
Mobile services bring eye care directly to Veterans
A big step forward came in November 2020 when TECS introduced mobile clinics that provide follow-up care after virtual eye exams. The mobile services at Central Alabama VA-Montgomery have brought critical eye care directly to Veterans. What started as 10 percent of clinic time has now increased to nearly 50 percent, showing how effective and in-demand these services are.
Central Alabama VA has also expanded eye care services to Columbus, where specialized clinics have been held twice a month since February 2024.
In April 2024, Central Alabama VA and VISN 7 CRH launched Synchronous Tele-Glaucoma clinics, a new service that connects Veterans with glaucoma specialists using Clinical Video Telehealth.
Dr. Annette Giangiacomo, a glaucoma specialist in Milwaukee, works with VISN 7 CRH to provide expert care without requiring Veterans to travel far.
“Synchronous Tele-Glaucoma clinics are a game changer,” said Dr. Saima Kanwal, Acute Care & Specialties at Central Alabama VA. “They ensure our Veterans receive specialized care for severe glaucoma locally, enhancing patient-provider relationships and facilitating timely treatment.”
Telehealth system allows interaction between Veterans and providers
The Clinical Video Telehealth system allows real-time interaction between Veterans and providers, improving diagnosis and education.
“This approach ensures continuity of care comparable to face-to-face visits, with specialists having access to comprehensive patient records and the ability to conduct thorough examinations remotely,” said Jacqueline Bricken, ophthalmology technician.
Central Alabama VA and VISN 7 CRH are committed to expanding telehealth services and finding new ways to deliver specialized care in the future. “Our goal is to continue breaking down geographic barriers,” said Kanwal, “ensuring all Veterans receive the highest quality eye care regardless of location.”
]]>Intimate partner violence (IPV) and suicide are critical public health issues impacting countless lives each year. While these issues are often treated separately, they can be deeply interconnected.
When individuals face violence from someone they trust and love, it creates an environment of isolation, fear and despair. The emotional toll of an abusive relationship often leads to feelings of hopelessness, shame and a perceived lack of escape, all of which can significantly elevate the risk of suicide.
“Our annual Partner Violence & Suicide Prevention conference is an important initiative in closing the gap between IPV and suicide prevention,” said social worker Andrea Predl, IPV prevention coordinator, Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks (VHSO) in Fayetteville, Arkansas. “However, there is still much work to be done. We must continue raising awareness about the connection between these two issues and promote the resources available for those at risk. It is essential to talk openly about these topics and their devastating impact on mental health, especially within the Veteran community.”
Raising awareness about the connection
The VA sponsored conference brought together experts and community members to discuss the warning signs of abuse and suicidal ideation. The presentations emphasized a multidisciplinary approach and how mental health professionals, social workers and health care providers can collaborate to offer comprehensive care to Veterans at risk.
One of the key takeaways was the importance of screening for both IPV and suicidal tendencies during routine health care visits. By incorporating these questions into regular assessments, providers can help catch warning signs early and intervene before a situation escalates.
Safety plan to leave abusive relationship
Conference participants also learned the importance of individuals creating safety plans in the event they needed to leave an abusive relationship or seek help during a crisis. Resources shared included safe places to go, important contacts, available shelters and other critical information.
“The day was about hope and sharing best practices with one another,” said Suicide Prevention Program Manager Jenny Gano.
While discussing the different programs provided by VA, including counseling, support groups and trauma-informed care, VA staff ensured community members were aware of available Veteran-specific tools and the unique challenges Veterans face.
It was noted that the Health Care System of the Ozarks provides specialized resources tailored to those who have experienced trauma related to their military service.
The conference encouraged partnerships between health care providers, law enforcement, shelters and suicide prevention hotlines to create a support network for those in need.
“This approach helps ensure that individuals have access to the right resources at the right time,” said Gano. “We know VA alone cannot prevent suicide, so we work diligently to partner with the community and other providers to help get resources to all.
“By continuing to educate ourselves and others, we can work toward a future where Veterans experiencing crisis are not left to struggle in silence and where suicide prevention efforts are integrated into every aspect of health care.”
If you or someone you know is facing intimate partner violence or experiencing thoughts of suicide, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) or the Veterans Crisis Line (988, press 1).
]]>Sculptor Robert Gulley had fallen on hard times.
The 77-year-old Veteran lived alone in a small rural town in Illinois. He was having trouble with alcohol and his arthritis made it extremely painful for him to walk.
Because of his pain, Gulley began living in his car last year. He parked it in his driveway and drove to get his meals from fast food drive throughs. He had little contact with the outside world and was sitting for so long in his driver’s seat that he developed ulcers, wounds and infections. He couldn’t take any of his prescribed medications or reach his belongings as they were inside his home. Over time, it became agonizing for him to even drive.
In January, VA provider Dr. Anuja Vallabh called Gulley after he had been referred to her for his alcohol use disorder. Vallabh works as a remote provider for VISN 12’s Clinical Resource Hub. Through her check-ins, she soon learned that Gulley was living in his car.
Vallabh scheduled Gulley a consultation appointment for a residential rehabilitation facility. Gulley agreed to go but he didn’t show up. When Vallabh followed up, Gulley would again agree to go but not show, and he would refuse offers of transportation or additional support. After weeks of follow-ups, Vallabh could hear just how ill he was becoming. She became very worried. Still, Gulley pleaded for “just one more day” before she intervened.
“I didn’t think he would make it through the weekend,” Vallabh said.
Vallabh made the difficult decision that day to call adult protective services. An ambulance came to take Gulley to the hospital. At that point, Gulley, who stands over six feet tall, weighed only 127 pounds.
The sculptor
Gulley served as a radio operator during the Vietnam War. When he returned, he followed his passion and studied fine arts with help from the G.I. Bill. He apprenticed with Richard Hunt, a legendary sculptor and civil rights ambassador, for two years while he honed his own sculpting skills. He then moved to New York to pursue a Master of Fine Arts.
Gulley began working in construction in Manhattan to earn money, but he always found time to sculpt. He drew inspiration from his time with Hunt and from Vietnam. Sculpting served as a form of therapy for him, as he had experienced panic attacks after his military service.
His sculptures have been featured in The New York Times and other news outlets. In 2014, Gulley competed against 5,500 artists and won first place for his sculpture “Prairie Fire” in the National Veterans Creative Arts competition.
After four decades in New York, Gulley retired and moved to his current home in Illinois. He would regularly drive 90 minutes each way to the nearest VA facility to receive care. He didn’t mind the long trip as he was a member of a ceramics studio near the facility.
Eventually, as his pain worsened, he stopped going to in-person appointments, halted visits to the ceramics studio and began to isolate himself.
The provider
Vallabh is a clinical pharmacist practitioner with a specialty in mental health and substance use disorders at VA’s Clinical Resource Hub in VISN 12. She works remotely to support VA facilities in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan when they need a specialist or extra coverage.
She mostly meets with Veterans through VA Video Connect, VA’s secure videoconferencing app. Sometimes these appointments take place over the phone if a Veteran has limited access to a tablet or computer, like with Gulley.
It was during one of these phone calls that she realized the severity of Gulley’s situation. Her actions that day may have saved Gulley’s life. “He is somebody who is just so likable, so kind and I felt so bad that he was alone and going through all of this,” she said.
Gulley has expressed gratitude for the actions Vallabh took that day and her persistence in care throughout the prior months.
Staying connected with telehealth
Gulley did go to a rehabilitation facility and celebrated three months of sobriety. He is also walking again with support from a walker and gaining back his weight.
“I am glad to be alive,” Gulley said. “I’m doing better.”
For more information on telehealth resources, visit VA Telehealth Services.
]]>Tennessee Valley VA’s recreational therapy program offers several opportunities for Veterans looking to improve their mental and physical health. One of those opportunities is Project Healing Waters.
Joshua Green, a volunteer service specialist at Tennessee Valley VA, didn’t envision himself with a group like Project Healing Waters in Chattanooga, but life seemed to have a different plan for him. His co-workers encouraged him to join and said how he would benefit from the healing and stress relief.
“Like a lot of other stuff, the first step, the first meeting is the hardest,” said Green, a Marine Corps Veteran. “I talked to Ross Schweinforth, program lead for Project Healing Waters, a few times and then finally made the decision to come on out there and check it out.”
The most difficult part in healing is taking that first step. Just like the first step into the recruiter’s office, entering a meeting with new people and surroundings can be anxiety inducing and deter most individuals.
According to Sarah Howard, recreational therapist, Veterans dealing with mental health barriers may find it challenging to muster the courage needed to take that first step toward healing. Too often, the buildup of anxiety can impact Veterans in ways they may not be aware of. Recreational Therapy programs and organizations like Project Healing Waters give Veterans a chance to channel their stress in active and positive ways.
For Project Healing Waters, that outlet is fly fishing
Green is not the first or last Veteran to find camaraderie in the organization. Schweinforth, a Veteran, started the Chattanooga chapter of Project Healing Waters. He saw the need to combine his joy of fly fishing with the need to help Veterans work through their stress and re-connect to their community.
“It’s an organization that cares about healing mentally, physically and socially. It’s healing your wounds. I’m blessed and I don’t believe in coincidence, but God sent me here for a reason,” said Daniel Ferrere, Sr., Veteran and member of Project Healing Waters.
Each meeting of the Chattanooga chapter teaches Veterans various skills such as fly tying, casting and more. Veterans are educated and led by chapter volunteers with more than 200 years of combined fly fishing experience. It is an environment where Veterans from all generations come together regardless of experience and have a chance to learn a new skill.
“After the first meeting, I was completely hooked,” said Green.
The use of a fly fishing rod, reel and fly may appear simple compared to the rigors of military field manuals, but the volunteers at Project Healing Waters are up to the task of training Veterans.
What makes fly fishing a stress relief opportunity is that it can be practiced almost anywhere. Before the meeting, several pairs of Veterans and volunteers stood shoulder to shoulder casting in the grass. It was a chance for Veterans to show their coaches their development since the last meeting.
Found relaxation in the river
The monthly meetings are just the first nibble at the line for Veterans joining the organization. Meetings are where Veterans learn about the equipment, the skills and the team, but it’s on the water where Veterans find themselves.
Mike Pepper found a peace he didn’t know was missing. Pepper, a Navy Corpsman in Vietnam, found relaxation in the river.
“I had no idea what to expect. For about four hours, I stood in one spot because I was really enjoying what I was doing. It was something fun,” he said.
Pepper is like many Veterans who find the tranquility of water releases stress they may not realize they were carrying.
What makes the Chattanooga chapter unique is the combination of Veterans from all different eras of military service— like those from Vietnam, Gulf War/Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and more. It’s the different perspectives but the combined brotherhood and sisterhood that unites these Veterans and volunteers under one banner—the love of fly fishing.
“You know, my best day of fishing, I didn’t catch a fish. One of my best days of fishing, I assisted some Veterans catching fish and that just really got me,” said volunteer David Ligon.
Opportunities for Veterans to improve their physical health
Project Healing Waters is one of many organizations and programs that partner with Tennessee Valley where Veterans can find support through physical activities to tackle stress and trauma. The recreational therapy program offers several opportunities for Veterans looking to improve their mental and physical health.
“Our Recreational Therapy program is a holistic, strength-based approach to care that uses various leisure and recreational activities to help Veterans find joy in their lives,” Howard said. “Our goal is to help improve a Veteran’s physical functioning, mental health, independence and overall quality of life through participation in activities that are meaningful for the Veteran. Treatment is based upon the Veteran’s strengths, needs and goals.”
Part of recreational therapy is the adaptive sports program, which includes a range of activities like bocce ball, shuffleboard, ping pong, pickleball, rowing, bowling, archery and more. Aquatic therapy, vibroacoustic therapy and the center of equine therapy for Veterans are other activities offered to eligible Veterans to promote a healthier lifestyle.
“Whether it is learning how to walk again, successfully reintegrating into the community or finding their new purpose in life, we have had Veterans use what they have learned to give back to other Veterans,” said Howard.
Green was hesitant to join a new group, but he is now the one spreading the word to others like him. He is keeping the tradition alive and supporting his fellow Veterans on the water.
]]>Today, Gary Duncan is 50 years sober. His sobriety journey has taken him from the depths of despair to the heights of recovery.
In the early years of his life, the Navy Veteran was spiraling out of control. His first marriage collapsed due to alcohol abuse and his second marriage ended early when his wife’s life was taken by a drunk driver. Alcohol became a crutch for him and was a way to numb the pain and to silence the demons that tormented him.
Duncan was at the end of himself. But even broken and in his darkest moments, a flicker of hope and light came to him. He knew he could not continue that path. He knew he needed help.
Duncan remembers his first car ride to his local VA hospital in the back of a police car for detox treatment in 1974. The following day, he returned to the hospital after he was released. He recalled this day being a pivotal moment for him: He was offered the chance to join the Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program (RRTP) at the Alvin C. York VA in Murfreesboro, but declined.
“You’re the only one who doesn’t get it.”
The following day, he changed his mind and returned to the program. Duncan’s mother drove him to Murfreesboro and had a very forthright and truthful conversation with him when she said something he would always remember: “Gary, everyone sees how you live except you. You’re the only one who doesn’t get it.”
At first, he was skeptical. He had been drinking heavily for years. But the staff at Alvin C. York VA saw a glimmer of hope in him. They offered him a bed, a warm meal and a chance to start over.
Duncan attended therapy sessions, joined support groups and began to rebuild his life. The road to recovery was not easy, but with the support of VA and newfound friends he made in the recovery program, he persevered.
RRTP, located at Alvin C. York VA, is a voluntary program that provides high quality, comprehensive programming using Veteran-centered practices. The program offers state-of-the-art residential rehabilitation and treatment services for Veterans with treatment for substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.
“The kindness he saw at VA gave him hope”
“Each Veteran is assigned to an individual therapist and receives one-on-one care. Veterans are involved in programs throughout the day that includes groups sessions such as occupational therapy. Whole Health and dietitians are involved. It’s definitely a broader scope of treatment. RRTP is connected to a lot of different services,” said Michael Gulley, Tennessee Valley VA psychiatric nurse practitioner.
With years of issues, Duncan’s turning point was not simple. However, the kindness he saw at VA gave him hope to try anew.
“I had been in numerous situations with detox and programs, and I could not quit drinking. When I arrived at VA, it was the kindness of the staff and the program itself that really touched me. I look back at that and it was the starting point for my recovery. I also looked to God as I understood him due to the witness of family and friends,” Duncan said.
“We have done a really good job with being more individualized in Veteran care and matching the needs of the program to what the Veteran feels like their needs are when they come in,” Gulley added.
Today, Duncan is 50 years sober. Forty-five years of marriage, nine children and 23 grandchildren are a testament and a reminder of his journey. “I have a life I could not have imagined if not for this opportunity from VA.”
]]>For some, self-care can mean being “self-indulgent,” like spending precious time doing frivolous things for yourself. For others, it means engaging in activities that bring joy, the kind that boost both mental and physical well-being.
I see self-care as closely tied to well-being. If you enjoy kayaking, the time spent on the water enhances your well-being. Similarly, if you look forward to Sunday brunch with a friend, sharing a meal with someone you care about boosts your sense of well-being.
However, for Veterans, it can be challenging to put ourselves first. Veterans were trained to serve others and prioritize the mission over our own needs. But prioritizing your well-being is far from frivolous. In fact, focusing on your overall self helps strengthen protective factors and reduce risk factors for suicide—which I’ll explain further below.
Self-care helps build a network of support
Protective factors are characteristics associated with a decreased likelihood of suicide behaviors and can help offset risk factors like stressful life events and certain mental health conditions. Protective factors include:
- Access to mental health and substance use disorder care.
- Feeling connected to other people.
- Positive coping skills.
- Resilience.
So, what does this mean for you? It means keeping appointments with your health care providers, finding ways to connect with others, joining a community group, finding a faith-based organization that aligns with your beliefs, exploring volunteer opportunities in your area, or taking a class at a local rec center or gym.
Increasing protective factors builds networks of support that can help prevent suicide by promoting physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness.
VA resources promote well-being
Regardless of when, where or how you served, all Veterans have earned access to support and resources. VA offers a range of programs and initiatives that can help build protective factors to reduce the risk of a suicide crisis.
Don’t wait. Reach out.: You don’t have to solve life’s challenges alone. This website helps Veterans proactively seek support and resources, no matter what you’re facing. Resources are broken down by category, including:
- Experiencing Grief or Loss.
- Feelings of Depression.
- Feelings of Isolation.
- Health Challenges.
- Living with a Disability.
VA’s Safety Plan app: This app helps you create a custom step-by-step action plan to keep yourself safe when experiencing thoughts about suicide or self-harm. You can identify personal coping strategies and sources of support—giving thoughts of suicide time to decrease and become more manageable.
There are six steps to creating your safety plan. It’s important to create your safety plan when you’re not in distress, so you can think clearly and have time to complete the steps.
- Step 1: Warning signs (that I may be headed toward a crisis).
- Step 2: Ways I can cope (on my own).
- Step 3: My distractions (places I can go and people I can call).
- Step 4: Friends and family I can call (for support).
- Step 5: Professionals I can call (in times of crisis).
- Step 6: Keeping myself safe (by limiting my access to dangerous objects).
Many VA resources are available to all Veterans, regardless of enrollment in VA benefits or health care.
No one knows if or when a crisis will happen. But you’re less likely to face a crisis if you foster and develop strategies that can enhance your emotional and physical health.
]]>At VA, our goal is to make sure Veterans and their caregivers can easily find, understand and use our information and services. Every day, VA staff work to help Veterans understand what VA has to offer. We make this a priority to ensure that you can make informed decisions for your best health. The concept known as “health literacy” helps us achieve this goal.
Health literacy, as defined by the Department of Health and Human Services, has two major components.
- Personal health literacy refers to people like you who access health information and services. How easily you can find, understand and use those resources determines your personal health literacy.
- Organizational health literacy refers to health care organizations like VA. How well an organization empowers people to find, understand and use information and services determines its organizational health literacy.
VA recognizes our responsibility to ensure organizational health literacy. When we make it easier to understand our information and services, you’re better equipped to make decisions and get the most out of your care.
“The best kind of dialogue between patient and provider.”
“Health literacy is foundational to the best kind of dialogue between patient and provider. It empowers Veterans to take charge of their own health.” Dr. Carolyn Clancy, assistant under secretary for Health for Discovery, Education, and Affiliate Networks.
One of the best ways to ensure a better experience is to prepare for your next visit with your health care provider:
- Prepare questions before your appointment.
- Talk with your provider about any questions or concerns you may have.
- Take notes during the visit.
- Bring a friend or family member for support and shared understanding.
You can learn more by speaking with your provider or by reviewing VA’s online resources, listed below:
- Preparing for a Visit with Your Healthcare Provider | Veterans Affairs (va.gov) – This resource on the Veterans Health Library contains helpful tips to get the most out of your healthcare.
- AHRQ QuestionBuilder | VA Mobile – his app helps you prepare for your next visit by suggesting questions you might ask or be asked by your provider.
- “Ask Me Three ®” (youtube.com) – Ask Me 3® refers to three main questions that can help you focus your concerns at your next visit: What’s the main problem? What do I need to do? Why is it important for me to do this?
- Be Involved in Your Health Care – National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention (va.gov) – This page from VA’s National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention helps you take an active role in your health care.
- VA Resource Navigator – This tool helps Veterans better find and use VA resources. The Navigator can help you find the resources you need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.