Life is full of contrasts. We experience bright days and dark nights, moments of high energy and times of rest, feelings of joy and periods of sadness, as well as the hunger that comes before the comfort of feeling full. This is the concept of Yin and Yang in traditional Chinese medicine. Yin and Yang…
From dirt to dignity: How a nurse’s garden became a path to healing
Nurse Robin’s compassion transforms a courtyard into a healing sanctuary of recovery In the world of mental health rehabilitation, small acts of kindness and creativity can spark profound change. That’s what happened recently when a registered nurse at the Gulf Coast Veterans Healthcare System took the initiative to revive an outside sitting area for Veterans…
‘A team that won’t let go’: Sheridan VA supports a Veteran’s recovery
How Navy Veteran David Korst found work, stability and recovery with help from Sheridan VA David Korst served in the Navy as a machinist’s mate second class from 2007 to 2013. After his discharge, he tried college, but that didn’t work out the way he’d hoped. Around 2018, a bike crash in Oahu, Hawaii, left…
Interim housing: A bridge to permanent stability for homeless Veterans
More than a temporary place to stay Interim housing is much more than a temporary place to stay. For Veterans experiencing homelessness, it provides a safe place to sleep while connecting them with the healthcare, housing, employment and other supports they need to work toward permanent housing. VA provides interim housing through two programs: the…
Take a bite out of VA’s excellent employee benefits with a career in food service
A healthy, nutritious (and delicious) meal can go a long way toward healing both body and soul. That’s why the cooks and food service workers that support our facilities here at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are so valuable, and why we’re always looking for more talented folks to join those teams. “If you’re…
Hurricane Isaias threatens Gulf Coast: VA activates national response to protect Veterans and families
Hurricane Isaias, the Atlantic season’s first hurricane, is strengthening in the Gulf of America and is forecast to make landfall late tonight or early Saturday along the northern Gulf Coast, bringing dangerous winds, storm surge and heavy rain from Mississippi to the Florida Panhandle and inland into the Southeast. Storm outlook and risks Forecasters expect…
Gold Star Mother reflects on Miami VAMC named after her son
‘We’ll never forget them, so we don’t want you to forget them.’ At 95, Gold Star Mother Georgie Carter-Krell still reports to the front desk of the Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center in Miami, helping Veterans find their appointments and joking that the job lets her tell men where to go. After nearly four…
Privacy and security in genetic research
VA’s Million Veteran Program protects your data The Million Veteran Program (MVP), VA’s largest genetic research effort, is studying how genes, lifestyle, military experiences and exposures affect health and wellness. Veterans who join MVP provide a blood sample for genetic analysis, complete surveys about health and wellness, and grant researchers secure access to their electronic…
Dayton’s most experienced EHR users see the future of VA healthcare
The transition to the Federal Electronic Health Record (EHR) at the Dayton VA Medical Center (VAMC) is more than a technical upgrade, it’s a moment shaped by the people who have dedicated their careers to advancing Veteran care. Among them are three leaders whose combined experience, warmth and unwavering commitment shine through every conversation: Marna…
From service to success: How VetFran helps Veterans build businesses
Finding the next mission can be challenging for Veterans at every stage of life, whether it’s pursuing a new professional chapter or seeking a renewed sense of purpose. VetFran, a program launched by the International Franchise Association 35 years ago, is uniquely positioned to help Veterans and military families explore franchise ownership and career opportunities…
Lower interest rates for Native American home loans
Many Native American Veterans want to return home to their tribal lands after their military service ends so they can be close to family and reconnect with the culture, traditions and community that shaped them. For many, this dream becomes reality through the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) Native American Direct Loans (NADL) program. Each…
More Veterans are choosing VA healthcare. Find out what VA can offer you
No one knows Veterans better than VA. VA healthcare is built around Veterans’ unique needs and experiences, with comprehensive care that recognizes their service and supports their health and well-being. Through the Choose VA campaign, VA is helping more Veterans understand what is available to them by answering eligibility questions, addressing common misconceptions and explaining…