An Air Force Veteran prepares for a marathon in Greece while continuing his recovery from a spinal cord injury Air Force Veteran Auston Duncan is training for a marathon in Greece as he continues recovering from a spinal cord injury. He plans to dedicate the race to VA as a way of saying thank you.…
From uniform to unforgettable: USMC Veteran Benjamin Summers, Jr.
Some stories don’t just show us what service looks like, they show us what endurance looks like, too. Take this month’s “From Uniform to Unforgettable” spotlight, a celebration of the life and service of Marine Corps Veteran Benjamin Summers, Jr. Summers grew up in Philadelphia during World War II and remembered seeing Marines in his…
The future of mental health care is at VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is leading the nation in transforming mental health care for America’s Veterans and we’re looking for passionate mental health care providers to join us on that journey. As patient needs continue to evolve, VA offers a unique environment where evidence-based care, cutting-edge research and innovative technologies come together to…
Heart health research from MVP
New research study uncovers gene for heart muscle disease Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States—and that it can often be prevented? At VA’s Million Veteran Program (MVP), we’re using information from Veterans in our program to study the detection, prevention and treatment of heart disease. New study uncovers…
Live Whole Health #303: Growing with intention
As a Health Coach, I know what is most important to clients by simply looking at their calendars. Appointments, kids’ activities, church functions—these all tell me what really matters in their lives. As we work together, they begin to add health and well-being goals to the schedule. Adding their goals to their calendars helps them…
Rolling for recovery: Dungeons & Dragons to support Veteran wellness
Orlando VA program uses tabletop gaming to build connection Veterans across the VA Healthcare System are finding connection, creativity and emotional wellness through the role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons, an unexpected but powerful tool being used in a growing mental health initiative known as the Reimagining Veterans’ Emotions, Actions, and Life Skills (REVEAL) Program. On…
Take charge of your heart health this American Heart Month
Simple steps to prevent heart disease and protect cardiovascular health February is American Heart Month, and a reminder to focus on cardiovascular health and to encourage heart health habits. At VA, we are dedicated to helping Veterans receive the best care and support to maintain a healthy heart. Heart disease remains the leading cause of…
Riding for a cause: A mission to S.A.V.E. our Veterans
A meaningful ride for a powerful cause For 12 consecutive years, the New Mexico American Legion Riders (ALR) have revved their engines for a cause that resonates deeply within their community: raising awareness about Veteran suicide. Their annual “Be the One” New Mexico S.A.V.E. Run is not just a motorcycle ride, it’s a powerful movement…
Rural community profile: Revisiting Big Spring, Texas
With almost a quarter of all Veterans in the United States residing in rural communities, ensuring they receive quality health care close to home is more important than ever. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) actively works to meet these Veterans in their own communities and promotes opportunities for them to live happy and healthy lives. One…
A new era of healing: Welcoming West Texas VA’s first facility service dog
Loretta’s journey from Canine Companions to becoming a beloved partner for Veterans The West Texas VA Health Care System (WTVAHCS) is filled with excitement as it welcomes its first facility service dog—a remarkable partner from Canine Companions (CC), one of the nation’s most respected service dog organizations. Her arrival has brought smiles, curiosity, and a…
Watch out for scams and stay safe while online shopping
The holiday season may be over, but online sales continue. Post-holiday deals attract shoppers—and unfortunately, scammers. Fraud targeting Veterans and their families often increases during this time as criminals exploit online shopping and holiday generosity. VA wants to empower Veterans and their families to recognize deceptive tactics and refuse to engage with scammers. An increase…
Staying home, staying healthy
With home-based care Like many older Veterans, Oran Parrish has worked diligently to remain in his own home for as long as possible. Unlike others, Parrish is a 101-year-old WWII Navy Veteran. Thanks to the Home-Based Primary Care program at the Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks (VHSO) and two dedicated employees—Dr. Kathy…