The history of addiction treatment at VA, Part 2

Morphinism and the National Homes, 1880-1916 Over the past 250 years, America’s Veterans have faced challenges that are persistent, yet unique to each generation. Substance abuse and addiction are examples of challenges that have long affected Veteran communities. America’s first opioid crisis is widely considered to have started during the Civil War, and it severely…

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Remarkable centenarian: Honoring Carl Wier, American hero

A century of service On Oct. 12, 2025, in Mauston, Wisconsin, a heartfelt celebration unfolded beneath the modest ceiling of St. Patrick’s parish basement. This gathering was not just marked by colorful balloons and cake—this was a tribute to a man whose century-long journey embodies duty, resilience and boundless love: Carl Wier, who had just…

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See the Difference: Radiology careers at VA 

Radiology professionals at VA connect diagnoses with treatment to enable the highly personalized care Veterans deserve. From capturing images on state-of-the-art equipment to collaborating with clinical teams on the proper treatment, radiology specialists at VA play a vital role in delivering high-quality care to those who served our nation. Keep reading to learn more about radiology at VA and…

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Live Whole Health #295: Sink into relaxation

If your health care team suggested a body scan, you might immediately tense up imagining yourself sliding into a coffin-like machine. Good news—this isn’t that! The kind of body scan we’re talking about can provide complete and total relaxation. This is one you should add to your well-being routine! Head-to-toe relaxation In this video, retired…

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A lifetime of service: Healing others and overcoming cancer

Mark Denney is a physician assistant at Oklahoma City VA Health Care System (OKCVA). When something felt wrong in his throat, he turned to the same place where he helps fellow Veterans heal. Denney served in the Army from 1986 to 1991 as an operating room technician. He worked in a trauma hospital in El…

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Veteran volunteer gives 28,000 hours

Veteran and volunteer gives back through art “It all started with art,” said volunteer Maggie DeRee. That’s how she began what is now a 25-year relationship with VA, clocking in nearly 28,000 volunteer hours.    DeRee, also a Veteran, went to basic training at a time when women were still referred to as “WACs,” the Women’s…

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Standing together against breast cancer

Early detection saves lives Breast cancer is most treatable when caught early. That’s why VA strongly encourages eligible Veterans, both women and men, to schedule regular screenings and mammograms. VA follows national screening guidelines, recommending annual or biennial mammograms for most women beginning at age 40, or earlier for those with family history or increased risk. Veterans…

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Managing stress in the holiday season

Learn how to identify and manage your stress For many, the end of the year marks a period of observance and celebration. We each have our own time-honored traditions, often gathering with friends and family to focus on what matters most with those most important to us. The holiday season is a time of warmth,…

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‘VA treatment gave me a new lease on life’

93-year-old Virginia Veteran is home and thriving after VA treatment Army Veteran William Huff is a resilient man who, with the help of the Salem VA Health Care System (SVAMC), defied the odds to return home to continue doing the things he loves most. But in January 2025, the future for the 93-year-old Veteran was…

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Extending VA’s reach in preventing veteran suicide

Continuing its Veteran suicide prevention mission by funding community-based programs across the country Now entering its fourth year, the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program (SSG Fox SPGP) strengthens the capacity of local organizations around the country to provide a range of suicide prevention services for Veterans, service members and their families.…

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Serving Veterans comes with benefits: Discover yours 

Explore what VA can offer you today No matter your health care profession or experience level, joining the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will start you on the path to a rewarding and meaningful career. From clinical innovations to employee benefits, VA invests in you and your career so that you can focus on providing…

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Cancer care & well-being: VA empowers Veterans nationwide

In pursuit of VA’s commitment to providing high-quality and Veteran-first care, VA’s National Oncology Program recognizes the significance of a whole health approach to cancer care. Faced with the challenges of cancer, maintaining well-being is truly critical. VA has a wealth of resources, guidance and real-world perspectives that empower Veterans, protect Veteran well-being and foster…

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