Category: VA

Quitting smoking is one of the best steps you can take to improve your health and well-being. However, breaking the habit can be a challenge. That’s why VA offers digital tools to support you on your journey to becoming tobacco-, nicotine- and smoke-free. Whether you need encouragement, mindfulness techniques or structured guidance, these three VA…

The basketball game is over and your team was slaughtered. As you and your teammates wearily leave the gym, you hear the cheer from the stands: “2-4-6-8 Who do we appreciate? Tigers! Tigers! Tigers!” Well, even when you lose, it’s nice to be appreciated by your classmates and community! Who cheers for you now? Your…

In a serene corner of Chattanooga, Tennessee, a group of Veterans are finding more than just a leisurely pastime—they are reclaiming their lives. Through the Professional Golf Association (PGA) HOPE program, Veterans from across the nation are learning the art of golf, but more importantly, they are discovering a sense of community, purpose, and, in…

A Marine, paralyzed in a fishing accident nearly a year ago, is about to embark on the next phase of his new life, buoyed by his Marine brethren and the Spinal Cord Injury Unit at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center. Cpl. Skyler Correia, 22, of Reedsburg, Wis., received a surprise visitor Wednesday in SCI —…

VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System’s Design-on-Demand Innovation team routinely creates solutions for Veteran patients that enhance care and improve quality of life. VA health care providers encounter a wide range of Veteran patient injuries and conditions that routinely present opportunities for innovations that will improve patients’ quality of life. One such innovation, developed recently by…

Each year, VHA’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) conducts disaster-related exercises throughout the nation at strategic hubs, known as Federal Coordinating Centers (FCC), intended for receiving and coordinating patient care. The exercises provide VA staff and partner agencies the opportunity to achieve and sustain a high-level of readiness for major incidents. Additionally, it is an…

Cruz Roque-Vicens was born in July 1934 in Caguas, Puerto Rico. The son of Aurora Vicens and former professional boxer Cruz Roque-Rios, he attended José Gautier Benítez High School in Caguas, where he played softball, ran track and field and graduated with a degree in bookkeeping. While working as a bookkeeper, Roque-Vicens joined the Army…

A Boy Scout on the path to earning Eagle Scout rank donated 150 kits for hospitalized Veterans during an April 21 event held at Overton Brooks VA Medical Center. Alexander Horne, 17, knew he wanted his Eagle Scout project to honor the people who had already given so much in service to their country.  …

Birds are chirping, flowers are blooming, and the days are getting warmer and brighter. Spring is here and it brings a wealth of fresh produce, with two standout stars: spinach and strawberries. Spinach is a versatile, leafy green that is delicious raw or cooked and is a source of iron, folate and vitamin K. These…

Dr. Bianka Eperjesiova, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SGVHS) director of Interventional Pulmonology (IP), and her dedicated team are making significant strides in the field of interventional pulmonology by educating fellows on transformative techniques that greatly impact Veteran care. Eperjesiova is recognized nationally for her outstanding contributions, particularly known for leading the largest IP…

Whether he’s picking up prescriptions and groceries for his neighbors or working at Goodwill, Navy Veteran Philip Lord is happiest when he can be of service. That’s why Lord, who was on the verge of homelessness just a few years ago, is dedicating his second act to helping others. The son of an Air Force…

For many Veterans, the challenges that come with debilitating injuries or illnesses make it difficult to perform tasks that most people take for granted. The ability to hold a pencil, apply makeup, play a video game or even feed oneself can feel like a nearly insurmountable task. Occupational therapists work with Veterans to overcome these…