College students: Consider a mental health career at VA

For young adults (or even as returning students), college is about making a commitment to better yourself and, in the process, searching for your true purpose. We understand that search, because at VA, we’ve already found a noble mission that gives our work meaning. For our mental health professionals, the mission begins by building on…

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Innovative technology enables surgeons to save lives

Surgeons at Michael E. DeBakey VA recently became among the first in the country to perform an innovative new procedure using a groundbreaking device for treating complex aortic aneurysms.   Last month, Houston VA vascular surgeons Drs. Erin Greenleaf and Natasha Hansraj used newly FDA-approved Gore EXCLUDER Thoracoabdominal Branch Endoprosthesis (TAMBE), an innovative new device…

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Live Whole Health #251: Making space for breath

Someone once told me that she had a best friend who came into this world on the exact same day, month and year as her. She said this best friend will also leave this world on the exact same day, month and year as her. In between, they spend every single moment together. This best…

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Veteran makes it to the Golden Age Games

The first thing on her mind after the accident was the Golden Age Games. Ret. Air Force Reserve Col. Edna Higa did not see the car before it hit her. She was going through a green light paying attention to the road ahead. The next moment there were people all around her and emergency crews…

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Helping Veterans combat food insecurity

VA and Food is Medicine Coalition (FIMC) are partnering to improve access to medically tailored meals and groceries for Veterans, addressing critical food insecurity linked to increased risks of depression and suicidal ideation. This partnership aligns with VA’s goal to provide accessible benefits and services that meet the unique needs of Veterans and supports the…

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Lifesaving housing programs put Veteran on the path to a permanent home

Jay Walker joined the military to outrun drug dealers and a broken heart. While that may sound like the start of a compelling novel, it’s the true story of Walker’s life. He never suspected that the benefits he received through this decision would be lifesaving, helping him overcome homelessness, health issues and a substance use…

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Augusta VA Veteran honors his American Indian heritage

Charles “Little Eagle” Reyes, Army Vietnam Veteran, shared facts about his family lineage during American Indian Heritage month in November. His father is a member of the Kiowa Nation and his mother is a member of the Cheyenne Nation from the Twin River Reservation. Vet Center’s Tim Prendergast and Charles “Little Eagle” Reyes at a…

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VA raises the bar on care for Women Veterans

The Barriers for Women Veterans to VA Health Care 2024 report examines the input of over 7,000 women Veterans and shows that women are happier with VA health care than ever before. This comprehensive study provides crucial insights into your experiences, and it highlights both our successes and areas where we can do better. Key…

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Finding the right words: How keywords can impact your resume

For hiring managers and recruiters, keywords outline the necessary skills and experience they’re looking for in candidates. These are the specific responsibilities, qualifications and expectations associated with a particular role. When the hiring manager or recruiter begins reviewing applicants, they’re going to be looking for those keywords. Using keywords will make sure your resume meets…

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Stay safe this December: Prevent impaired driving and save lives 

December is one of the most festive months of the year with celebrations and holidays bringing joy to many. However, it is also one of the deadliest times on the roads due to impaired driving.  This December, VA is observing National Impaired Driving Prevention Month by highlighting the dangers of impaired driving and promoting safe…

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Have your say: Proposed changes to VA Caregiver Support Program

VA values the contributions of caregivers and Veterans in our community. We’ve recently published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the Federal Register, proposing updates to expand access to the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC). Please note that these changes are not yet in effect, and your feedback is important in shaping…

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Air Force Veteran on living with MS

I had been in the Air Force for a little under four years. Never in my wildest dreams would I have predicted that I would be receiving the news that I had Multiple Sclerosis (MS), but that is exactly what happened. My initial MS symptom was mild. I had a little weakness on one side,…

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