Veterans' Healthy Living, Summer 2012
Dear Veterans
A Message from the Network Director
Michael F. Mayo-Smith, M.D., M.P.H.
Network Director
Have you considered that there are three holidays that recognize and honor Veterans?
They are Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Veterans Day. Our leaders understood the sacrifices made for our freedoms and set aside days to acknowledge and give honor to you, our nation’s service men and women.
Page 3 has an inspiring story about the new and improved “ALS Redesign System of Care” at the Providence VAMC for patients diagnosed with ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease. Many Veterans and VA staff members were involved in streamlining the care and equipment process at this facility. We are here for you every step of the way!
The feature story for this issue of Veterans' Healthy Living focuses on the Memorial Wall at the Manchester VAMC. The story behind its design is a humbling one and gives proper attention to some of those who have gone before us in service and sacrifice to our nation. I encourage you to read “A Place of Healing and Remembrance” on page 4.
At the Bedford VA, a new program called “Safe Haven” was recently established to ensure that Veterans who have fallen on hard times will not “fall through the cracks” of VA housing programs. You’ll find that story on page 6.
Finally, on page 7 you can read about the research being performed and the strides made on Palliative Care at White River Junction VAMC and how they are partnering with a wellknown medical school in this effort.
At this mid-year mark, we celebrate our freedom, and we pause to remember our fallen. Thank you for your service. Now let us serve you!
Michael F. Mayo-Smith, M.D., M.P.H.
Network Director
