Photo By Marcy Sanchez | Gail Graham, the acting director of the El Paso Department of Veterans Affairs Health...... read more read more
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FORT BLISS, Texas - Veteran patients at William Beaumont Army Medical Center received a surprise visit and gift from the acting director of the El Paso Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Gail Graham, as part of National Salute to Veteran Patients week, Feb. 11.
“National Salute to Veteran Patients is a salute to veteran patients and hospitalized veterans,” said Graham, a native of Des Moines, Iowa. “It’s a reminder of their service to our country and each of us, and a small way to give back.”
The annual salute is celebrated on the week of Feb. 14 and invites communities to volunteer for special events such as valentine distributions, photo opportunities and even free concerts for veterans and their families in select cities.
Graham was accompanied by members of Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America, Maurice Kubby Post No. 749, and presented hospitalized veterans with handmade blankets, flowers and pins.
“The ladies of our post made blankets for the veterans,” said Scott Stevens, a volunteer for National Salute to Veteran Patients week and commander of Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America, Maurice Kubby Post No. 749. “My wife and neighbors sent me gift packages during Desert Storm. It really lightened up my day and lifted my spirits. That’s what I hope we did today.”
The VA estimates there are over 21 million veterans in the U.S. today, many of whom were involved in some of our nation’s longest battles.
“Any way to honor veterans is always important to me,” said Graham, whose own family consists of veterans. “It’s very personal. I hope people would do the same for my father and grandfather.”
“I know what it’s like to be living out in the dirt, feeling unappreciated and alone,” said Stevens, who served in the Army for 30 years. “It’s nice to know that somebody is there to support you.”
Studies show the support of family and friends during complications has been linked to positive emotional and physical effects on patients. National Salute to Veteran Patients week aims at increasing community involvement and awareness in veterans’ health issues.
“I hope they know there are others in addition to their families that care about them,” said Graham. “I wish them a speedy recovery and good health.”
According to the VA, more than 98,000 Veterans of the U.S. armed services are cared for every day in VA medical centers, outpatient clinics, domiciliary, and nursing homes. WBAMC provides inpatient services to veterans in West Texas and Southeast New Mexico.
“We’re so fortunate here in El Paso. Between the VA, WBAMC and the community we can provide them a full-range of healthcare services,” said Graham. “We offer the best in healthcare in a combined, collegial way. Our veterans deserve the best.”
| Date Taken: | 02.16.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 02.16.2016 18:27 |
| Story ID: | 188964 |
| Location: | FORT BLISS, TEXAS, US |
| Hometown: | DES MOINES, IOWA, US |
| Web Views: | 121 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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