Author: admin

Posted on

Idaho Veterans Outreach Roadshow

VSO Outreach Roadshow Flyer

Idaho Division of Veterans Services and Boise VA Medical Center Outreach Roadshow – October 7-10, 2024

Join the Idaho Veterans Outreach Roadshow – October 7-10, 2024

The Idaho Division of Veterans Services and the Boise VA Medical Center are hitting the road for an exciting Outreach Roadshow! From October 7-10, 2024, veterans, family members, and community members in Arco, Mackay, Salmon, and Challis will have the opportunity to meet with experts and get valuable information on a range of veteran services.

This is a fantastic chance to learn about benefits, filing claims, community resources, and to get updates on the PACT Act, COMPACT Act, and important suicide prevention resources.

Roadshow Schedule:

  • Monday, October 7, 2024
    Location: Butte County Business Center, 159 N Idaho St, Arco
    Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
    Evening Location: American Legion Post 16, 406 S. Main, Mackay
    Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
  • Tuesday, October 8, 2024
    Location: Nine Peaks for Coffee Hour, 503 Custer St, Mackay
    Time: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Wednesday, October 9, 2024
    Location: Salmon River Coffee Shop, 604 Main St, Salmon
    Time: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Thursday, October 10, 2024
    Location: Legion Hall, 221 E. Main, Challis
    Time: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Meet the Experts:

This Outreach Roadshow will include personnel from various agencies who are specialists in different areas of veteran services. This is your opportunity to ask questions, learn about the resources available to you, and connect with professionals who are ready to help.

  • Paul Burgin & Emberly Bertasso – State Service Officers from the Pocatello Office of Veterans Advocacy
  • Nikole Watkins – Boise VAMC PACT ACT Specialist
  • Tacy McCoy – Boise VAMC COMPACT ACT Specialist
  • Kate Pape – Boise VAMC Suicide Awareness & Prevention Specialist
  • Mitzi Cheldelin – Idaho Division of Veterans Community Resource Coordinator

Whether you are a veteran, a family member, or a community member who supports veterans, this is a great opportunity to learn more about the services and resources available to veterans in Idaho.

Why Attend?

This event is perfect for:

  • Veterans looking for help with filing claims and understanding their benefits.
  • Families and caretakers seeking resources to support their loved ones.
  • Community members who want to learn more about how they can support local veterans.

By attending this roadshow, you’ll receive information tailored specifically for the veteran community, including updates on mental health resources, suicide prevention, and information on navigating the PACT Act and COMPACT Act.

Learn More:

For more details, contact Mitzi Cheldelin at mitzi.cheldelin@veterans.idaho.gov or call (208) 244-3873 to schedule time with a Veteran Service Officer (VSO).

This Veterans Outreach Roadshow is your opportunity to meet the folks who work hard for you, offering valuable insights and assistance. We hope to see you at one of the stops!

#VeteransSupport #IdahoVeterans #VeteransRoadshow #PACTAct #COMPACTAct #VeteranBenefits

4o
Posted on

Military Women’s Group Spokane Vet Center

Join the Military Women’s Group at Spokane Vet Center – A Safe Space for Support and Camaraderie

Military Women’s Group Now Available at Spokane Vet Center

Attention all women combat veterans, active duty members, guard/reserve members, and Military Sexual Trauma Survivors! The Spokane Vet Center has launched a new Military Women’s Group to offer support, camaraderie, and a safe space to connect with others who share similar experiences.

This group meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of every month, starting at 4:00 PM at the Spokane Vet Center located at 13109 East Mirabeau Parkway, Spokane Valley, WA. Although the first meeting took place on October 3, 2024, it’s never too late to join! Whether you’re dealing with daily stressors, mental health struggles, or just seeking community, this group is for you.

Meeting Schedule:

  • When: 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month
  • Time: 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
  • Where: Spokane Vet Center, 13109 East Mirabeau Parkway, Spokane Valley, WA 99216

What to Expect:

The Military Women’s Group is designed to provide a supportive and welcoming environment where women in the military community can share their experiences, build friendships, and navigate life’s challenges together. The group is led by Marissa Webb, LICSW, a US Navy Veteran, who brings both professional expertise and firsthand military experience to the sessions.

Eligibility:

This group is open to:

  • Combat Veterans (with a campaign medal on DD Form 214) from all eras.
  • Military Sexual Trauma Survivors.

If you haven’t already completed an intake assessment at the Spokane Vet Center, you will need to do so to join the group. Contact 509-444-8387 to make an appointment.

Why Join the Military Women’s Group?

  • Safe and Supportive Environment: This group is a space where you can share your experiences without judgment and find understanding from others who’ve faced similar challenges.
  • Build Camaraderie: Form lasting friendships with other women who have served, and share advice, encouragement, and support.
  • Professional Guidance: The group is facilitated by a licensed social worker and veteran who understands both the mental health challenges and the military experience.

Whether you’re seeking support for trauma, daily life stress, or mental health struggles, the Military Women’s Group offers a compassionate and understanding community where you can heal and grow.

H

Posted on

2024-lewis-clark-veterans-parade

Veterans Parade

Join the 2024 Lewis-Clark Valley Veterans Parade – Honoring Women Veterans

Celebrate Veterans at the 2024 Lewis-Clark Valley Veterans Parade!

Mark your calendars! The annual Lewis-Clark Valley Veterans Parade will take place on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 11:11 AM on Main Street in Lewiston, Idaho. This year’s theme is “Honoring Women Veterans”, and the event promises to be an incredible celebration of our nation’s heroes.

Organized by the LC Valley Veterans Council, the parade invites everyone to honor veterans from all branches of service, with a special focus on the contributions of women in the military. Whether you’re a spectator or a participant, this event is a great way to show your support for our veterans.

Parade Details:

  • Date: Saturday, November 9, 2024
  • Time: 11:11 AM
  • Location: Main Street, Lewiston, ID
  • Theme: Honoring Women Veterans

This year’s parade will feature veterans groups, marching bands, drill teams, equestrian groups, and much more. It’s an event the whole community can enjoy while paying tribute to the brave women and men who have served in the armed forces.

How to Participate:

If you or your group would like to be part of this year’s parade rather than just spectating, the LC Valley Veterans Council is currently accepting applications for participants. Whether you’re a veterans group, band, equestrian team, or simply an individual wishing to join in the celebration, you’re welcome to apply!

  • Application Deadline: November 1, 2024
  • Submit Applications: Email your applications to LCVeteransParade@gmail.com or mail them to Veteran’s Parade Coordinator, 1104 Warner Ave, Lewiston, ID 83501.

For more information and to download the application forms, visit the official website: LCValleyVeteransCouncil.org​​.

Parade Line-Up and Safety Information:

  • Line-Up Time: Participants should arrive for line-up between 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM.
  • Line-Up Location: Snake River Avenue (Note: Snake River Avenue will only be open for one-way traffic).
  • Safety: Parade organizers emphasize the importance of safety during the event. No hot-rodding or unsafe behaviors are allowed, and parents are encouraged to accompany children under the age of 18.
  • Important Reminders: There is no smoking, alcohol, or profanity permitted during the parade.

For equestrian participants, parking is available at the Les Schwab and Lewiston Community Center lots. Don’t forget to bring your own pooper scoopers and ensure cleanup after your horses​.

Why Attend?

The 2024 Lewis-Clark Valley Veterans Parade is more than just an event—it’s a time to come together as a community and show gratitude for the sacrifices made by our veterans. This year’s special focus on honoring women veterans makes it even more significant, as we highlight the vital contributions of women in the military.

Whether you’re there to cheer on the veterans or march proudly in the parade, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

Join Us!

Come out to Main Street, Lewiston on November 9, 2024, at 11:11 AM to celebrate, honor, and show appreciation for our veterans. Let’s make this parade a day to remember, filled with pride, unity, and respect for those who have served our country.

For more information, visit the LC Valley Veterans Council website at LCValleyVeteransCouncil.org, or reach out via email at LCVeteransParade@gmail.com.

Don’t forget: Participant applications are due by November 1, 2024!

#SupportOurVeterans #WomenVeterans #VeteransParade #LewistonID #LCValleyVeteransCouncil

Posted on

free-drive-through-flu-shots-veterans-twin-falls-2024

CBOC Twin Falls Flu Clinic

Free Drive-Through Flu Shots for Veterans at Twin Falls CBOC – October 10-11, 2024

Get Your Free Flu Shot at Twin Falls CBOC Drive-Through Clinic

Attention all veterans! It’s that time of year again, and the Twin Falls VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) is offering free flu shots for veterans through a convenient drive-through clinic. Protect yourself this flu season without even getting out of your car!

Here’s what you need to know:

Event Details:

  • Dates: Thursday, October 10, 2024, and Friday, October 11, 2024
  • Time: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
  • Location: Twin Falls CBOC, 260 2nd Ave E, Twin Falls, ID
  • Eligibility: This service is FREE for all veterans with a valid VA ID card.

Veterans are encouraged to wear short sleeves for easy access to the arm and to have their VA ID card ready when they arrive. The best part? You won’t even need to leave your vehicle!

Why Get a Flu Shot?

Flu season is unpredictable, but getting vaccinated can help protect you and those around you from serious illness. Flu vaccines are especially important for veterans, many of whom may have underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems. The Twin Falls CBOC is making it easier than ever to stay protected this year by offering this convenient, contactless option.

How to Participate in the Drive-Through Clinic:

  1. Arrive at the Twin Falls CBOC: Simply drive up to the clinic on October 10 or 11 between 8:30 AM and 3:30 PM.
  2. Stay in Your Car: No need to park or go inside. You’ll receive your flu shot without leaving your vehicle.
  3. Wear Short Sleeves: To make the process quick and easy, be sure to wear short sleeves so that the staff can administer the vaccine quickly.
  4. Have Your VA ID Ready: Ensure you have your VA identification card on hand to confirm eligibility.

Benefits of the Drive-Through Flu Shot Clinic

This event is designed to be quick, convenient, and safe. You’ll avoid the hassle of scheduling an appointment or waiting in a crowded clinic, and the drive-through setup allows for minimal contact—keeping both you and healthcare workers safe. Plus, getting your flu shot now can help reduce your risk of getting sick during the busy holiday season.

Protect Yourself This Flu Season

By getting your flu shot at the Twin Falls CBOC drive-through clinic, you’re doing your part to stay healthy and keep your community safe. Veterans play a crucial role in our country’s strength, and staying healthy ensures you can continue to lead and support your family and loved ones.

Don’t miss out! Head to the Twin Falls CBOC on October 10th or 11th and get your free flu shot quickly and safely.

For more information, visit the Twin Falls CBOC or contact the clinic directly.

 

Posted on

post-falls-fall-fepost-falls-fall-festival-military-families-2024stival-military-families-2024

Fall Festival in Post Falls, Id

Join the Post Falls Fall Festival for Military, Retiree, and Veteran Families – October 18, 2024

Don’t Miss the Post Falls Fall Festival for Military, Retiree, and Veteran Families!

Looking for a fun, family-friendly event this October? The Idaho National Guard’s J9 Service Member & Family Support Team invites all military, retiree, and veteran families to their Post Falls Fall Festival on October 18, 2024, at the Post Falls Armory. This event promises to be packed with activities, fun, and festive fall celebrations for the entire family.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this exciting community event.

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday, October 18, 2024
  • Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Location: Post Falls Armory, 5453 E Seltice Way, Post Falls, ID
  • Who Can Attend: Open to all military, retiree, and veteran families
  • Contact Information: For more information, contact Brandi Stordahl at 208-608-3895

What to Expect:

The Post Falls Fall Festival is the perfect opportunity to enjoy an evening of carnival-style fun and connect with the local military community. This event is designed to bring military, retiree, and veteran families together in a celebration of fall and family with a host of activities for all ages.

  • Carnival Fun: There will be plenty of games and activities that the whole family can enjoy, perfect for keeping the kids entertained.
  • Costumes Encouraged: Get into the fall spirit and bring your best costume! Whether you’re a superhero, a spooky ghost, or a fall-themed character, everyone is encouraged to dress up and join the fun.
  • Community Resources: Learn more about the services and resources available to military families in the Post Falls community.

Why Attend the Post Falls Fall Festival?

1. Family-Friendly Fun: With activities and games for all ages, this event is a great way to spend quality time with your family. Whether you’re playing carnival games, enjoying tasty treats, or exploring local resources, there’s something for everyone.

2. Connect with Your Community: The festival is an excellent opportunity for military, retiree, and veteran families to connect with one another and the broader community. Meet new friends, share stories, and build stronger bonds with fellow military families.

3. Celebrate the Season: October is the perfect time to celebrate fall! The crisp air, colorful leaves, and festive decorations will make this event a memorable experience for the whole family. And, of course, wearing costumes only adds to the fun!

4. Access to Valuable Resources: Learn about the resources and support available for military families in the Post Falls area. From family support programs to veteran services, there will be plenty of information available to help you and your family thrive.

Plan Your Visit:

The Post Falls Fall Festival is a fantastic way to enjoy a fun-filled evening while connecting with your community. Mark your calendar for October 18, 2024, and bring your family out for a night of carnival games, costumes, and community engagement.

For more information, contact Brandi Stordahl at 208-608-3895.

Don’t miss out on this exciting event for military, retiree, and veteran families in Post Falls. Whether you’re looking for a fun evening of fall festivities or a chance to connect with local community members, the Post Falls Fall Festival is the place to be!

Posted on

Annual Fall Festival in Lewiston

Fall Festival Lewiston

Annual Fall Festival in Lewiston for Military, Retiree, and Veteran Families – Join the Fun!

The Idaho National Guard’s J9 Service Member & Family Support Team is excited to announce the return of their Annual Fall Festival in Lewiston! This year’s event will take place on Friday, October 25th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Lewiston Armory.

This family-friendly event is open to all military, retiree, and veteran families, providing a great opportunity to connect with others in the community while enjoying a night full of fun and festive activities.

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday, October 25, 2024
  • Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Location: Lewiston Armory, 2707 16th Ave, Lewiston, ID
  • Open to: All military, retiree, and veteran families
  • Contact: For more information, call 208-608-8185 or email keesha.l.west.nfg@army.mil

What to Expect:

This year’s Fall Festival promises to be an unforgettable evening, packed with activities and entertainment for everyone to enjoy. Here’s what you can look forward to:

  • Candy, Games, and Food: Bring your own candy basket for trick-or-treating, and enjoy the wide selection of snacks and sweets available at the festival.
  • Costumes Encouraged: Get into the spirit of the season by dressing up in your favorite costume! This is a fun way for kids and adults alike to celebrate Halloween early.
  • Music & Community Engagement: Enjoy live music, dance, and opportunities to connect with others in the community.
  • Family Resources: Learn more about community support and resources available for military families, veterans, and retirees.

The event is aimed at bringing together the military community in a supportive and fun environment where families can relax, engage, and celebrate the season together.

Why Attend?

The annual Fall Festival is a beloved tradition, offering a welcoming space for military, veteran, and retiree families to come together. Whether you’re looking for a fun evening out with the family or a way to connect with others in the local military community, this event has something for everyone. Plus, with the mix of games, food, and music, it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Don’t Forget:

  • Bring your own candy basket for trick-or-treating.
  • Costumes are highly encouraged to add to the festive atmosphere!

We can’t wait to see you there! Make sure to mark your calendars for Friday, October 25th and bring your family to the Lewiston Armory for a night of fun, community, and festive fall activities. For more information, feel free to contact the event coordinators at 208-608-8185 or keesha.l.west.nfg@army.mil.

Get ready to celebrate the season with your fellow military families and enjoy an evening filled with laughter and connection!

Posted on

Marine Corps Band tour 2024

Presidents Own Poster-UT-ID Oct 21-25

“The President’s Own” United States Marine Band is Coming to Idaho and Utah – Reserve Your FREE Tickets Today!

The President’s Own United States Marine Band is heading to Utah and Idaho in October 2024, and this is your chance to witness a world-class musical performance—for free! The Marine Corps Band, known for its distinguished history and powerful performances, will be touring various locations, with concerts scheduled in Ogden, Provo, Rexburg, Pocatello, and Boise.

Mark your calendars because this opportunity doesn’t come around often, and tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting event.

Utah and Idaho Tour Dates for The President’s Own United States Marine Band:

  • Monday, October 21: Weber State Performing Arts Auditorium, Ogden, UT
  • Tuesday, October 22: BYU Concert Hall, Provo, UT
  • Wednesday, October 23: BYU Idaho Center, Rexburg, ID
  • Thursday, October 24: Idaho State University Concert Hall, Pocatello, ID
  • Friday, October 25: Capital High School Auditorium, Boise, ID

All concerts start at 7:30 PM.

The President’s Own Marine Band has a legacy stretching back to 1798, making it the oldest continuously active professional musical organization in the United States. The band’s mission is to provide music for the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps. They’ve played at countless state functions, official ceremonies, and events, and now, they’re bringing that same level of excellence to audiences in Utah and Idaho.

How to Get Tickets

Tickets are free, but you need to reserve them online. Don’t wait too long to get your tickets—reservations open one month prior to each performance. If tickets sell out, don’t worry. Unused seats will be available at the door on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s still worth attending even if you miss out on the online reservation.

You can reserve your free tickets at the following link:
👉 https://www.marineband.marines.mil/Tour/

Why Attend?

Attending a performance by The President’s Own United States Marine Band is an unforgettable experience for music lovers of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of military bands or just love live music, you’ll appreciate the precision, emotion, and artistry the Marine Band brings to every performance. Expect a range of music, from patriotic tunes to classical masterpieces, all played with the highest level of skill.

Boise Stop on October 25: For those in Boise, this is a particularly exciting opportunity. The Marine Band will be performing at the Capital High School Auditorium, which offers a more intimate venue to enjoy this world-renowned band’s performance.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never experienced the majesty and musical talent of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, now’s your chance. With free tickets and performances spread across several cities, there’s no reason to miss out. Make sure you reserve your seats early to secure a spot, and enjoy an evening of exceptional music performed by some of the nation’s finest musicians.

Reserve your tickets now: https://www.marineband.marines.mil/Tour/

 

Posted on

Video Games as a Lifeline: Supporting Veteran Mental Health

How Video Games Are Becoming a Lifeline for Veterans’ Mental Health

For years, video games have been a source of entertainment, but for many veterans, they are becoming much more—a vital tool for mental health support. While video games often face scrutiny for their potential negative effects, research is now shining a light on their unexpected benefits, especially within the veteran community.

Dr. Michelle Colder Carras, a public health expert at Johns Hopkins University, has been studying how online gaming communities can provide critical mental health support to veterans. Her research reveals how veterans are using video games not just to escape their troubles, but also to build meaningful peer support networks that help them through some of life’s toughest moments​.

How Video Games Support Veterans’ Mental Health

For veterans, adjusting to civilian life can be challenging. Many deal with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health struggles. Dr. Carras’ research points to the fact that online communities formed around video games can offer a unique space for veterans to connect with others who share similar experiences.

One example is Stack Up, an organization founded by U.S. Army Captain Stephen Machuga. After returning from service in Iraq, Machuga found solace in video games, which helped distract him from the anxiety he was feeling. He founded Stack Up to bring the benefits of gaming to other veterans, providing them with a sense of community and purpose​.

The Stack Up Overwatch Program (StOP): A Peer-Driven Solution

What started as a way to share the joy of gaming evolved into a much-needed mental health intervention. In 2018, members of Stack Up launched the Stack Up Overwatch Program (StOP), a peer-based crisis support program for veterans and active-duty military members. StOP provides 24/7 mental health and crisis intervention services, facilitated entirely by trained peers​.

The volunteers—many of whom have their own experiences with PTSD, depression, or anxiety—undergo nearly 40 hours of training to help their peers. These peer supporters offer a listening ear, help veterans access traditional mental health care, and provide crucial crisis counseling. The StOP program has been instrumental in helping veterans feel less alone during moments of distress​.

Research Shows the Effectiveness of Gaming Communities

Dr. Carras and her team conducted an in-depth evaluation of the StOP program, analyzing more than 180,000 chat messages and surveys. Their findings? Gaming communities like Stack Up provide veterans with meaningful, anonymous, and accessible peer support. Veterans who participated in StOP reported reduced anxiety, improved ability to cope, and relief from the symptoms that brought them to the platform in the first place​.

In fact, most participants received responses to their posts within five minutes, offering immediate support during moments of crisis. These online interactions not only helped veterans in need but also benefited the volunteers themselves, who found support and camaraderie among their peers​https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2024/supporting-veteran-mental-health-through-video-games

Moving Forward: Expanding the Benefits of Gaming for Mental Health

Dr. Carras believes that the success of the StOP program offers valuable insights for the future of mental health support. By leveraging peer-based interventions, online communities can help bridge the gap in mental health care, especially for veterans who may be reluctant to seek traditional therapy.

As gaming continues to evolve, so does its potential for fostering mental health support. Dr. Carras and her colleagues are now working with developers like Bohemia Interactive Studio, creators of the military simulator Arma Reforger, to explore new ways to integrate mental health awareness into gaming events​.

Conclusion: The Unexpected Power of Video Games

What started as a hobby has turned into a lifeline for many veterans. Through gaming communities like Stack Up, veterans are finding a safe space to share their struggles and get the support they need. The success of programs like StOP demonstrates the potential of video games as a platform for peer-based mental health intervention—an innovation that could reshape how we approach veteran mental health care in the future.

To learn more about the benefits of video games for veteran mental health, visit Johns Hopkins University and explore Dr. Carras’ groundbreaking research​

This blog post is based on research from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, originally published in their article titled Supporting Veteran Mental Health through Video Games​.

 

4o
Posted on

How Veterans Use Art Therapy to Overcome PTSD and Heal

Art as Therapy: A Path to Healing for Veterans

Art has long been known for its therapeutic benefits, and for many veterans, it has become a vital tool in managing both physical and mental health challenges. Veterans like Eer Jolson, a Navy veteran, have found solace and healing in carving and painting. For Eer, art became more than just a hobby—it was a way to cope with the stress and pain of recovery from surgery. As he told KCCI News in Iowa, “I get in a zone, and I forget about everything going on. It really helps me to reduce the pain that I deal with.”

The Power of Art for PTSD and Mental Health

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, about 7% of veterans struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). However, for veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, that number rises to 29%. Veterans with PTSD often deal with extreme anxiety, racing thoughts, and depression.

For these veterans, art offers a way to break through the mental barriers created by trauma. Theresa Johnson, a recreational therapist, works with veterans using art as a tool for self-expression and healing. She explains that completing art projects, even something as simple as a painting or carving, gives veterans a sense of accomplishment and boosts their self-esteem.

A Veteran’s Testimony: Art as a Coping Mechanism

Veteran Wendy Cornelius is another example of someone who has benefited from art therapy. She shares how art helps her cope with anxiety and depression. “When I start to feel that, I just get into doodling or painting, and pretty soon, two hours have passed. I don’t have that burning feeling in the pit of my stomach, and my mind quits racing.” For Wendy, art offers not only an escape but also a way to manage her emotions and calm her mind.


The Broader Impact of Art Therapy

Art is subjective, and its beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. For these veterans, however, the real beauty lies in the process of creation and the sense of peace that comes with it. Veterans who engage in art therapy often find that it helps them work through their pain—whether it’s physical, mental, or emotional.

By using art, veterans are reclaiming their sense of self, healing from trauma, and learning new ways to cope with the challenges they face. Programs that incorporate art therapy offer a valuable outlet for veterans struggling with PTSD, anxiety, and depression, allowing them to express their emotions in a non-verbal way that can be deeply healing.

Conclusion: Finding Healing Through Creativity

The journey of recovery is different for every veteran, but art has proven to be a powerful tool in that process. Whether it’s carving, painting, or doodling, veterans like Eer and Wendy are finding new ways to manage their mental health and regain a sense of control over their lives. As they create, they heal.

For more information on how art therapy is helping veterans or to watch the full story, check out the Inside Edition Digital video.

Posted on

VA to Update Disability Benefits Regulations for Toxic-Exposed Veterans, Following Push from Senator Tester

VA to Update Disability Benefits for Toxic-Exposed Veterans After Senator Tester’s Push

Veterans affected by toxic exposure are finally getting closer to receiving the benefits they deserve, thanks to new changes announced by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA is set to update outdated regulations for veterans suffering from Constrictive Bronchiolitis (CB), a condition often caused by exposure to toxic burn pits during military service. This move comes after strong advocacy from Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Jon Tester, who has been pushing for reforms to the way the VA handles disability benefits for toxic-exposed veterans.

Why This Change Matters

For years, veterans with Constrictive Bronchiolitis have struggled to receive adequate compensation due to the VA’s outdated Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD). Without a specific diagnostic code for CB, the VA has been using codes for similar conditions, which often result in veterans receiving lower disability ratings than they should. This has prevented many veterans from accessing the full benefits they earned through their service.

Jon Tester has been at the forefront of addressing these issues, leading efforts in Congress to ensure that toxic-exposed veterans receive timely and appropriate benefits. His push for VA reforms gained momentum with the passage of the PACT Act, which expanded benefits for veterans affected by toxic exposures, including burn pits.

What the New Changes Include

Under the new regulations, the VA will:

  • Update the VASRD to include specific criteria for evaluating Constrictive Bronchiolitis, ensuring that veterans receive an accurate disability rating based on the severity of their condition.
  • Streamline the claims process for veterans suffering from toxic exposure-related illnesses, making it easier for them to receive benefits.

This change will not only provide more accurate ratings for veterans suffering from CB but also ensure faster and more effective claims processing.

Tester’s Advocacy for Veterans

Senator Tester has been a tireless advocate for veterans, especially those suffering from toxic exposure. He has repeatedly called on the VA to fix its outdated regulations and ensure that the PACT Act is fully implemented. The PACT Act, signed into law in 2022, expanded the list of conditions presumed to be caused by toxic exposure, providing critical health care and benefits to Post-9/11 combat veterans.

Tester’s efforts are a major step forward in the fight to secure proper care and compensation for the thousands of veterans who have been affected by toxic exposure during their service.

What’s Next for Veterans?

Veterans affected by Constrictive Bronchiolitis and other toxic exposure-related conditions should stay informed about these regulatory updates. The VA is expected to release further details on how the changes will affect the disability rating process in the coming months.

Veterans seeking more information on how this may impact their benefits can visit the VA website or contact their local VA representative for guidance on filing claims or updating existing claims.