U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs CWV – News Update

Barb Waters received a warm welcome as she arrived in Marysville June 9. Greeted by Columbus Center for Development and Civic Engagement staff and a host of local supporters, Waters’ visit marked a significant moment in her cross-country cycling journey to educate the public about VA services and to raise funds to support Veterans in need. Her journey began in early May and will see her and 27 other riders traverse 3,296 miles across 14 states. [From VA News]

Every June, Kansas City VA hosts its Annual Salute to Women Veterans. On June 8, over 100 women Veterans joined for a morning of recognition. In its seventh year, the Salute to Women Veterans continues to grow. Leading the annual event is Women’s Program Manager Andrea Simpson, an Army Veteran who has listened to the voices of her fellow Veterans to honor and advance women’s health care. [From VA News]

Today you’ll find Army Veteran Jocelyn Payton living in a quiet North Carolina apartment with her emotional support dog Auggie, a mixed breed who’s well-loved and well-fed by her neighbors. Rewind 14 years and you’d have found Payton in a more unstable living situation. When her mother died in 2010, she was too young to take over her apartment in a senior community. [From VA News]

This month’s Center for Women Veterans Book Corner author is Marine Corps Veteran Sarah B. Gray, who served as an administration clerk from 2001-2006. She wrote “Millie the Moose Blurts,” which uses humor and animals to teach children strategies to avoid blurting. [From VA News]

Women are the fastest-growing group of Veterans in the United States. There are more than 600,000 women registered for VA health services and women make up 30% of all new VA patients. That’s why Orlando VA is committed to providing virtual resources and classes to women Veterans to ensure they feel supported. The virtual component ensures that Veterans who live far away or are juggling various responsibilities can still access their health care. [From VA News]

Women Veterans deserve the best prosthetic and sensory aids designed to fit their lifestyle and body based on their unique health care needs. VA offers comprehensive and advanced prosthetic devices, sensory aids and rehabilitation services. We know that size and appearance matter. We’re further enhancing options so you can choose items that meet your personal style and body type. [From VA News]

“I have been thinking a lot about suicide,” said the Veteran, not making much eye contact. Unlike in past discussions, on this day he had a plan and access to lethal means. He had dealt with distress and thoughts of suicide most of his life—a life that included hiding that he was gay and coping with childhood sexual abuse and military sexual trauma. [From VA News]