BLACK-OWNED BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Angels Are Real!

By Robin A. Williams Lude Ricard, Founder/Operator: Sunny Side Veterans Consulting “Proudly serving those who serve”

She is “THE VA Whisperer” What Lude Ricard does for Vets by easing their fears, and taking a personal approach, sets their minds at ease. The Vets she helps say they feel like she can be trusted, and have someone that is in their corner that really cares about them. It is this reason Lude’s friend calls her, “The VA Whisper”.

Lude Ricard, originally from Caribbean Islands, now resides at University Town Center/La Jolla and has lived there just over 7 years. Mrs. Ricard moved here to California to work in the Healthcare Industry specifically. She is a Board-certified CA Licensed physical therapist, a Corrective exercise specialist and registered Yoga instructor. Lude Ricard founded Sunnyside Physical therapy & Wellness in 2010 and helped active-duty, veterans, and their families manage and treat their chronic musculoskeletal impairments via a holistic therapeutic approach.

In 2020, Lude founded Sunnyside Veterans Consulting. It is a local medical consulting firm that helps veterans with their VA disability claims. They are able to do much of this work remotely via Telehealth, however he does have a physical location in La Jolla, Ca. Lude says the best reason to live in La Jolla is because she enjoys the pristine coastal city that is both incredibly beautiful and safe. The VA headquarters is also located in La Jolla, making it very convenient for her clients.

Lude was inspired by her parent’s kindness and generosity that they shared with the community. Growing up, she knew that in a place where there was so much poverty that she was blessed and fortunate to have such a loving family that supported her. Her upbringing had the perfect ingredients for her to become someone completely suited for doing this important work.

Why did you feel the need to create Sunnyside Veterans Consulting?

“When I began my work, I discovered how many Vet associated organizations there were, but realized early on that not all of them were more than lip service. By creating Sunnyside Consulting, I provide reliable services for Vets and their families that they can count on.”

How do you continue doing this type of work, when the mental toll that this type of work creates naturally can be so heavy?

“I have come to love all the Veterans I work with. Once I build a relationship of trust, then to- gether, we can overcome many obstacles, and get them the VA Disability rating they have earned and deserve. I write VA Nexus Letters to support the Veterans, and it does help get what they are owed.” Lude adds, “Also to get the VA disability ratings they deserve.”

With all the different groups of people in need, why did you choose to work with Veterans?

“I could not understand what led me to this work with vets, but once I began, I fell in love with this population. I feel the Veteran community is very deserving of our help and respect.”

Lude Ricard decided to give Vets not only a service that is so valuable, but she does this with compassion and empathy. Her company is an action-based resource. Sunnyside Veterans Consulting is proving success for veterans and their families throughout San Diego.

Why is it important for you and others to support local businesses?

“I believe Veterans need our support and undying gratitude for their sacrifice. They are still an underserved population with a high suicide rate and homelessness. They need our Help and support.”

Mrs. Ricard, as someone who works so much, you must need some relaxing time,

what do you do for fun, and where?

“There are some podcasts that I like to listen to, motivational and business podcasts. Such as; ‘’Think and Grow Rich, and Millionaire real estate agents.” “I enjoy Sushi and Mediterranean foods. Some of my favorites are poke 1 ½ at La Jolla Village. I also enjoy dining at Manhattan Restaurant and Lounge in La Jolla, Mille Fleurs in RSF, and Tom Ham lighthouse.”

What advice do you have for visitors? “Be Courteous, enjoy the scenery, and support local businesses.”

Where do you do food shopping?

“Trader Joe’s Ralph, Vons, and Wholefoods” Favorite influential books/movies?

“Books: Never Split the difference, The Millionaire Next door, Think & Grow Rich”

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

“No one owes you anything”, “Work smarter not harder”. “Focus on being of service to people and success will follow”

If you weren’t in your current occupation –what would you be?

“A writer or motivational speaker.”

Please describe your ideal local weekend? “Relaxing on the beach resort somewhere in Del Mar or Cardiff followed by brunch at the seaside, and catching a live band performance.”