Veterans Chronicle January 2022

VETERANS CHRONICLE JANUARY 2022

Inclusive care Integrating family caregivers into a veteran’s medical care team improves outcomes STORY ON PAGE 2

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Friday, January 21, 2022

The Spokesman-Review

VETERANS CHRONICLE

Inclusive care improves outcomes for veterans, caregivers

By Anne Adkinson

2020 ELIZABETH DOLE FOUNDATION CAREGIVER FELLOW

Dear fellow caregivers, My caregiving journey began a decade ago shortly after I married my husband, an Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) veteran who began struggling with numerous service-connected disabilities including memory loss, neurological issues and paralysis episodes.

As his health began to decline, I found myself having to step in more and more often to help him navigate his increasing doctors’ appointments and answer providers' complex medical questions because he couldn’t do it on his own anymore.

I didn’t realize I was a caregiver at the time and was just doing what any wife would, by trying everything I could to help figure out what was wrong and find effective treatments.

In the beginning I was often left out of conversations with providers, which led to confusion and frustration for all parties, and poor health outcomes, simply because my husband couldn’t remember everything he needed to share with the provider or the recommended treatment protocols.

The doctor can’t treat something they aren’t aware of, and my husband can’t follow recommendations he can’t remember. Over the past 10 years and countless doctors’ appointments, I’m relieved to see a shift in the culture of care, and I am finally not only being recognized as my husband’s caregiver, but also seen as an ally and part of his care team. This is called inclusive care.

As caregivers, we are the first line of defense. We are in the home and know our veterans better than anyone. I know my husband’s military service and health history. I know all his diagnoses and medications, what treatments he’s tried and what is and is not working. I schedule all his appointments and make sure he keeps

them. I make sure the provider knows what’s going on because if they only ask my husband, all he’ll say is “I’m fine.”

My veteran cares what I think and follows my lead. When a provider and I build a relationship of trust and work as a team, my husband can relax and feel comfortable with the provider, ultimately leading to a better health outcome.

He’s more present and engaging because he doesn’t have to worry about trying to remember every little thing. He knows if he forgets anything I’ll fill in the gaps and know what was recommended and why. He doesn’t need to stress that he’ll forget because he knows his provider and I have his back.

I make sure everyone is on the same page and sees the big picture so we can work together in his best interest.

Meeting new providers is especially difficult for my husband because he has to start at the very beginning each time and is not capable of sharing all the little, yet important details on his own.

Just a few months ago, he met a new VA specialist for a routine check-in. The doctor included me in the conversation and gathered all the background information.

I told him about what we thought was a mundane, yet expensive out-of-pocket treatment my husband had been on for several months that we’d been told by a community provider was perfectly safe.

The Veterans Affairs (VA) doctor became alarmed at the lack of oversight from the community care provider and ordered blood tests. Sure enough, the treatment was causing serious health issues that put my husband’s life in danger if he continued any longer. The provider's simple act of including me gave him the insight to see the big picture and act swiftly to provide proper, lifesaving care for my husband.

The VA, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation (EDF), health care providers and caregivers are committed to making inclusive care the standard across the

“

As caregivers, we are the first line of defense. We are in the home and know our veterans better than anyone. I know my husband’s military service and health history. I know all his diagnoses and medications, what treatments he’s tried and what is and is not working. I schedule all his appointments and make sure he keeps them. I make sure the provider knows what’s going on because if they only ask my husband, all he’ll say is “I’m fine.”

country, in both VA and community medical settings. The Campaign for Inclusive Care (campaignforinclusivecare. elizabethdolefoundation.org/) equips and empowers care providers, allied health professionals and caregivers alike with the tools and resources needed to work as a team to give our veterans the best care experience possible. Our country faces changes and challenges like never before,

which is why we must unite, empower one another, and give our veterans the best inclusive care experience they deserve.

While it’s an honor to serve those who served, at times caregiving can be exhausting, isolating and frustrating, especially when we struggle to take time to care for ourselves and other our loved ones. Please know you aren’t alone.

The amazing staff at the VA Caregiver Support Program and EDF are here for you. I encourage you to participate in the life changing offerings VA has to offer veteran caregivers, especially programs like Whole Health (www.va.gov/ wholehealth/).

EDF’s Hidden Heroes (hiddenheroes. org/) can also connect caregivers with vetted resources and a supportive, diverse caregiver community. Take good care (of yourselves too).

Does this sound like someone you know?

Find help at www.caregiver.va.gov or see the “How Can I Get Help?” section on page 5 of this publication.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

WE BELIEVE IN

A SUPPLEMENT TO THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW

VA FINANCING

JAN. 21, 2022

VETERANS HELP NET Don Walker Bryan Bledsoe MANAGING EDITOR Theresa Tanner ART DIRECTOR Anne Potter DIRECTOR OF SALES Scott Baumbach No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent of the publisher.

Veterans Help Net partners with The Spokesman-Review to publish Veterans Chronicle on the third Friday of every month to increase awareness about veteran issues and to help veterans find hope and help.

The United States S Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers home loans to active military members, reservists, and retirees, as a benefit of service in our nation’s Armed Forces.

To share a veteran story or information about resources for veterans, please contact info@veteranshelpnet.com or visit www.VeteransHelpNet. com.

Many service members are not aware this earned benefit is available to them; many sellers are not aware of the advantages to VA loans in the transaction process.

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IN THIS ISSUE

VETERANS CHRONICLE DIRECTORY

Inclusive care improves outcomes for veterans, caregivers.................2 Hey Veterans, Did You Know?.......................................................................4 How to ask about PTSD...................................................................................5 How Can I Get Help?.........................................................................................5 Spokane Veterans Forum................................................................................6 Afghanistan: Resources available for PTSD...............................................8 Telehealth PTSD study.....................................................................................9 PTSD Coach App...............................................................................................9 ‘Ironwoman’ Navy veteran finds inner strength.......................................10 MGVAMC’s Gary Helms retires.......................................................................11 Hearts of Bronze................................................................................................12

Friday, January 21, 2022

HEALTH SERVICES Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center 4815 N Assembly St Spokane WA, 99205 (509) 434-7000 www.spokane.va.gov BANKING & FINANCE Banner Bank (800) 272-9933 www.bannerbank.com END OF LIFE SERVICES Hennessey Valley Funeral Home 1315 N Pines Rd Spokane Valley, WA 99206 (509) 844-9709 www.henesseyvalley.com

Hospice of Spokane 121 S Arthur St Spokane WA, 99202 (509) 456-0438 www.hospiceofspokane.org FURNITURE

La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries

10205 N Division St. Spokane WA, 99218 (509) 465-4380 www.la-z--boy.com

REAL ESTATE Spokane Association of Realtors 1924 N Ash St Spokane WA, 99205 (509) 326-9222 www.spokanerealtor.com

VETERAN SERVICES Spokane County Veteran Services 1117 N Evergreen Rd Spokane Valley, WA 99216 (509) 477-3690 North Idaho Veteran Services and Benefits Office 120 E. Railroad Ave. Post Falls, ID 83854 (208) 446-1092

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Friday, January 21, 2022

The Spokesman-Review

VETERANS CHRONICLE

HEY VETERANS, DID YOU KNOW … ? … Surviving dependents are eligible for in-state tuition?

On Nov. 30, President Biden signed into law the Col. John M. McHugh Tuition Fairness for Survivors Act of 2021, making surviving dependents eligible for in-state tuition wherever they choose to attend school for terms beginning on or after August 1, 2022. This change to U.S. Code Title 38 allows recipients of benefits under The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program the same protections under the law as beneficiaries currently in receipt of other VA educational programs and supports surviving dependents pursuing their academic goals.

For more details, visit www. benefits.va.gov/gibill/.

… A spouse caregiver of a disabled veteran can receive a monthly benefit?

Aid and Attendance is a benefit paid by Veterans Affairs (VA) to veterans, veteran spouses or surviving spouses. It is paid in addition to a veteran’s basic pension. The benefit may not be paid without eligibility to a VA basic pension. To learn more, visit www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/.

… Mann-Grandstaff VAMC has an orthopedic hand specialist who can help with trigger finger?

Trigger finger is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and a sensation of locking or catching when you bend and straighten your finger. It usually happens in the ring fingers or thumbs but can occur in your other fingers as well.

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Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits provide monthly payments added to the amount of a monthly VA pension for qualified veterans and survivors.

While surgery may seem like the only treatment, there are other options, like cortisone shots. If you are having problems with your hands, ask your primary doctor/provider at the VA to refer you for a consultation with a hand specialist.

… these facts about women who have

served in the military?

There are nearly 2 million female veterans in the USA, over 60,000 from Washington State alone! Over 25,000 women from our area have served just since 9/11.

In 2010, the unemployment rate of female veterans was 11.2% compared to 9.4% of male veterans. (Bureau of Statistics) Female veterans report an av-

erage of seven years to become fully acclimated to civilian life upon return from deployment.

(Business and Professional Women's Foundation, Women Veterans in Transition report.)

The risk of homelessness for female veterans is 3.6 times more likely than non-veteran women. (Robert Rosenbeck, Director of Veteran Affairs) Many veterans come home

wounded, whether or not their injuries are visible.

Do you know a veteran who might need help?

See the “How Can I Get Help?” on page 5 of this publication for local resources.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

How to talk about PTSD

TALKING ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCES CAN LEAD TO RELIEF AND HEALING Sharing your most personal experiences can be tough yet rewarding. This is especially true when talking about life-threatening events like combat, a natural disaster, a car accident, or sexual assault. Knowing how to share your story – or disclose your trauma – takes time.

The VA wants to make sure you know how to talk to your family, friends, and doctor about your trauma.

How to share your experience

You don’t need to tell everyone at once. It’s important to share at your own pace. Tailor your conversations to your comfort level. Sharing your experience is not usually a quick chat. Make sure you have plenty of time.

People may have questions, but it’s okay to say you’re not ready to share everything in one discussion. Sharing is a process that unfolds over time.

Why talk about trauma and PTSD?

At least half of Americans have been through an event that could lead to PTSD. It’s normal to have upsetting memories, feel on edge, or have trouble sleeping after a traumatic event. Talking about what happened to you may help you feel less alone, and knowing what happened can help your loved ones support you. After sharing, you may feel less guilt or shame. Getting treatment sooner rather than later can have a real impact on your life.

Who can you talk to about the trauma?

You don’t need to have a ‘one size fits all’ approach to sharing your experience. When considering who you want to share with, here are some questions you might ask yourself: Does this person support me in other parts of my life?

Does this person usually treat me with respect and kindness?

Are they currently dealing with issues that might make it hard for them to support me?

You know what’s best for you

Disclosing your traumatic experience is an important decision. Your doctor or therapist can help you through this while keeping your health at the forefront. If you have a Premium My HealtheVet account, you can use Secure Messaging to connect with your care team, as well as manage your VA Appointments.

To find local help and resources, look for the “How Can I Get Help?” section on this page.

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Friday, January 21, 2022

VETERANS CHRONICLE

HOW CAN I GET HELP?

Every county and state has a Veteran Affairs office to answer questions about benefits and provide assistance. There are also other useful resources for veterans in the Inland Northwest.

GO ONLINE VA.gov

The Department of Veterans Affairs website has resources on every topic relevant to veterans.

VA.gov/welcome-kit

The VA Welcome Guide

covers all types of benefits and services available for veterans, new recruits, active service members and their families.

DAV9.com

Based in Post Falls, Disabled American Veterans Chapter 9 Fort Sherman shares links and information to both local and national help organizations for veterans.

Explore.VA.gov/benefitsnavigator Explore VA benefits and discover which ones you and your family may be eligible to receive.

IN PERSON

BY PHONE

1117 N. Evergreen Rd., Spokane Valley, WA (509) 477-3690 Apply for emergency services, or have any benefits or service questions answered by 5 Veteran Service Officers (VSO) and staff.

(509) 477-3690

Spokane County Regional Veteran Service

North Idaho Veteran Services and Benefits Office

120 E. Railroad Ave., Post Falls, ID (208) 446-1092 Meet with a VSO or staff for help with VA benefits enrollment, claims or other veteran needs.

Goodwill Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)

130 E. Third Ave., Spokane, WA (509) 828-2449 SSVF helps homeless veterans and their families find housing and connects veterans with other support organizations.

Healthcare for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) 504 E. Second Ave., Spokane, WA (509) 435-2019

Provides healthcare and outreach for housing, job opportunities and counseling.

Spokane County Regional Veteran Service North Idaho Veteran Services and Benefits Office 120 E. Railroad Ave., Post Falls, ID (208) 446-1092

Veteran Crisis Line

1 (800) 273-8255, press 1

North Idaho Crisis Center (208) 625-4884

Washington or Idaho 2-1-1

Dial “2-1-1” for health and human resources referrals.

If you don’t know who to call, VA has a new “Single Access Point” phone number to all VA contact centers 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411)

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Friday, January 21, 2022

The Spokesman-Review

VETERANS CHRONICLE

No veteran stands alone

Spokane Veterans Forum works with VET Court to support struggling veterans

By Mike Casey

SPOKANE VETERANS FORUM

In a busy Veteran’s Enhanced Treatment (VET) Court in Spokane, the defendant – a veteran – stood before the judge. The judge asked her for a progress report on her probation.

A year ago, the defendant pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge. She was sentenced to two years' probation. She also agreed to attend the monthly Spokane Veterans Forum (SVF) for the next year, knowing that if she graduated, her probation would be reduced to one year.

Today was her graduation day. Her sentence was completed; she had paid her debt to society and was free to march into full upstanding citizenship. With her veteran volunteer mentor standing beside her, she told the judge, and the other SVF defendants in the courtroom, that after her discharge – after what she’d seen and done and experienced – she had some trouble adjusting to civilian life. She candidly admitted that she had engaged in behavior out of her character, including the misdemeanor.

She told the entire courtroom that because of her frequent contact in the past year with her own personal mentor, who is also a veteran, and her monthly attendance at SVF, she had learned a lot about herself and how to adjust. Her learning was quickly possible, she told the courtroom, because she and her mentor could speak the same lingo from their common military experiences, including both the bad stuff that happens as well as the recall of discipline and character. Her mentor had helped her get herself straight, she said.

She proudly concluded “I am very thankful for this Veteran’s Court and Forum and I promise I will be a mentor. It’s my personal duty to give back to the

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Magistrate John A. Sampson, III, left, presents a certificate of completion to Darryl Woods during the Jacksonville 4th Judicial Circuit Veterans Treatment Court Graduation Ceremony, on May 6, 2015, in Jacksonville, Florida. program that gave me a second chance. I made it. Thank you to my mentor and thank you to everyone working in this program.”

Next on the docket, another defendant, with his volunteer mentor standing at his side, told a similar story. He said that

the monthly SVF meetings at the National Guard Readiness Center in Spokane had really helped him during a troublesome readjustment to civilian and family life.

He told everyone that the camaraderie and friendship with dozens of other veterans and

mentors, the presence of many social and veteran service organizations and resources, and the shared “chow hall” meal at dinnertime were just what he needed. He added that the two hour-long classes by community, business and university experts on topics like PTSD,

finance, psychology, and veterans telling their own “coming home” story, were always practical, helpful, and inspiring.

He finished his statement with, “It is with great humility that I express my deepest See FORUM, PAGE 7

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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Friday, January 21, 2022

VETERANS CHRONICLE FORUM

Continued from PAGE 6 appreciation and gratitude for your support, care, and concern. When a member of a community falls, members of the community step in and help the fallen get back up. Thank you for everything.”

These are but two examples of veterans who have had a scrape with the law and found resources to straighten themselves out through the Spokane Veteran’s Enhanced Treatment Court and the Spokane Veterans Forum.

In Washington, the Legislature authorized VET Courts to be a "specialty court" and "therapeutic court," which means “a court utilizing

Volunteer mentors needed

New volunteers are always needed as mentors. If someone you know is currently serving in the military, is a veteran with honorable or medical discharge, or is a spouse of a military member or veteran, contact Jerry Gutman, at jerrygutman@gmail.com for information about becoming a mentor.

To learn more, visit spokaneveteransforum.org/.

a program or programs structured to achieve both a reduction in recidivism and an increase in the likelihood of rehabilitation, through continuous and intense judicially supervised treatment and the appropriate use of services, sanctions, and incentives.”

While VET Courts are common across the country, a Veterans Forum is unique to just a few VET Courts, notably in Spokane, the Tri-Cities, and Lewiston, Idaho.

The Spokane Veterans

Forum is an independent organization that supports eight partner VET Courts in the Spokane region. Established in 2010 as a 501(C)(3), nonprofit organization, the program prepares veteran defendants to take their place as upstanding citizens in society while saving the community the cost of incarcerations.

The Forum provides mentorship, educational, therapeutic, and life enhancing services to military veterans who are referred from regional

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VET Courts. The SVF trains volunteer mentors and matches mentors with defendants. Every time SVF veterans stand up in court, their mentor stands beside them, fulfilling the organization’s promise that “No veteran stands alone.”

Co-founder and Board Chair Fred Aronow says that, after 10 years of assisting VET Courts, “Spokane Veterans Forum has a great track record on reducing recidivism and on suicide prevention as shown through the let-

ters we have received at graduation and in our own local stats. Those are prime motivators of the VET Court movement. “ The VET Court and the Forum work, and they work well for almost all veterans. In addition to the comments of graduates, the VET Court judges also have their own unique perspectives on how the VETCourt and the Forum work together.

Judge Mary Logan, Spokane Municipal Court, says, “The Forum and attendant mentor

support program are key components to the success of the VET Court.

Every court session the participants mention the contact they have with their mentors, some more in depth than others, but all have expressed deep gratitude for having that support person to help guide them through court and to fill in during the week when life happens– and often maintain contact after graduation. The Forum and mentors are the special ingredient that leads to success.”

Judge Patrick Johnson of Spokane County District Court said, “As the Veterans Court Judge for Spokane County, I have had the opportunity to witness how this program impacts lives, improves lives, and can even save the lives of our veterans.”

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

Afghanistan: Resources available for PTSD

By Adam Stump DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

This is the last in a four-part series about Afghanistan veterans and how they can get help through VA. The last part of this series focuses on resources available for PTSD. While this series focused on Afghanistan veterans, options apply to all veterans.

There are several effective options to treat PTSD. According to Dr. Sonya Norman, director of the National Center for PTSD Consultation Program, there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

Choosing a treatment from the options that we know work well should take into account your doctor’s recommendations and your preferences. Knowing the different options allows a veteran to choose a treatment that is the best fit for them.

Active duty and veterans should not be ashamed of getting the help they need, said Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman Ramón “CZ” Colón-López.

An Afghanistan veteran himself who battled PTSD, Colón-López said seeking mental health help should be routine.

“We don’t think twice about putting weapon systems in maintenance because we need them,” Colón-López said. “We run quality control checks on everything.

But the one decisive advantage we have as a U.S. military is the human weapon system. This is no different, so we need to make sure we take care of everything that we can right now as we draw down in Afghanistan. This is our depot maintenance period.”

PTSD Decision Aid

One of the easiest methods veterans can use to find options is the PTSD Decision Aid at www.ptsd.va.gov/apps/ decisionaid/. Veterans can read about the treatments that work or watch videos explaining how they work. Veterans can build a chart to compare treatments and get a personalized summary.

PTSD Program Locator

VA medical centers use a recovery-based model to treat PTSD, Norman said.

Veterans with PTSD can get treatment at nearly 200 specialized programs throughout the country. Veterans can get PTSD treatment at any VA medical center and at some large Community Based Outpatient Clinics. This locator can be found at www.va.gov/directory/guide/ PTSD.asp.

Each PTSD program offers education, evaluation and treatment. Program services include: • One-to-one mental health assessment • Medications • Groups for veterans of specific conflicts or who experienced specific traumas; groups targeting specific concerns, like anger or stress management

Vet Centers

Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers.

They provide a wide range of social and psychological services, including professional readjustment counseling. Eligible veterans, service members – including National Guard and Reserve components – and their families can use the services.

Vet Center staff offers readjustment counseling to make a successful transition from military to civilian life or after a traumatic event experienced in the military. Staff offer individual, group, marriage and family counseling in addition to referral and connection to other VA or community benefits and services.

Call the Vet Center Call Center confidentially 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (877) 9278387. Vet Center locations can be found at www.va.gov/findlocations/?facilityType=vet_ center. Spokane Vet Center, located at 13109 Mirabeau Parkway. in Spokane Valley, serves Spokane and North Idaho veterans, and can be reached at (509) 444-8387.

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Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers that provide a range of services.

Read the other parts in the series

Available online at blogs.va.gov/VAntage/category/afghanistan-series/ Part 1: Afghanistan: How veterans can reconcile service Part 2: Afghanistan: How veterans can learn from Vietnam veterans Part 3: Afghanistan: How spouses, caregivers can support veterans with PTSD

About Face

Veterans, family members and clinicians share their experiences with PTSD and PTSD treatment. Watch the videos at www. ptsd.va.gov/apps/aboutface/.

PTSD Coach

The PTSD Coach app can help veterans learn about and manage symptoms that often occur after trauma. The app, available at www.ptsd.va.gov/appvid/ mobile/ptsdcoach_app.asp, has features that include: • Reliable information on PTSD and treatments that work • Tools for screening and tracking symptoms • Convenient, easy-to-use tools to help handle stress symptoms

• Direct links to support and help • Available 24/7 Other useful self-help mobile apps can be found at www.ptsd. va.gov/appvid/mobile/index. asp, including: • Mindfulness Coach teaches mindfulness meditation.

• AIMS for Anger Management helps veterans manage anger and irritability.

• PTSD Family Coach provides support for concerned family members of those with PTSD. • VetChange helps users with PTSD build skills to reduce problem drinking.

#VetResources

There’s

a

host

of

other

resources available at blogs. va.gov/VAntage/category/vetsexperience/vetresources/. #VetResources is a weekly newsletter of VA and non-VA resources sent every Wednesday night to veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors. #VetResources focuses on tangible resources that VA’s customers can use immediately or for keeping aware of important updates. Email sign up is at https://www.va.gov/vetresources/.

Does this sound like someone you know? Get local help and find local resources in the “How Can I Get Help?” section on page 5 of this publication.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

WANT HELP MANAGING PTSD SYMPTOMS? PTSD COACH APP CAN ASSIST

The PTSD Coach app is a digital resource provided by the National Center for post-traumatic stress disorder aimed at helping veterans learn more about and manage their symptoms of PTSD. Through The PTSD Coach app allows you to use the built-in coping tools when you feel upset

or stressed, as well as create your own support net-

work. You can also track your progress to see if symptoms are improving over time.

The app includes features that allow for a customized and personal experience with music playlists and photos.

Download the app to get started today at mobile. va.gov/app/ptsd-coach.

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Telehealth PTSD treatment as effective as in-person care, but has higher drop-out

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Telehealth provides effective PTSD treatment delivery, but patients have higher dropout rates than in-person treatment.

Telehealth is an effective way to deliver PTSD treatment, but it does lead to higher drop-out rates than in-person treatment, found a VA San Diego study, published in Depression and Anxiety, the official online journal of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, in 2019.

Veteran patients with PTSD received prolonged exposure treatment in

one of three ways. Some received treatment at home via teleconferencing. Others received teleconference treatment at a VA facility. For a third group, a therapist traveled to the patient’s home for in-person treatment.

All three groups saw similar levels of clinical effectiveness. The results confirm previous studies that found telehealth to be an effective way to treat

PTSD. However, patients in the home or office telehealth groups were significantly more likely to drop out of treatment before completion. Patients in the at-home, in-person group had lower drop-out rates than the other two groups.

The results show prolonged exposure can be effectively delivered via telehealth, but treatment with an in-person element can help curb drop-out.

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

‘Ironwoman’ Navy veteran finds inner strength “

By Bret Bowers

PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER, MANNGRANDSTAFF VAMC

U.S. Navy veteran Breanna (Brea) Northup, a valued member of the VA workforce in Spokane, finished her third Ironman Triathlon in July 2021. She knew it wouldn’t be easy, but she drew strength to finish from many places deep within her heart and mind: friends, family, her children, and her hero – the “Iron Nun.” “She’s a ‘massive lighthouse’ for so many, and for so many reasons,” claimed Northup, “and yet, she told me I was a light.”

Northup first learned of Sister Madonna Buder through a Nike shoe ad on television. When she learned that the nun was a resident in Spokane, she immediately sought her out and their genuine friendship blossomed during the filming of a special television series in 2019, “The Religion of Sports – the Iron Nun.” “God … help me do my best, and You do the rest,” is the simple prayer Sister Madonna says to keep her going during the grueling hours competing in marathons and triathlons.

“She is my hero,” explained Northup. “Meeting Sister Madonna and running began a new chapter in life for me.” Northup wanted to strengthen herself as never before. “It took me over a year and half to recover from the anguish of divorce, and the reality I have two little boys counting on me to win every day in life,” she said. “I want them to understand what perseverance is. And, as athletes, we have to learn to embrace the suck.”

Northup knew long before meeting the Iron Nun that running was about pushing herself, and not just for a race. She started the “Stroller Warriors®” running club for parents with children in strollers while stationed at Camp Pendleton in California.

After transferring to Whidbey Island Naval Air Station, Northup started another chapter in

I work hard to pass on what I have learned to others, while continuing to push myself.”

Brea Northup

COURTESY PHOTOS

U.S. Navy veteran Brea Northup was a finisher of the Ironman Triathlon in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, in July 2021.

U.S. Navy veteran Brea Northup Oak Harbor, Washington, which quickly grew to more than 300 members.

Since then, Northup has remarried to an active-duty sailor

and taken on two step-daughters, and maintains a full-time job at the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center in Spokane serving her fellow veterans.

Northup chose the Ironman Triathlon in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, for her most recent physical challenge. The race includes an 2.4-mile swim in Lake Coeur d’Alene; a 112-mile bike ride; and the final “leg” of the race, a full marathon.

But 19 miles into the 26-mile run, Brea’s body began to shut down on her. She had to stop at an aid tent, but all of Northup’s attempts to reach family or friends by phone fell flat.

“I was in a lot of pain but couldn’t reach anybody to let them know I wasn’t going to be able to make it. But if I had received sympathy or ‘permission’ to stop, I knew I would have quit.”

Northup underestimated the

excruciating pain of not properly fueling herself for an Ironman race, especially in such intense summer temperatures.

She needed salt and more electrolytes if she wanted to finish within the 17-hour Ironman Triathlon deadline.

“My hands were losing feeling and cramping. I had a headache and was dizzy. I didn’t want to drink or eat anything more, it was scary.” Even more than the physical and emotional toll was the overwhelming thought of having a Did Not Finish – “DNF” disqualifier label placed after her name on the race log.

While thinking of all those pulling for her, Northup’s determination enabled her to stand back up and slowly begin walking, step by step toward the finish line. Behind on time, she was surprised by her support group, including her children and a fellow veteran who showed up

in the dark to give her one final “push” of love and strength.

“My friend Ashley, a veteran herself, proceeded to encourage me by walking with me the remaining 5 miles in her Birkenstocks. She even pushed me at the end, by running alongside me outside the race line towards the infamous red carpet/finish line.”

And, it worked. After 15 hours of endurance, a race against the clock, and two more hours of debilitating pain and dehydration, Northup finished with less than 10 minutes to spare!

Through discipline, a personal commitment to the mission, and sharing a passion for her family and dearest friends, Northup is “insanely proud of how military service shaped my life and I am so incredibly proud to be a veteran … serving other veterans. I work hard to pass on what I have learned to others, while continuing to push myself.”

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Page 11

Friday, January 21, 2022

VETERANS CHRONICLE

Mann-Grandstaff VAMC says farewell to Gary Helms

“

Army veteran retires after nearly 50 years of federal service

By Bret Bowers

PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER, MANN-GRANDSTAFF VAMC

“This job has meant so much to me,” smiled Gary Helms, who admits, “I’m going to miss the people because this has been a very large part of my social life too.”

The wind-down of 2021 sees Gary looking in the rearview mirror of over 44 years of housekeeping, laundry, and all kinds of spot duty at Spokane’s VA hospital. He retired with the arrival of 2022. “I will miss my co-workers and the veterans the most.” In all, he’s completed nearly 50 years of federal service!

Helms joined the Army before graduating high school in Spokane. He earned his high school diploma while on active duty and stationed with the Army in Germany. He calls that achievement his proudest moment.

Upon his return to Spokane in 1977, Helms accepted a position at the Spokane VAMC, becoming a popular co-worker among today’s 1,600-plus staff. “I definitely didn’t plan on being here this long,” he smiled.

By being on the “ground-floor” of the facility for all these years, Helms offers some advice to leadership and staff he’s leaving behind.

“First, I believe leadership should listen to the staff more. I’ve always looked at it as doing my best to ensure we keep the doors open for our veterans, so they want to come

here.”

Those who supervised or monitored Helm's work closely have nothing but glowing comments for a man who never considered any job too big or too small. That attitude is what makes Gary so special.

“I have worked with Gary for over 20 years and supervised him for 10 of those. He is in an hour early every day, always smiling and greeting staff and patients,” explained Dan Kinsfather, EMS Supervisor. “Gary will be missed and will always be remembered as the ‘gentle giant.’ ” These days, Helms no longer loads large artillery shells into an Army Howitzer and recalls how heavy (some shells more than 100 pounds) they were. The other memory that stands out about his military service overseas, was “how great Oktoberfest is in Germany!”

At “71 years young” Helm’s favorite memories of growing up in Spokane were the bike rides his father would lead the family on in nearby Riverside State Park. Over the years, Gary began venturing out further into this region’s scenic countryside, rivers, lakes, and mountain trails.

Gary has been married for the past 27 years, after meeting his beloved wife Joanne at a square-dancing event.

“I would like to congratulate Gary on his pending retirement. Wellearned sir,” explained Josh McCoy, Chief of Environmental Management

Gary will be missed and will always be remembered as the ‘gentle giant.’ ” Dan Kinsfather, EMS Supervisor

COURTESY PHOTOS

Gary Helms Service at Mann-Grandstaff VAMC. “All I ever did was do the best I can to keep the place clean,” Gary said with a smile before getting back to work cleaning and polishing a floor.

Congratulations on your retirement after nearly five decades of service to veterans and co-workers at Mann-Grandstaff VAMC, Gary Helms!

Page 12

Friday, January 21, 2022

The Spokesman-Review

VETERANS CHRONICLE

Hearts of Bronze at Idaho State Veterans Cemetery

By Ruth Aresvik

VETERANS HELP NET CORRESPONDENT

We drive slowly, passing the granite markers, firmly uniform in their placement. They remind me of soldiers standing at attention.

As we climb the hill and turn the corner, we are blessed with a magnificent view. Flying free and proud, Old Glory stands guard over the rugged foothills and the 76.5 acres of hallowed ground.

This is the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery in Boise, which opened in 2004 and, to date, is the final resting place for over 10,000 service men and women, including three Medal of Honor veterans. Brandon Titus, a soldier from Boise, killed

in the war in Iraq, was the first to be buried at the cemetery.

I was born and raised on a farm in Southern Idaho, and have visited the cemetery many times. On this particular visit, I wanted to see the statue that had been unveiled and dedicated in May 2021. Reporting for Channel 2 News in Boise, Trevor Fay interviewed both former Governor Dirk Kempthorne, who spearheaded the project, and sculptor Benjamin Victor.

In addition to this work, Victor is the only living sculptor to have three statues on display in the U. S. Capitol Building.

The statue, says Fay, shows a male soldier kneeling in prayer with the dog tags of his comrades in his hands, while a female soldier rests her hand on his back and looks south across

the valley, alert for danger.

Victor, who works and lives in Boise, says the theme is "having your back. It took about a year to make the piece. And it's two life-sized figures, so it wasn't a quick process, obviously, and there was a lot of research involved. I used the real uniforms to look at and measure off of to sculpt and make sure everything on the sculpture was accurate."

The man wears a uniform from the Vietnam War era, while the woman wears clothing from the Gulf War. Both figures of the statue have bronze hearts inside of them.

The hearts are filled with soil from the fields of American wars.

As I circle the statue, I notice several pennies have been placed at the feet of the sol-

diers, indicating that someone (veteran or civilian) has visited this site, or grave. Coins are often left on the headstones – a nickel would signify that the coin-leaver attended boot camp with the veteran. A dime signifies that the coin-leaver served with the veteran in some capacity. A quarter: the visitor was present when the veteran died.

My paperwork is on file and secure at this cemetery. Someday I will be at peace with the wind and the windflowers, overlooking my beautiful Idaho. I take one last look at this Treasure Valley, then turn to the solid bronze soldiers, salute, and place a penny at their feet.

To learn more, visit www. idaho.veterans.gov/cemetery.

RUTH ARESVIK/VETERANS HELP NET

The statue, titled “I Will Have Your Back Always,” was sculpted

by Idaho artist Benjamin Victor.

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