The Orlando VA Healthcare System is excited to announce the launch of the VA Health Chat App, a new tool designed to provide Veterans with immediate, text-based access to VA healthcare clinicians and staff. Veterans can access VA Health Chat through the VA Health Chat App on iOS or Android, or via a browser. A secure login is required, which can be created using Login.gov, or ID.me (one of these options should be your recent new way to login to the VA). Clinical Triage: Get medical advice for nonlife- threatening injuries or illnesses. You can use the chat for: Pharmacy Support:to refill or ask questions about VA prescriptions; schedule appointments or ask administrative questions; and Virtual Clinic Visit (Urgent Care): to receive immediate medical advice for urgent but non-emergency issues. You can start the conversation at https://bit.ly/3QaLTr9.
New foundation to prevent veteran suicides, provide grieving families support The Red Star Foundation has a dual mission to prevent suicides in the veterans and first responder communities, and also to support grieving families. I think the latter is probably what is most unique about this foundation. Due to the persistent stigma still prevalent in our society concerning suicide, these surviving families are often called the “forgotten families,” and they need resources that are not readily available locally. For more information see https://bit.ly/40PzttG.
Help inspire fellow veterans—or find the inspiration yourself
Orlando VA Healthcare has started a monthly speaker series called “Pushing Beyond the Mission: Stories of Inspiration and Motivation.” They are looking for veterans to share their stories to motivate others to achieve greatness and build a stronger community of comradeship and support. The next session is Feb. 25 at 3 p.m. at the Lake Nona VA Hospital. To register to speak or attend, and get more info see https://bit.ly/4jQnfcY.
Sign up for some adventure with the Unbroken Spirit 2025 programs The programs are designed to guide veterans on a transformative journey toward personal growth and resilience through strengthening the body, mind, and spirit through Adaptive Sports and outdoor “expeditions. Programs start in May; however, interviews are happening now. To learn more and to apply, go to https://bit.ly/40QUdBh.
Please send along your veteran-related events, concerns, and comments to osceolavets@gmail.com.
