Vietnam Veteran uses personal recovery to help others

One Hines VA Veteran is using his recovery story to help others in need. 

Richard Meegan experienced decades of alcohol addiction and PTSD after serving in the 3rd Marine Division in Vietnam but found healing through a meditation class at Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital.

“Starting my meditation practice was a life changing experience for me,” said Meegan. “The class not only taught the practice of meditation but the science behind it and the benefits of mindful awareness.”

However, meditation and mindful awareness of his whole health was not always the former Marine’s first course of action toward healing.

To overcome his long struggle with addiction, Meegan took part in cognitive processing therapy for PTSD as well as substance abuse rehabilitation at Hines VA before becoming sober in 2015 at the age of 67. 

Following his sobriety, Meegan began exploring more ways to better himself. With the help of Hines VA’s Whole Health Service Chief Dr. Irena Persky and Dr. Lakshmi Athota, Director of the Center for Mindfulness and Integrative Psychiatry at Hines VA, Meegan found meditation to be a life-changing experience towards his new sobriety. 

“My thanks go out to Dr. Irena Persky and Dr. Lakshmi Athota for enabling me to find peace and tranquility in my life,” said Meegan. 

Athota explained Meegan approached meditation not just to manage stress, but to better experience the world around him. 

“Mr. Meegan lives mindfulness,” said Athota. “He embodies the qualities of present centeredness, kindness, and acceptance.” 

Persky considered it an honor to witness the Veteran’s growth.

“Through the journey of mindful self-discovery, Mr. Meegan embarked on a profound personal transformation,” said Persky. 

Meegan’s transformation prompted him to volunteer as a whole health peer facilitator at Hines VA. Now, he regularly guides 20 Veterans towards recovery using his experiences and mindfulness skills.

In addition to teaching Introduction to Whole Health, Meegan facilitates a whole health group called Taking Charge of Your Life and Health twice a week.

“Mr. Meegan’s dedication to empowering others toward healing and whole health and generosity in volunteering his time at Hines VA are incredible,” said Persky. “We are truly grateful for his wonderful contributions to Veteran well-being.”

Megan considers it a privilege to help his fellow Veterans towards recovery. 

“What I find the most meaningful about teaching these classes is showing Veterans how to practice mindfulness and take charge of their life and health,” he concluded.