Stories
Madison VA Hospital and Clinics stories and highlights for the Veterans, their families, and caregivers.
Army Vet learns it's never too late to be true to yourself at Madison VA
Army Veteran Michael Baker hid his sexuality from the world his entire life, but a chance encounter at the Madison VA Hospital changed that forever. Here's excerpts from his My Life, My Story...
VA Employee Aces Job Interview with Hands-only CPR
Ever saved a life using CPR? How about twice in one week?
VA Employee Connected Through Life
Some people give the shirt off their back for friends and family, but Jennifer Vernig went a little further.
Navy Veteran's Biggest Supporter Isn't Even Human
About three years ago, I was an old man with a pet poodle parking at the Madison West VA Clinic for my annual checkup. I ensured my dog had water, shade and fresh air during my appointment.
"I quit smoking to be healthy for my two boys. What better motivation is there than that?”
Madison VA has a variety of options to help Veterans quit smoking, and Army Veteran Nicole Thompson knows all about them. This is her journey in her words...
Marine Corps Veteran and Former VA Employee Empowered by Gratitude and Resilience
As a retired Veteran and Madison VA employee, Roland “Rollie” Carothers’ perspective on the impact of depression and chronic pain is personal. He hopes he can use his 22 years of experience to help other Veterans.
Iraq Veteran Overcomes Wounds from a Different Kind of Combat
“Don’t talk about my best friend that way.”
Marine Corps Veteran finds second wind with Madison VA care team
Marine Corps and Army Reserve Veteran Warren Crowell has struggled with worsening chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for years, but the COPD CARE program, developed and implemented at the Madison VA, has allowed him to live life the way he wants.
James Gardner Puts DEI into Practice for Madison VA
James Gardner is no stranger to discrimination. Being a gay, black man, he’s been a target all his life. But now he’s made it a mission to create a more inclusive culture for those around him.
Brent Hass conquers abuse, prison time and addictions to serve other Veterans
Army Veteran Brent Hass has a story that makes the best Hollywood thriller seem like a snoozer.