Director's Message October 7, 2022
On October 5, 2022, the Honorable Secretary Dennis McDonough visited Oahu. He attended a hearing at the Oahu Veterans Center with Senator Mazie Hirono.
He also participated in a Veteran Student Roundtable at the University of Hawaii. Then, he visited our Windward Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) at 46-001 Kamehameha Hwy Ste. 301 in the Adventist Castle Professional Center.
I was honored to have the opportunity to meet with the Secretary and his staff, and to show him the progress that we are making here at VAIHCS. I look forward to future visits and future opportunities to collaborate with VA leadership on ways to improve care across the Pacific Islands for all the men and women who have worn the cloth of our Nation.
It was a busy week in terms of the efforts that we put forward to host The Secretary Denis McDonough. I saw great efforts by everyone, and I appreciate it. You did an excellent job, but most importantly you were true professionals, which reflected in everything you did. I really am grateful for each of you and for the efforts you make each day.
Water Outage
On Friday, October 7, 2022 we had a water main break here at the Tripler Army Medical Center (TAMC) campus that impacted both the hospital, and our facilities. I want to thank everyone for their readiness and response, and to recognize that when something like this happens, it’s a major effort. A lot of people are involved in working to solve problems of this nature, and I want to thank you. Your efforts don’t go unnoticed, and I’m proud of the way that you take care of our Veterans and each other. We spend most of our waking hours with our co-workers, and it’s important to make sure it’s a positive environment.
Caregiver Support Program Expansion
On October 1, 2022, VA expanded the Caregiver Support Program. VA recognizes the important role that family caregivers play in caring for veterans. Through this expansion, VA can ensure that family caregivers of all eligible veterans have access to comprehensive support. We know this program will continue to improve the lives of so many veterans and caregivers.
For more information about the expansion, or to learn more about VA’s Caregiver Support Program, visit www.caregiver.va.gov/index.asp, reach out to your local CSP team, or call our Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Every October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to spread awareness about the disease that kills nearly 41,000 women each year. VA Pacific Islands Healthcare System (VAPIHCS) encourages all our women veterans to get regular screening, as early identification and treatment can save their lives. Patients can call radiology to schedule their Mammogram Monday-Friday, 7:30 am to 4 pm at 808-433-7629.
Remember that while it is less common, men can also get breast cancer. Male veterans should also do self-breast exams and talk to their doctor if they have any concerns.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Our mental health staff work hard to be supportive of Veterans. However, there are many other resources available for victims and their families:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-888-656-HOPE (4673)
National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-8888
Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence: 1-808-832-9316
American Samoa Resources: 1-684-699-0171
Guam Coalition: 1-671-479-2277
Domestic violence including child abuse, intimate partner abuse, and elder abuse are common problems in the United States. Family and domestic health violence are estimated to affect 10 million people in the United States every year. It is a national public health problem, and virtually all healthcare professionals will at some point evaluate or treat a patient who is a victim of some form of domestic or family violence. If you need help, please reach out.
To learn more, visit:
Domestic Violence Awareness Month https://youtu.be/cwOVYg1pgxA
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (English/Spanish) https://youtu.be/5nOmrUUeC0k
Mes de Concientización sobre la Violencia Doméstica https://youtu.be/fBRmwCdxtbs
National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Every October, VA joins the rest of the nation in observing National Disability Employment Awareness Month. We celebrate the many contributions of people with disabilities to our country’s workplaces, and our economic well-being.
This year’s theme, “Disability: Part of the Equity Equation,” underscores the invaluable contributions of America’s workers with disabilities, and the necessity of fair, just and inclusive employment policies and practices.
This month is dedicated to affirming and protecting the rights of people with disabilities: the right to equal opportunity, economic self-sufficiency, and equitable participation in all aspects of society.
As you may know, people with disabilities face a diverse set of challenges. They experience traumatic brain injuries, mobility challenges, spinal cord issues, vision or hearing impairments, cognitive and learning challenges, psychological issues, and many other types of disabilities. But there is one thing in common about this multi-faceted, diverse group of individuals: they overcome the challenges they face to contribute to American life in so many ways.
In the 32 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed, millions of adults with disabilities have entered the labor force. VA employs a variety of people with disabilities and celebrates their participation and the perspective that they add to our Ohana.
Thoughts from Chaplain Richie Charles
An Indian folklore speaks of a water bearer in India who had two large water pots, each hung on one end of a pole which he carried across his shoulders. The water pot on the left end of the pole had a crack in it, while the other pot on the right was perfect, always retaining its water. The perfect pot always managed to hold a full portion of water at the end of the water bearer’s long walk from the stream to his house, but the cracked water pot arrived only half full.
The perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments, while the cracked water pot was ashamed of its imperfection. One day, the cracked water pot said, “I want to apologize to you." "Why?" asked the water bearer. The cracked water pot replied "I have been able, for these past two years, to deliver only half my share of water because these cracks cause water to leak out each day. Because of my flaws, you don't get the full value from your efforts," the pot said.
The water bearer, in his compassion said, "I want you to notice the beautiful flowers along the path. Did you notice that there were flowers only on your side of your path, but not on the perfect pot's side? That's because I have always known about your flaws, and how water ends up leaking through. That’s why I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we would walk back from the stream, you've watered them. You have unknowingly quenched the thirsty soil and helped these flowers flourish.
While we strive to improve daily, none of us are perfect. But be encouraged that despite our imperfections, we can still make an impact each day that can help others to flourish.
Long Weekend
It is a long weekend, and I want to remind everyone to be safe. We might be done with COVID-19, but the virus is not done with us. Stay up-to-date on your shots and your boosters, and have a great Indigenous People’s Day and Columbus Day weekend.
One Team, One Ohana!
Adam M. Robinson, Jr., MD, MBA, CPE
Director, VA Pacific Islands Health Care System
VADM, MC, USN, (RET)
36th Surgeon General, USN
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