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Stories

Read about what's happening in our VA West Palm Beach health care community.

  • Through the VA’s Compensated Work Therapy program, one Veteran found purpose, belonging, and a new way to serve, this time behind the camera.

    Veteran Charles Bazier displaying a photograph from when he was active duty.

  • Once a lost Veteran to now a leader that guides Veterans through civilian trenches, it is no surprise that Veteran Manuel Calo, Jr. holds the title of 2025 Peer Specialist of the Year for the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System.

    Manuel Calo, 2025 Peer Specialist of the Year for the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System

  • The halls of the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System (WPBVAHCS) Community Living Center (CLC) filled with cheer as Santa Claus made his rounds, not just for the holiday, but as part of a new year-round initiative designed to brighten the days of Veterans in the CLC and Hospice units.

    Air Force Veteran Edward Cony shares a smile with Santa and his elves during the Santa Salutes visit.

  • At nearly sixty years old, James Obermesik, has lived through more than most.

    DOM Story

  • After years of service and silent battles, Chaplain Turner at the Miami VA rediscovered connection, purpose, and healing sparked by the companionship of a four-legged friend.

    Chaplain Turner with his service animal

  • From one battle to the next, including four types of cancers linked to his time at Ground Zero, it goes without saying that Eliot Winokur’s resilience remains unshaken.

    Eliot Winokur’s by Al Galan

  • From Veteran Marina Perez beginning her roots in Trinidad to age not defining her limits as a competitor for the National Veterans Golden Age Games, she is what many call “unstoppable”.

    The National Veterans Golden Age Games is open to VA enrolled U.S. military Veterans who are 55 years old or beyond by December 31, 2025.

  • From the disciplined halls of the U.S. Marine Corps boot camp to the compassionate corridors of the VA, Veteran Mary Jean Houlahan, has always found her purpose in service.

    Updated photo

  • Growing up in the vibrant streets of The Bronx, it was inevitable for U.S. Army Veteran Denis Velez to immerse himself into the art culture found on every block.

    The artist duo, Dennis and Mayra Velez.

  • VA is implementing a new, modernized appointment scheduling system to better deliver the SOONEST and BEST CARE to Veterans.

    Integrated Scheduling System graphic