Veteran Drives from Canada to Receive Top-Care at Wilmington VA Medical Center
U.S. Army Veteran Robert Brownridge wrote an appreciation letter to the Wilmington VA Medical Center, giving accolades to Wilmington VA staff that went above and beyond during his appointments.
“I want you to know how wonderful your staff is to me, and I really appreciate them, and I know they will continue to offer the best possible service,” said Brownridge. “No where outside the VA, would be approaching the treatment and coordination that I experience every time I am treated at the Wilmington VA.”
Mr. Brownridge and his wife, Elaine Burns, drive from their home in Ontario, Canada to the Wilmington VA to receive care. This is about an 11-hour car ride for them each way.
“It is worth the drive…you do such a great job for your Veterans,” said Ms. Burns, a retired Canadian nurse. “A lot of his issues have been found, that wouldn’t have been found if the medical providers here weren’t so in depth. There’s no brushing it off. In medicine, I think that is a big problem.”
Since they have a long commute, Brownridge tries to plan his doctor’s appointments close together. VA staff also try to help make it convenient and easy by rearranging appointments as needed.
During one visit, Mr. Brownridge mixed his days up and mistakenly thought his appointment was on a Monday when instead it was on that Friday. Medical Support Assistant, Andre Clark in Optometry was able to get Brownridge in on that Tuesday. This saved Brownridge from driving all this way and missing his scheduled appointment.
Mr. Brownridge also recognized Vascular Surgery Clinic Nurse, Michele Bennett and Vascular Surgeon Naveen Balasundaram, in his letter of appreciation.
“Michelle Bennett and Dr. Balasundaram are a great team and went above and beyond for me,” said Mr. Brownridge.
Receiving great care is a big help to Mr. Brownridge who loves traveling with his wife and competing in the Senior Olympics for swimming. This past year Mr. Brownridge qualified for the Senior Olympics in Pitsburg, Ohio.
“I am able to swim farther than I can walk at times,” said Mr. Brownridge. “I love being able to do it.”
Veterans interested in enrolling in VA health care can enroll online at How To Apply For VA Health Care | Veterans Affairs, call 877-222-8387, or visit their nearest VA eligibility office.