Military veterans are at an increased risk of developing ALS. That is why ALS United Mid-Atlantic continues to advocate for the needs and concerns of veterans and their families who have been impacted by this disease.
The PVA (Paralyzed Veterans of America) released a statement about potential cuts to veterans care.
Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) is deeply troubled by actions being taken in Washington, D.C. that are already having a detrimental impact on the services that veterans with spinal cord injuries and diseases (SCI/D) like ALS and MS, rely upon. In recent weeks, you have likely heard many reports of widespread changes in federal government staffing and funding. While we understand and generally support the underlying desire for agencies, including the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), to streamline access to care and benefits, the arbitrary and haphazard way that these efforts are being approached is failing that mission and harming veterans.
The care professionals at ALS United Mid-Atlantic regularly work with PVA to assist veterans with ALS. This relationship ensures that veterans in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware can access the care that they need and deserve.
“I worked with the Chicago PVA on a personal level for my dad during his battle with ALS. They were amazing,” said ALS United Mid-Atlantic Program Coordinator Larissa Gibbons. “They helped with the paperwork, submitting for him, and getting him expedited since time is of the essence. They helped him get any grants he was eligible for (van, home modifications, etc.) and the monthly income for having a service-connected disease. The VA is huge and having this smaller division helps patients like ours navigate it much better.”
“I want to express my deep concern regarding recent developments affecting our veterans. We are witnessing cuts within the VA, including layoffs of Specially Adapted Housing (SHA) coordinators and discussions about potentially eliminating the Spinal Cord Injury or Disease (SCID) program. This change could significantly impact veterans, especially those affected by ALS and many others who have experienced paralysis due to combat or training.
Even if you don’t personally know a veteran with ALS, there are countless veterans among us who deserve our support. They have bravely served our country, and it is essential that we advocate for their well-being.
I encourage you to take action by signing and sharing the petition from the Paralyzed Veterans of America.”
— Lura Sawyer, caregiver to her husband Peter Sawyer, veteran with ALS
For more information on how you can participate in ALS advocacy, email Tony@alsmidatlantic.org.