The NewsleTTer of The New eNglaNd ChapTer paralyzed VeTeraNs of ameriCaJanuary 2013 Vol. LXIII, #1
a member ChapTer of The paralyzed VeTeraNs of ameriCa – CharTered by The CoNgress of The uNiTed sTaTes
CORD WORDWORDCORD
President’sReport
3
Executive Director’s Report
4
Service Officer’sReport
5
Sports Report6
Gulf War Study8
New EnglandVAMC News
9
EducationalAssistance
10
VA News11
December DrawingWinners
11
InsideWhat’s
continued on page 7
On December 5, NEPVA Officers and Board members, NEPVA and PVA staff, and friends celebrated the holidays at Davios, at Patriot Place in Foxboro. Shown are (seated front row, left to right): Craig Cascella, Moe Morrison, Ann Marie Wallace, Mike Guilbault, Wayne Ross, Charles Schena, Brad Carlson; (standing rear-left to right): George and Denise Pease, Joe Badzmierowski, Ken Lipton, Dustin Soroka, Judy Goldstein, Jennifer Bartoromei, Lee Cianca, Steve Robinson, Natalie (Lee’s friend), Jeri Farinella, Kathy Carlson. (Not shown: Neal and Jeanna Williams, John and Anne Brako)
The Holiday Season has come to a close but not before multiple celebrations took place. Immediately following the
December 5th NEPVA Board of Director’s meeting, Officer’s, Board Members, staff and friends gathered at Davios, at Patriot Place for the annual Chapter Holiday Dinner. Approxi-mately 25 people attended the gathering includ-ing PVA staff members: VBD Eastern Region Director Joe Badzmierowski, Senior Secretary Ann Marie Wallace, and Vocational Rehabilita-tion Counselor Ken Lipton. After enjoying a delicious dinner and some lavish desserts, pho-tographer Harley Freedman took a group photo before everyone departed. Unfortunately, Debra Freed was flying home from a vacation in Las Vegas and was unable to attend.
The NEPVA Rollers held its annual little get together at Westgate Lanes on the 18th. Many thanks go to Maureen (Moe) Morrison for making the arrangements. Also many thanks go to our league players who contributed to the lunch.
A generous donation of $500.00 was received from an NEPVA member for holiday parties at West Roxbury and Brockton VAMCs. The West Roxbury party started just before noon and ended a little after 1pm on December 19th. Some of the patients had appointments they wanted to keep. There were a number of individuals both in-
Holiday Celebrationspatient and out-patient in attendance. Mr. Mike Negrete, Mr. Brent Cote, Mr. Wayne Ross, and the Chapter President Craig Cascella enjoyed a hearty meal and some wonderful desserts.
The Brockton holiday party on December 20th was also a huge success, again especially with the infusion of the generous donation. NEPVA shares in the festivities with other local groups. NEPVA plays its part by providing a good por-tion of the meal. There too were plenty of left-overs for the night and weekend folks.
A number of organizations come together during this time with gifts donated by them or com-panies. There were Bruins jerseys given out and each in-patient received a hugh bag full of good-ies. Many thanks to those who helped make the holidays a bit brighter.
Cord Word January 2013
www.nepva.org
PARALYZED VETERANS of AMERICA
NEW ENGLAND CHAPTERNEPVA ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE
1600 PROVIDENCE HIGHWAY-SUITE 143WALPOLE, MA 02081
TEL: (508) 660-1181, 1-(800) 660-1181FAX: (508) 668-9412; e-mail: [email protected]
web: www.nepva.orgOffice Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:30pm
NEPVA OFFICERSPresident, Craig CascellaVice President, Dustin SorokaSecretary, Walter FarringtonTreasurer, Charles SchenaNational Director, Craig Cascella
EXECUTIVE BOARD John BrakoBrad CarlsonMike GuilbaultPeter Moore Wayne RossJim WallackNeal Williams
NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICEPARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA
BOSTON VA REGIONAL OFFICEJ.F.K. FEDERAL BUILDING - Room - 1575 C
BOSTON, MA 02203TEL: (617) 303-1395 & 1-800-795-3607
Fax: (617) 723-7467
Eastern Region Director, Joseph E. BadzmierowskiSenior Secretary, Ann Marie Wallace
Cord Word is published twelve times a year by the New England Chapter Paralyzed Veterans of America, 1600 Providence Hwy., Suite 143, Walpole, MA 02081 in the interest of Chapter members. Membership in NEPVA entitles you to a free subscription to Cord Word. Articles published in Cord Word do not necessarily reflect the views of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, New England Chapter. NEPVA neither endorses nor guarantees any of the products or services advertised herein. Postmaster: send changes of address to NEPVA, 1600 Providence Hwy., Suite 143, Walpole, MA 02081
Monthly meetings are held every first Wednesday of the month at the NEPVA office in Walpole, Ma. The executive board meets at 10:30 a.m. Followed by the regular membership meeting at 1:00 p.m.
PROGRAM DIRECTORSDevelopment Director, Craig CascellaMembership Officer, Craig CascellaMS Liaison, John BrakoCommunity Outreach, Mike GuilbaultNEPVA Peer Mentor Rep., Mike GuilbaultScholarship Chairman, Craig CascellaSports Director, Brad CarlsonAssistant Sports Director, Mike GuilbaultBass Trail Liaison, Jim WallackWomen Veterans’ Liaison, Debra FreedVolunteer Chairman, Judy Goldstein
Hospital Liaisons Brockton, MA VAMC, Craig CascellaWest Roxbury, MA VAMC, Craig CascellaNorthampton, MA VAMC, Tim KellyProvidence, RI VAMC, Craig CascellaManchester, NH VAMC, Walter Farrington West Haven, CT VAMC, VacantWhite River Jct, VT VAMC, Craig CascellaTogus, ME VAMC, Dustin Soroka
STAFFExecutive Director, Debra FreedCord Word Editor, Judy GoldsteinGovernment Relations Director, Debra FreedAdministrative Assistant, Judy GoldsteinBookkeeper, Jeri FarinellaCord Word Design & Web Master, Harley Freedman
2
PVA NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICETOGUS, VARO, 1 VA CENTER
BLDG 248, ROOM 112AUGUSTA, ME 04330
Serving maine, new HampSHire and vermont
TEL:(207) 621-7394, FAX: (207) 621-4829TOLL FREE: 866-795-1911
National Service Officer II, John StansburySecretary, Wendy Glidden
IN REMEMBRANCE
We deeply regret the passing of our Chapter Members:
and extend our heartfelt sympathyto family and friends.
Edmund E. AckersonMaude L. Blowe
Barbara A. CaldwellTheodore E. Lambert, Sr.
Stephen A. Tewksbury
Nine Month Drawing
December Winners
See page 11
January 2013Cord Word
www.nepva.org 3
By Craig C. Cascella NEPVA President
President’s Report
continued on page 13
I hope all of our members, volun-
teers, and friends had a terrific
Christmas holiday and on behalf of
the Chapter and myself, hope all of you
have a happy and healthy 2013. Our
newsletter this month is getting to you a
little bit later than usual. We apologize,
but hope you understand that with the
Christmas holiday and individuals vaca-
tioning or spending time with families
and friends, this put a slight delay in
finding its way to your mailbox.
I am already thinking of and wish-
ing for the warmer days and months
ahead, even if they are or may seem far
away. However, for those of you who
have been involved with sailing and/or
attended our veterans-only sponsored
collaboration with Sail to Prevail in
Newport, RI, mark your calendars for
June 21, 22, and 23, 2013. Those are
the tentative dates for the veterans-only
three-day sailing event with Sail to
Prevail. Many Chapter members and I
have attended this event and have had a
terrific time sailing in lovely Newport,
RI. Once we receive final confirma-
tion from Sail to Prevail, we will post a
flyer and other specific information in
our newsletter and on our Chapter web
site. Past attendees and newcomers are
welcome.
On December 4th, I participated in a
PVA teleconference with PVA National
staff, fellow National Directors, and
Past PVA Presidents. As part of meet-
ing Better Business Bureau (BBB)
standards, PVA is required to conduct
three meetings per year. This past meet-
ing, along with the usual Mid-Winter
Board Meeting, and PVA’s Annual
Convention, allows PVA to meet the
BBB standards. During the telecon-
ference, PVA’s Board of Directors
unanimously approved long-time and
Immediate Past PVA Secretary Frank
Rigo’s appointment as an Honorary
Director. Frank has been involved with
PVA for many, many years and held
the position of Secretary for over thirty
years. He was involved with many of
PVA’s accomplishments over the years.
Congratulations to Frank. There was
also discussion on the PVA Healthcare
Summit, which has been held annu-
ally on a rotating basis in Orlando, FL
and Las Vegas, NV. The Summit has
been well-received and has been a good,
educational event for VA SCI staff and
clinicians attending. PVA has in the
past offered discounts and financial
assistance to VA SCI staff and clinicians
for those interested in attending the
annual Summit. For more information
on the Summit please visit PVA’s web
site or contact the PVA
National Office.
On December 18th
& 19th, NEPVA
sponsored Christmas
Parties at the West
Roxbury and Brockton
VA Medical Centers
(see photo). The food
presentations were
vast, abundant,
and delicious.
Many Chapter
Officers and
members, as
well as VA
medical staff
and guests, were
in attendance. It was
a pleasure to spend time with
many familiar faces and friends, as well
as chatting and socializing with some
new faces and newly injured veterans. I
had the pleasure of speaking with these
newly injured individuals and inform-
ing them of all the terrific opportuni-
ties that both PVA and NEPVA offer.
I also expanded on the many organiza-
tional accomplishments and Chapter
efforts to provide assistance to veterans
and the disabled community since its
inception in 1947.
In other local news: To help Veter-
ans get in shape for the New Year,
VA Central Western Massachusetts
Healthcare System will offer a late
afternoon weight management class in
Springfield beginning in January 2013.
The class will be held from 5 to 6 p.m.
every other week on Wednesdays at the
Springfield Vet Center, 1985 Main St.,
Springfield, in the Northgate Plaza.
The class will begin Jan. 2 and will
conclude April 10. The class is part of
the VA’s MOVE! program, a national
VA initiative designed to help veterans
lose weight, keep it off, and improve
their health. The program emphasizes
health and wellness through nutri-
Cord Word January 2013
www.nepva.org4
By Debra FreedExecutive Director
Executive Director’s Report
As the New Year begins, I sin-
cerely hope everyone had a
good Christmas, Holiday, and
Happy New Year.
Well, 2012 was certainly an interesting
year in many ways. The Chapter Trans-
portation program is moving along
well. NEPVA now has the bus and a
2012 accessible mini-van which has
been well received. Unfortunately, the
shelter the Chapter put up to protect
the bus and mini-van was damaged by
Super-storm Sandy and had to be disas-
sembled. Hopefully in Spring of 2013
we can get it back up.
The Chapter sporting programs went
well. However, 2013 will have a couple
of additions. NEPVA will be hosting
three PVA Tournaments in 2013, the
first will be a Trap-shoot that will be
held in June in Maine, the second event
will be the September Bass Trail which
will have a new home but remains in
NH. Finally, the Chapter will be host-
ing its first PVA/NEPVA Bowling
Tournament in October. So please keep
an eye out for dates.
NEPVA has re-established the “What’s
It Like” Program. Mike Guilbault
– long time Peer Mentor and Com-
munity Outreach volunteer has always
done a great job in this area. He always
manages to get enough people to pro-
vide a good program for students. It’s
great because he shows there is very
little difference between an able-bodied
student and one who uses a wheelchair.
Mike already has two schools lined up
for January and February.
It may have been a little slow on the leg-
islative front for 2012 both at the state
and federal levels. I am not as informed
about the other five New England states
and what they offer veterans as I am in
MA. I am very proud of all the hard
work that has been done on behalf of
veterans at the state and federal levels.
It is great to see how well both the state
and federal VA are working together
to get veterans all the assistance they
deserve. Keep an eye out for events that
may interest you. NEPVA remains a
member of the Women Veterans Com-
mittee as well as the State Veterans
Affairs Committee.
At the National PVA Convention this
past August, several changes were made
to the by-laws, so please be on the watch
for the by-law changes which will be
published in the Cord Word. NEPVA is
part of the pilot “re-branding” program
PVA is working on. All PVA member
chapters will soon have the same logo
and the PVA name with the local chap-
ter name following it. This process has
been started and is estimated to be in
effect for the fiscal year 2014.
Many of you are well aware that the
U.S. Senate did not ratify the UN Con-
vention on the Rights of Persons with
Disabilities. I am proud to announce
that all twelve New England Senators
voted Yes to ratify. I am sure it may
be a talking point in the New Year as
the incoming
group begins
their duties in
January. This
may be one of
several issues
we will address
in the coming year.
Because this has to go to
press before the end of the month, we
will not know the outcomes of Con-
gress & the Administration’s progress
to avoid the “fiscal cliff” as it is being
called. Rest assured, NEPVA & PVA
will continue to work and make sure
that the so-called 47% of society has an
active voice.
Two last points: as we move into the
New Year, hopefully one of your resolu-
tions was to remain mindful of all those
who serve veterans, both employees and
volunteers alike. A simple “Thank You”
really can go a long way!!!!!
Finally, NEPVA has re-established its
online donation program and will be
able to accept credit cards for donations
as well as purchasing gear!!!!
Highlights from the Past, Highlights for the Future
Wayne Ross’s contribution to the 2012 Bowl-ing league Holiday party.
January 2013Cord Word
www.nepva.org 5
Service Officer’s Report
continued on page 12
By John V. MullallySenior Benefits Advocate
VA Foreign Medical Program
A few months back I was
informed by a service-
connected PVA member
that medical expenses were acquired
while traveling abroad. The member
requested if reimbursement for the
expenses could be granted if applied for
through the Veteran Affairs.
I took the opportunity to inform the
PVA member of the VA’s Foreign
Medical Program (FMP). The FMP
program is a US Department of Vet-
erans Affairs (VA) health care benefits
program for the United States veterans
with service-connected conditions
rated by the VA residing or traveling
internationally. Under the FMP, the VA
assumes responsibility for payment for
certain necessary health care services
associated with the treatment of those
service-connected conditions.
The FMP is administered from the
Veteran Affairs Administration Center
(HAC) out of Denver, Colorado. The
HAC is where veterans can process
applications; inquire about eligibil-
ity and benefits to include payment of
claims and processing of claims. FMP
program questions should be forwarded
and address by the HAC.
EligibilityThe eligibility requirements for medi-
cal services prove quite different for
veterans living outside the United
States in comparison to veterans living
within the United States. The Veteran
Affairs reserves the right to authorize
medical services in foreign countries
for veterans who contain a VA rated
service-connected disability or a disabil-
ity aggravated and associated with a VA
service-connected medical condition.
What does this mean? It means that
disability percentages have no bear-
ing on determining eligibility for FMP
medical services. Additionally, The Vet-
eran Affairs can authorize any necessary
foreign medical services for any type
of medical condition for veterans par-
ticipating in the VA Vocational Reha-
bilitation Program (38 U.S.C. 31). The
Foreign Medical Program at the VA
Health Administration Center does not
hold any jurisdiction over health care
services received in the Philippines.
General Exclusions (This list is not all inclusive)
FMP does not cover:
• Checkcashingfees
• Latechargesonunpaidbills
• Assistedliving
• Adultdaycare
• DMEwithluxury/deluxefeatures
• Custodialcare
• Nursinghomes
• Domiciliaryfacilitiesgenerally
referred to as halfway houses
• Non-acuteinstitutionalcare;long-
term inpatient nursing home care and
psychiatric care
• Daycareandhospitalizations(day)
• Prescribedproceduressuchasdrugs,
treatments or devices prescribed by
hypnotists, massage therapists
• Non-supervisedphysicaltherapy
• Non-medicalhomecare(aidand
attendance)
• Procedures,treatments,drugs,or
devices investigational or experimen-
tal
• Servicesbilledorfurnishedbymedi-
cal providers
• Anymedicalfacilitybarredfrom
FMP participation (The HAC has to
notify veterans before barring medi-
cal providers)
• ServicesnotacceptedbytheUSmed-
ical communities or Veteran Affairs
• Treatment,servicesorprescriptions
not related to a veterans service-
connected disability
• Services,treatmentsandsuppliesthat
are not found medically necessary or
submitted from countries prohibited
in participating in the FMP
• TheFMPmayonlyauthorizetravel
services for a VA ordered Compensa-
tion and Pension examination and
ambulance services in a life or limb-
threatening emergency to the nearest
medical facility
What Is Not Covered and What Is CoveredFMP benefits are limited to services
proved medically necessary in treating
VA rated service-connected conditions,
unlike typical health benefits and insur-
ance plans where ranges of benefits
prove standard with their enrolled sub-
scribers and beneficiaries.
Cord Word January 2013
www.nepva.org6
Sports & Recreation By Brad Carlson Sports Director
Sports ReportBy Brad Carlson
2013 SLED HOCKEY CLINICSNortheast Passage in partnership with the VA Boston
Healthcare System is pleased to announce the 2012-
2013 Sled Hockey
Season. A seated ver-
sion of hockey open to
anyone with
difficulty stand-up
skating.
If interested contact:
Jenny McLaughlin, CTRS
VA Boston Healthcare System
774-826-1955
Held at:
Nobles School Rink,
10 Campus Drive, Dedham, MA 02096
Clinics are free to those who register
Dates & Time:9:30am-12pm
January: 6, 20
February: 3, 24
March: 3, 10
What a great year. It is so hard to remember all the
great sporting events that we did last year!
We did everything from Bass Trail events, Hunting in
New York State, Shooting at gun clubs all over Cape Cod,
Football at Gillette Stadium, and the National Veterans
Wheelchair Games in Richmond, VA. Not to mention, the
wonderful Winter and now Summer Sports Clinics at Mount
Sunapee each year in January and July respectively.
Well, let’s talk about 2013. Lots of exciting events are coming
your way. There are many in the works, but I will tell you
what is happening right now. For starters, by the time you
read this article, we will have already had our first event of
the year, our second annual hunting trip, which is scheduled
for January 5 - 6 in Upstate New York. I am sure it will be
a great time had by all, with some nice game to take home.
There will be photos and a follow up article in the February
newsletter on this event.
Next on this list that is con-
firmed, our Sixth Annual Bil-
liard Tournament will be held at
Breakaway Billiards in Clinton,
MA, on May 18th and 19th.
This promises to be a very large
venue with many players, both
in chairs and able-bodied. The
tournament is sponsored, once
again, by the American Pool-
players Association (APA) along with Budweiser. The
APA will be promoting this on their website poolplayers.
com. I look forward to seeing all the players and our great
volunteers at this event. Don’t miss this one.
We have also met with Foxwoods for the possibility for a
future Bowling Tournament. Also, football is a definite
for the Spring, after interest was generated by a successful
football clinic (sponsored by CVS Caremark and New
England Patriots) which was held at Gillette Stadium in
November. Another guaranteed tournament is the US
National Trapshoot, June 21 - 23, 2013, to be held in
Scarborough, Maine. This is our first National PVA Trap-
shoot, which promises to be a good one.
In closing, there are many events coming up that are
in the planning stages. Please check the website fre-
quently, as these events come up quickly. As usual, I
will keep you informed through the Cord Word and the
website. I look forward to seeing you out there.
Just get out there and do it!!!
FOR SALE1999 Ford F150 Van
Very good condition. 39,000 miles. Rycon heavy- duty lift. 6-way seat allows a handicapped person to transfer to driver’s
seat. Hand controls, EZ lock, tie downs and remote starter. Well maintained. $9,500.
Call the NEPVA office at 508-660-1181
January 2013Cord Word
www.nepva.org 7
celebrationscontinued from page 1
DCR is dedicated to providing outdoor recre-ation opportunities in Massachusetts DCR Parks for visitors of all abilities. Accessibility to DCR Parks is achieved through site improvements, specialized adaptive recreation equipment and accessible recreation programs.
Adaptive SkatingGames on Ice!
Come join the fun at our Adaptive Skating-Games on Ice Program in Boston or Holyoke! Lace up a pair of conventional skates, use an ice sled, or try out your wheelchair on the ice. Propel yourself with small hockey sticks or be pushed around the rink by a friend.
Fitzpatrick Skating Rink in HolyokeSundays: 1:30PM 3:30PMJanuary 20 February 10March 10 Thursday: 2:30PM - 4:30PM February 21
For more information and to register call 413-545-5758 or email [email protected]
Cronin Skating Rink in RevereTuesdays: 11:30AM–1:30PMFebruary 19March 12April 2
For more information and to register call 617-626-1294 or email [email protected]
Ice Skating at the Asiaf Rink in BrocktonThis adaptive skating program takes place during public skating time on a separate sec-tion of the rink. Ice sleds and skate walkers are available!Call All Out Adventures to sign up: (413) 527-8980
Sundays: 1:30PM–3:30PMJanuary 13, 27February 10, 24
Mt. Tom State ReservationSnowshoeing, kicksledding, cross-country skiing, ice skating and winter explorations as conditions permit in Holyoke.Call All Out Adventures to sign up. (413) 527-8980
Saturdays: 11:00AM–3:00PMJanuary 19February 2February 16 and Wednesday: February 20
Wendell State ForestExplore the wilder side of winter in western Massachusetts. All activities, including snow-mobile rides as conditions permit.Call All Out Adventures to sign up.(413) 527-8980
Saturdays: 11:00AM–3:00PMJanuary 12 and 26February 9 and 23
DCR Universal Access Winter Fun! COME OUT AND PLAY!
Wayne Ross (center) and his friend Carolyn watch the ball go down the alley as Dick Spiz-zirri (rear) takes aim.
Long time affiliate member Fred Sisolak, one of three lefties on the team, takes his turn at bowling.
The NEPVA RollersThe NEPVA Bowling league, known
as the NEPVA Rollers, begins the day
after Labor Day and runs for 35 weeks.
There are currently ten members on
the team. We bowl at Westgate Lanes
in Brockton, MA every Tuesday from
12:30 pm until around 3 or sooner.
NEPVA sponsors part of the holiday
meal and the banquet at the end of the
year. Dues paid each week are used
to pay for the use of the lanes and for
awards given out at the banquet.
(Left to right) Wayne, Carolyn and Charles Schena await their turn to bowl.
Finally, none of this could happen without truly dedicated staff which includes the Kitchen staff and Housekeeping. They assist in setting things up, taking things down and clearing away the trash. Please know too that without the outstanding crew of volunteers who help shepherd patients to the dining room, take trays to those who can’t get to the dining room, assist in feeding those who cannot feed themselves, these holiday parties could not take place. We look forward to seeing you all in 2013.
Cord Word January 2013
www.nepva.org8
NEPVA Now Accepts Vehicle Donations
Please Donate
that Auto, Boat,
or RV that’s No
Longer Needed
to New England PVA.
NEPVA is currently
accepting vehicle donations from Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New
Hampshire. For further information, call Toll Free: (866) 2-GIVING or (866)
244-8464, or visit the NEPVA website: www.nepva.org
What are we studying?The Nerve Injury Unit, Dept of Neurology at Massachusetts
General Hospital in conjunction with the Department of
Defense, is studying Gulf War Illness in Veterans who served
from 1990 to 1991, in the Gulf War Region. We are studying
those with Gulf War Illness as well as those who don’t have
Gulf War Illness.
What does the study involve?Veterans who choose to participate will be asked a few per-
tinent questions pertaining to their present overall health as
well as undergo testing for small fiber poly-neuropathy. There
are two tests currently used for clinical diagnosis of this con-
dition, Autonomic Function Testing and Skin Biopsy Auto-
nomic function testing (AFT) consists of four separate tests
that are routinely used by physicians to diagnose peripheral
nerve conditions. Subjects are instructed to avoid food, nico-
tine, alcohol, caffeine, and specific medications, as is typical
for these types of tests. In this test, we monitor blood pres-
sure, heart rate, deep breathing and sweat production. You
will be lying down during most of the testing. Since small
fiber damage cannot be measured, the only way to diagnose
it is by biopsy. The standard way of detecting damage to
small-fibers is to count how many there are within a tissue
biopsy and to compare to expected values. The simplest way
to do this is using skin biopsies taken under local anesthesia.
The small nerve fibers penetrate into the skin so the skin can
be biopsied rather than a nerve itself. The skin biopsies are
turned into microscope slides that are specially labeled to
show the nerve fibers within. Their numbers are counted and
compared to normal values to determine if there is any nerve
damage. Degeneration or dysfunction of nerve endings in the
skin may be an indicator of a neuropathic pain condition.
The skin biopsy will allow us to study your nerve endings.
What are “small-diameter nerve fibers”?Nerve damage causes different symptoms depending on
which type of nerve fiber is damaged. Our laboratory is inter-
ested in damage to the small-diameter pain-sensing nerve
fibers. Damage to these small nerve fibers can cause chronic
pain and other symptoms. This kind of nerve damage is not
detected by standard nerve tests such as EMG/NCS (electro-
myography and nerve conduction study).
Who can participate?Any Veteran who served in the Gulf War Region from 1990-
1991 is eligible to participate in this study. For those who
choose to participate, Subjects will receive $100.00 upon
completion of the study or they may volunteer for the study.
We will also pay for parking costs at the Massachusetts Gen-
eral Hospital garage. This is NOT a treatment study. There
are no medications or new procedures being tested. We do
not stop or change any medications your doctor may have
prescribed.
Whom can I contact about the study?If you are interested in more information about this research
study, please call The Nerve Injury Unit at 617-726-9391
and talk to one of our study staff, or email us at NerveUnit@
partners.org
Participants needed for Gulf War Illness StudyThe Department of Neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital is recruiting
participants for a study on Gulf War Illness. The following information was sub-
mitted by Mass General Hospital.
January 2013Cord Word
www.nepva.org 9
New England VAMC News
MANCHESTER VA SCI-D VETERANS Support Group 1-17-2013
Come and meet our new staff member
to the SCI Team, Amy Snyder who is
an Adult Nurse Practitioner. She has
several years of nursing experience,
including: medical surgical, reha-
bilitation, and neurology. She recently
received her Master of Science degree in
Nursing from Massachusetts General
Hospital Institute of Health Professions.
She is certified by the American Acad-
emy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
You will now have the option of receiv-
ing your primary care with Amy Snyder
as well as receiving your yearly clinic
appointment with the SCI Doctor. We
anticipate that this new arrangement
will give you more open availability and
access to your primary care issues.
Thursday, January 17, 12:00-1:30pm
PLEASE CALL TO REGISTER by
MONDAY January 14th
(early registration and a return call if
you need to cancel appreciated!)
603-624-4366 Ext: 6434
Location:
Manchester VAMC, basement level
Directions from Main Entrance:
Elevator down to “B” level, LEFT, next
RIGHT, down hall, next LEFT at PT/
OT check-in area.
Submitted by Paul Redmond, MA,
MSW, LCSW
HOLIDAY PARTIES AT BROCKTON & WEST ROXBURY
VA staff, patients, volunteers and
NEPVA members enjoyed holiday cel-
ebrations at the VAMC in Brockton on
December 20th (top five photos) and at
the West Roxbury VAMC on Decem-
ber 19th (bottom three photos).
Cord Word January 2013
www.nepva.org10
The Department of Veterans Affairs
Vocational Rehabilitation and
Employment (VR&E) program helps
service-disabled Veterans succeed in
meaningful careers through individual-
ized services including college and other
training programs. For those currently
unable to return to work, VR&E also
provides services to assist Veterans to
live as independently as possible in their
homes and communities.
The President signed the Post-9/11
Veterans Educational Assistance
Improvements Act into law Jan. 4, 2011.
Effective Aug. 1, 2011, service-disabled
Veterans using the VR&E program
who are eligible for Post-9/11 GI Bill
benefits may now receive a monthly
allowance that is equal to or greater
than the housing allowance granted
under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. For most
Post-9/11 Veterans, the new monthly
allowance is significantly higher than
the regular Chapter 31 allowance that
other Veterans in VR&E will continue
to receive.
The new Post-9/11 rate for VR&E
is based on the basic allowance for
housing for a military member with
dependents in pay grade E-5 in the zip
code where the school or other training
facility is located. The rate is deter-
mined by logging on to https://www.
defensetravel.dod.mil/site/bahCalc.
cfm, entering the school’s zip code for
“Duty Zip Code”, selecting pay grade
“E-5”, and clicking “Calculate”. The
rate listed for an E-5 with dependents is
the new monthly Post-9/11 subsistence
allowance for full-time training under
Chapter 31.
Additionally, VA may no longer pay
Veterans receiving VR&E or educa-
tion benefits for the intervals between
school terms. For example, if the Fall
2012 semester ends Dec. 20, 2012 and
the Spring 2013 semester starts Jan.
15, 2013, a Veteran enrolled in each of
those terms will be paid only for the fall
and spring semesters. The Veteran will
not be paid from Dec. 21 to Jan. 14.
This will enable Veterans to conserve
their entitlement and use more of their
educational and VR&E benefits directly
for training purposes.
Service-disabled Veterans using Post-
9/11 GI Bill benefits may also be eli-
gible for VR&E benefits and should
take a closer look at what VR&E has
to offer. Besides tuition, fees, books,
supplies, and the monthly allowance,
VR&E also provides ongoing case
management, employment assistance,
and referrals for VA medical treatment
and services. VR&E has Vocational
Rehabilitation Counselors stationed at
fifty-six regional offices throughout the
country to help Veterans achieve educa-
tion and employment goals.
The VOW to Hire Heroes Act of 2011
also expanded certain VR&E benefits.
Veterans who previously completed a
program under Chapter 31 and have
exhausted state unemployment ben-
efits may qualify for an additional 12
month VR&E program. The law also
expanded VR&E’s special employer
incentive program which encourages
private sector employers to hire or train
Chapter 31 participants. VA can reim-
burse an employer for up to half of the
Veteran’s salary for the first 6 months.
For more information on VA benefits
related to the Vow to Hire Heroes
Act go to http://www.benefits.va.gov/
VOW/
VA has a jobs portal located at www.
VetSuccess.gov where Veterans can
post resumes, apply for jobs, and learn
useful tips about writing resumes and
preparing for job interviews. There are
more than 4,000 registered employers
who are specifically interested in hiring
Veterans. VA encourages all Veterans
looking for employment to create an
account and post their resume.
To apply or obtain more informa-tion about VR&E benefits:1. Call 1-800-827-1000
2. Go to www.va.gov and complete an
online application (VONAPP)
3. Complete VA Form 28-1900, Dis-
abled Veterans Application for
Vocational Rehabilitation (http://
www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/vba-28-
1900-are.pdf) and submit it to the
VA regional office in your state. If
there is more than one regional office
in your state, send it to the office in
your state that is closest to you. A
Regional Office listing can be found
at http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/ro/
rocontacts.htm, or
4. Visit www.vetsuccess.gov and http://
www.vba.va.gov/bln/vre/index.htm.
Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2011: How the Law Affects Chapter 31 Benefits
January 2013Cord Word
www.nepva.org 11
VA NEWSNINE MONTH DRAWING
DECEMBER WINNERS
Albert DevinSouthington, CT
$1000.00
John H. CarlsonFall River, MA
$600.00
Doreen DevinSouthington, CT
$300.00
Jane BehenskyGarnerville, NY
$100.00
Lorraine KellyWeymouth, MA
$100.00
Mrs. James W. QuinnConcord, NH
$100.00
Charles SchenaPlymouth, MA
$50.00
Angela DiTucciSomerville, MA
$50.00
Richard LockwoodSpringfield, MA
$50.00
Robert & CharlotteMitchell
Waterford, NY$50.00
VA, SSA and IRS Cut Red Tape for Veterans and SurvivorsNew Policy Eliminates Paperwork, Allows More VA Staff to Focus on Eliminating
Claims Backlog
The Department of Veterans Affairs announced today it is cutting red tape for Veterans by eliminat-
ing the need for them to complete an annual Eligibility Verification Report (EVR). VA will imple-
ment a new process for confirming eligibility for benefits, and staff that had been responsible for
processing the old form will instead focus on eliminating the compensation claims backlog.
Historically, beneficiaries have been required to complete an EVR each year to ensure their pension ben-
efits continued. Under the new initiative, VA will work with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the
Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify
continued eligibility for pension benefits.
“By working together, we have cut red tape for
Veterans and will help ensure these brave men
and women get the benefits they have earned
and deserve,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Eric K. Shinseki.
VA estimates it would have sent nearly 150,000
EVRs to beneficiaries in January 2013. Eliminat-
ing these annual reports reduces the burden on Veterans, their families, and survivors because they will
not have to return these routine reports to VA each year in order to avoid suspension of benefits. It also
allows VA to redirect more than 100 employees that usually process EVRs to work on eliminating the
claims backlog.
“Having already instituted an expedited process that enables wounded warriors to quickly access Social
Security disability benefits, we are proud to work with our federal partners on an automated process
that will make it much easier for qualified Veterans to maintain their VA benefits from year to year,” said
Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security.
“The IRS is taking new steps to provide critical data to help speed the benefits process for the nation’s
veterans and Veterans Affairs,” said Beth Tucker, IRS Deputy Commissioner for Operations Support.
“The IRS is pleased to be part of a partnership with VA and SSA that will provide needed data quickly
and effectively to move this effort forward.”
All beneficiaries currently receiving VA pension benefits will receive a letter from VA explaining these
changes and providing instructions on how to continue to submit their unreimbursed medical expenses.
More information about VA pension benefits is available at http://www.benefits.va.gov/pension and
other VA benefit programs on the joint Department of Defense—VA web portal eBenefits at www.
ebenefits.va.gov.
Eric K. ShinsekiSecretary of Veterans Affairs”
“ By working together, we
have cut red tape for Vet-
erans and will help ensure
these brave men and
women get the benefits
they have earned and
deserve.
Cord Word January 2013
www.nepva.org12
15F International Drive, East Granby, CT 06026 (877) WHEELS-3
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MOBILITY OPTIONS -Full Size Conversions-
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continued from page 5Service Officer’s Report
The following are general exclu-sions of the FMP:• Decisionsofwhetherornotmedi-
cal services are covered depend on
veteran’s service-connected disability
and condition.
• Supportingmedicalproofordocu-
mentation is warranted in determin-
ing if medical treatments or services
are covered under veterans service-
connected disabilities
Covered Benefits
Covered services must meet the stan-
dard of care through the following
organizations:
• FDA(USFoodandDrugAdminis-
tration)
• VeteranAffairs
• AMA(AmericanMedicalAssociation)
Covered benefits include:• Durablemedicalequipment(DME)
and prosthetic item(s)
• Outpatientcare
• Emergencyambulanceserviceswhen
specialized transportation includes
life sustaining equipment not avail-
able by other means of transportation
and is medically required for treating
covered condition(s)
• Hospitalization
• Urgentcareservices
• Skillednursingcare
• Prostheticitem(s)andDME(Dura-
ble Medical Equipment)
• Physicaltherapywhenunderthe
direct supervision of a licensed physi-
cian
• PrescriptiondrugsapprovedbyFDA
• Dentalservicesandhearingaids
The FMP office will not issue pre-
certification for medical services in
a foreign country. If veterans require
medical treatment for their VA rated
service-connected disability, they can
submit the expense bills with copies of
all documentation to the FMP office for
payment consideration.
Medical claims should always be sub-
mitted no later than two years from the
date of service received while traveling
in foreign countries. In cases of hos-
pitalization, ensure that the claim(s)
are submitted before two years of the
discharge date. Claims received after the
deadline can be denied on the grounds
of not being timely filed.
For more information on the Foreign
Medical Program, or for filing these
types of claims, please contact your
local Paralyzed Veterans of America rep-
resentative who will be more than happy
to assist you.
January 2013Cord Word
www.nepva.org 13
“(Ride-Away) knew what to do. Dave made all the phone calls to the VA... saving me $25,000!”
Steve poses here with his Ride-Away Sales Consultant, Dave Qualey, of the Londonderry, NH facility.
-Steve Hodgkins Malden, MA
It’s no wonder why Ride-Away customers remain so loyal — Superior Support! Ride-Away — America’s #1 provider of modified vehicles for people with disabilities.
• VetsMobileOps Program• VA assistance support• All vehicle trade-ins accepted• 24/7 Roadside assistance• QAP Certified factory trained technicians
888-Ride-Away (888-743-3292)
www.Ride-Away.com
President’s Reportcontinued from page 3
Trapeze
Hoya Lift with sling and batteries
Bath ChairPick up in Canton, MA
Manual Wheelchairnew, good condition,
for average size personAdjustable Shower Chair
Mini refrigerator-(about 3 ft. tall)Pick up in Fitchburg, MA
Power Wheelchair from the Scooter Store
3 Years old, in excellent conditionPick up in North Providence, RI
FREE TO MEMBER
for contact info on these items
CALL THE NEPVA OFFICE
tion and physical activity, behavior change, and focuses on lifestyle. The program
is designed to help Veterans meet their individual needs, and includes regular
follow-up and support. In 2012, more than 300 Veterans enrolled in the VA Cen-
tral Western Massachusetts MOVE! program and, together, lost more than 2,200
pounds. MOVE! classes are also held during the day at the VA Medical Center in
Leeds and at VA outpatient clinics in Springfield, Pittsfield, Greenfield, Worcester
and Fitchburg. There is no cost associated with these programs. Veterans must
be enrolled in VA healthcare to participate. Veterans who are not enrolled in VA
healthcare can call the VA’s Eligibility Office at (413) 582-3091 for information
on the application process. Veterans are also invited to log on to http://www.move.
va.gov/ for more information on the MOVE program. Patients interested may
contact their VA primary care provider, or Mary Rodowicz, registered dietitian, at
(413) 582-3180.
The Department of Veterans Affairs has awarded a grant totaling $340,535 to the
State of Massachusetts. The grant is for Federal assistance towards the cost of alter-
ations and installation of a new fire pump at the State Veterans Home in Holyoke,
MA.
As always, feel free to visit NEPVA’s web site (www.nepva.org), PVA’s web site
(www.pva.org), and the VA’s web site (www.va.gov) for up to date and recent news.
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns please contact our office or your
local NSO.
Cord Word January 2013
www.nepva.org14
MobilityAdaptive
Equipment
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If you can’t come to uswe’ll come to you
LIFETIMEWARRANTY(Call or visit us for
more information)
January 2013Cord Word
www.nepva.org 15
Update your hand controls!
...drive with both hands on the wheel
It’s so comfortable!
Just press the ring to accelerate. Brake with the left- or right-hand brake integrated in the dash-board.
Your knee area remains free of metal parts. You maintain all adjustments of your steering column and all airbags including the knee-airbag remain functional.
DARIOS adapts its sensitivity to the speed of your car.
DARIOS uses 2 sensors inside the steering wheel to be compliant with car manufacturers’ safety standards. It sends the information from the ring to its main controller under the dashboard using digital signals to be immune to electro-magnetic noise.
Digital Accelerator Ring optimized for speed
KEMPF is a NMEDA member.
Visit: www.kempf-usa.com to find comments from users accross the country or to request a quotation.
Call Toll-free: 1-888-4-KEMPF-US (453-6738) for a free DVD and free brochure.
DARIOS let’s you drive with both hands on the wheel
DARIOS is VA accepted.
KEMPF features nationwide free at-home pick-up and delivery and at-home service.
Users’ comments: “I feel like I’m in control of my vehicle again!”“The system appears a part of the original equipment of the vehicle.”
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Leominster, MA
Permit No. 17
New England PVA1600 Providence Highway, Suite 143Walpole, MA 02081
tel: 508 660-1181 800 660-1181fax: 508 668-9412
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:30pm
HAPPY NEW YEAR
On December 20, the crew from All Pro Productions, Inc. (NEPVA’s fundraiser) paid the chap-ter office a visit bringing a holiday gift of Harry & David goodies. Shown left to right: Fran Burke, Maurice Rondeau, Debra Freed, former New England Patriot and All Pro owner Fred Smerlas, Judy Goldstein, and John Dumas.