As part of our ongoing Project 72,000 Square Miles program, Chapter President and National Director Brad Carlson, Chapter Vice President Mike Moran, and I traveled on December 8-9 to the White River Junction VA Medical Center in Vermont for a full-day visit with their Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Service Team. The experience was not only informative but deeply encouraging.
Our visit began with a warm welcome from the SCI leadership team, including the Director, physicians, nursing staff, recreational therapists, and social workers who together form the backbone of the unit’s patient-centered model of care. Their commitment to veterans living with spinal cord injuries was immediately evident – not just in their clinical expertise, but in their collaborative approach and genuine passion for service. Throughout the morning, we engaged in meaningful discussions about the current strengths of the program, as well as key updates and highlights from the past year. Staff shared improvements in care coordination, advancements in adaptive sports and recreational therapy, enhanced telehealth capabilities for rural communities, and renewed focus on mental health and community reintegration. We were impressed by the team’s ability to balance innovation with the personalized attention that SCI veterans deserve.
Their commitment to veterans living with spinal cord injuries was immediately evident – not just in their clinical expertise, but in their collaborative approach and genuine passion for service.
A guided tour of the newly renovated SCI facilities showcased impressive upgrades designed with accessibility and dignity at the forefront. From modernized treatment rooms to thoughtfully designed patient spaces, the renovations clearly reflect a forward-thinking commitment to quality care. Along the way, we had the opportunity to meet additional staff, patients, and Chapter members there who embody the spirit of the White River Junction community – welcoming, knowledgeable, and dedicated.
This visit reaffirmed the importance of our Chapter’s ongoing engagement across the region. As we work to elevate the voices and needs of SCI veterans across New England’s 72,000 square miles, partnerships with teams like White River Junction’s are essential. Their openness, professionalism, and genuine enthusiasm made this visit both productive and uplifting. We extend our sincere gratitude to the entire SCI team at White River Junction VA for their hospitality and for their unwavering commitment to veterans. We look forward to continued collaboration in the year ahead as we strengthen services, advocate for improvements, and support the highest possible quality of life for every veteran we are so honored to serve.
Get Involved