For a variety of reasons, veterans homes just don’t typically seem to warm the hearts of those not directly involved. But not this week.
Let’s give vets a fighting chance
By
Kimberly Marselas
Aug 25, 2021
As with Afghanistan, some veterans homes have collapsed under the weight of a crisis, despite the backing of the U.S. government.
Lining up for the great hand-hygiene escape
By
Kimberly Marselas
Jun 30, 2021
When’s the last time your employees lined up during lunch breaks for voluntary training? Proving again that healthcare workers are among the world’s most resourceful, a team from the Central Texas...
Scattering seeds
By
Gary Tetz
Nov 15, 2018
It was my birthday yesterday — the same day I found out that Fernald, a World War II veteran and one of the wisest, bravest and most adorable people I’ve ever known, had passed away.
Heroes bring us together
By
Gary Tetz
Oct 18, 2018
Ever tempted to lose your faith in the essential goodness of human nature? Worried that our country is irreparably divided? A flight across the country with a group of iconic war heroes from long-term...
Actively honoring those who served
By
Jacqueline Vance, RNC, CDONA/LTC
May 29, 2018
As I reflect on Memorial Day and all those who have bravely put their lives on the line for our freedom, I think of the veterans who reside in our facilities, and how we shouldn’t consider them veterans...
Love is love
By
Gary Tetz
Feb 09, 2017
I don’t need hair. That’s my big takeaway from spending a morning with wise and wonderful Fernald recently. It’s not what I wear, or having a scalp as arid and vegetation-free as Death...
Journey of Heroes deserves showing, not telling
By
Gary Tetz
Dec 15, 2016
Every year about this time, I tell you eagerly and often weepily about “The Trip.” The one where 12 veterans, many of them from World War II and living in long-term care, get to hop on a plane...
Feeling cynical? Find a veteran
By
Gary Tetz
Oct 29, 2014
Feeling a little cynical about life or country? Spend a day with a few World War II veterans on the National Mall. I guarantee a complete recovery, or your money back.
Lines blur on long-term care for vets, non-vets
By
Tim Mullaney
May 29, 2013
Flags are flown at half-mast only until noon on Memorial Day. I’m guessing this is common knowledge that somehow escaped me until this year. There’s some nice symbolism here. First, the flag...