Iron Mountain VA Medical Center

04/30/2026

04/29/2026

During Patient Experience Week, we asked some of our staff what Veteran experience means to them. Jill and Beata are our two patient advocates, helping Veterans navigate the VA. Jill came to the VA after a long, accomplished career as a clinical social worker. She’s grounded, deeply knowledgeable, and brings a steady hand to even the most complex cases. What sets Jill apart isn’t just her expertise, it’s her unwavering commitment to those who have served. “I love serving Veterans,” she says. “I was lucky enough to be born in a free society. Every day, I see the cost of that freedom, and I’m proud to be in a position to make a difference for the people who made it possible.”
Next to Jill, you’ll find Beata—a force of optimism and energy. She started her career as a respiratory therapist. When she became a patient advocate, Beata brought her signature “can do” spirit with her, quickly becoming not just a Veteran favorite, but a favorite among staff as well. Her work is about gratitude and giving back. “As a first-generation American, I really see the beauty of this country,” she says. “I value the freedoms our Veterans fought for. Every day I’m thankful I get to come here, be a part of this team, and support such a noble mission.”
What does Veteran Experience mean to us? It’s more than a phrase. It’s the heart of our work. We guide Veterans through the maze that is the VA—explaining benefits, clarifying treatment plans, and making sure no one gets lost or left behind. We’re problem-solvers, listeners, and sometimes, translators between Veterans and staff. When there’s confusion, we clear it up. When there’s frustration, we try to turn it into understanding. We keep track of the feedback—good and bad—so we can keep making things better.
But really, it comes down to this: Veterans have already done the hard work. Our job is to make sure the system works for them, not the other way around. We want every Veteran to feel respected, supported, and understood. That’s what Veteran Experience means to us—and it’s what guides us, every single day.
We’re proud to be a team, and even prouder to serve those who have served.

04/29/2026

The Iron Mountain VA will host a monthly social for Veterans and caregivers Wednesday May 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Room 2376 at the Iron Mountain VA. Meet and socialize with other Veterans and caregivers. You do not need to be enrolled in the Caregiver Support Program to attend. For more information, call Caregiver Support Program at 906-774-3300, ext. 32705.

04/29/2026

Today, staff members wore teal and/or denim in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. Teal is the nationally recognized color for sexual assault awareness. The Denim Day campaign started in the 1990s when a r**e conviction was overturned because the Italian Supreme Court deemed the female experiencer’s pants were too tight, which implied consent. Following the reversal, the women in the Italian Parliament came to work wearing jeans in solidarity with the female victim. Since then, Denim Day has grown into a global movement — including here in the U.S. — where people wear denim to show support for survivors and raise awareness.

At the VA, we are committed to supporting survivors of military sexual trauma (MST)—which includes sexual assault or threatening sexual harassment experienced during military service. We work every day to raise awareness and provide resources for those affected. If you or someone you know would like to learn more about MST services, please reach out to the OGJVAMC Military Sexual Trauma/Intimate Partner Violence Coordinator at ext. 32531. You are not alone, and support is available.

04/29/2026

04/28/2026

During Patient Experience Week, we asked some of our staff what Veteran experience means to them. Jackie McCarthy is a registered nurse (RN) in Mental Health. As a mental health RN at the OGJVAMC, Veteran experience isn’t just something I consider – it’s at the heart of everything I do. Every interaction, every assessment, and every moment of care is shaped by the understanding that our Veterans carry stories, sacrifices and strengths that deserve to be seen and honored.
My perspective is deeply personal. My husband, Kory, is an OIF Veteran, having served with the 101st Airborne Division, as well as the Army National Guard after his active-duty time. He has always been my inspiration for wanting to work at VA with the hope that I could make a difference for even just one Veteran the way multiple people have made a difference for him as a patient here at the OGJVAMC.
As the spouse of an OIF Veteran, I’ve witnessed firsthand the lasting impact of service – both the visible and the unseen. That connection fuels my commitment to show up each day with empathy, respect, and a genuine desire to make a difference.
Caring for those who have served our country is more than a job to me – it’s a responsibility and a privilege. Giving my time, listening with intention, and providing outstanding nursing care is my way of giving back to those who have given so much.

04/28/2026

Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month is a time to learn about the support and resources VA has for military sexual trauma (MST) survivors.

Year-round, VA helps MST survivors of all backgrounds.
Learn more: https://mentalhealth.va.gov/SAAPM

04/27/2026

During Patient Experience Week, we asked some of our staff what Veteran experience means to them. Dr. A.J. O’Sickey is a clinical psychologist with a dedicated focus on geriatric mental health, Dr. O’Sickey has had the privilege of working alongside older Veterans here at Oscar G. Johnson VAMC to help them navigate the unique challenges they face in later life.
Each Veteran I serve has a unique story that guides their experience at the VA, and I recognize that even my small role can create positive ripple effects throughout their care. To me, Veteran Experience means more than just addressing clinical needs—it’s about fostering connections, honoring individual histories, and creating spaces where Veterans feel respected and engaged.
Every day, I look for ways to incorporate this into my work, whether I’m meeting with a Veteran one-on-one, or leading the cribbage and reminiscence groups in our Community Living Center (CLC). Group activities not only provide recreation and socialization but also give Veterans a voice to share their memories and build meaningful relationships with each other and staff. By listening carefully and adapting care to each individual’s preferences, I aim to ensure that every interaction supports their dignity and well-being. Ultimately, I strive to make their time at the VA not just comfortable, but personally significant.

04/27/2026

Caring and confidential support for Veterans is available 24/7. No matter what you’re going through, you can reach the Veterans Crisis Line by call, chat, or text.

04/27/2026

Preventing falls involves a combination of personal habits, home safety measures, and regular health care. By taking proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling and help maintain your independence and quality of life. Access valuable resources at https://www.cdc.gov/steadi/patient-resources/index.html.

04/26/2026

We are proud to share the journey of Logan Edinger, an Army Veteran who has experienced success through OGJVAMC’s Whole Health program! Through the Whole Health approach, he no longer needs nerve ablations and has found renewed hope and wellness. Watch and be inspired by Logan’s journey towards better health and well-being.

Whole Health Veteran Testimonial 1

04/24/2026

VA Golden Age Games began in 1985, long before “senior athletics” was a mainstream idea. VA recognized that aging Veterans needed more than medical care. They also needed motivation, goals, and a sense of connection. So, the Games were born with just a few hundred competitors.
Today, they’ve grown into a major event where thousands of athletes and supporters from across the country come to take part. It is a living tribute to the fact that service continues after age 50 and that strength can last a lifetime.

The Veterans Health Administration is marking 80 years of supporting Veterans of all ages and abilities just like the Golden Age Game athletes. Learn more.

https://department.va.gov/veteran-sports/