Vet info is honored to receive a $2000 grant from Bass Pro. The funds will be used to further our cause of improving the quality of life of military veterans.
Bass Pro has been instrumental in our success and ability to serve the Military Veteran community. We are a grassroots organization with no employees. Support from Bass Pro and other organizations who want to serve military is truly inspiring and appreciated.
In 2022, Bass Pro Miami, Tampa, and Ft. Myers help us with providing t-shirts for Veterans living in retirement homes. We provided over 400 gift packages that included shirts, puzzle books, hygiene supplies, and a holiday card written by high school students.
One of Vet Info’s programs is kayaking. Sometimes we fish too. Bass Pro helped us with the purchase of the Kayaks. We are very grateful for the two Old Towne PDL 120s and the four Ascend 12ts. This photo was taken at the Miami Lakes Veteran’s Day Parade 2023.
The Veteran below never thought he could ever go and kayak. He suffers from many issues onset from Agent Orange when he served as a Marine in Vietnam. He found kayaking to be fun and easy to do and has even thought of buying his own kayak.
Vet Info participated in the Suicide Awareness Month event at the William “Bill” Kling Community Outpatient Clinic with the Miami VA. Many community organizations/non-profits participated to share how we all support our hero military veterans. Dr. Shereef Elnahal, Under Secretary for Health at the Department of Veterans Affairs spoke at the event and conveyed the importance of the need for the community and the VA to unite and combat the epidemic of suicides amongst veterans.
Dr. Elnahal, Under Secretary for Health at the Department of Veteran Affairs was kind enough to give us a plug about our bracelet at 2:36. “No Veteran Left Behind”
On the 24th of August 2023 the City of Doral Florida celebrated its 20th Birthday. Vet Info Founder Bill Watts was one of the Honored for his contributions in helping Doral move from being an Unincorporated area in Miami Dade County to a City where you can Live, Work, Play and Learn.
For years I have been a victim of being overweight and each visit to my Primary Care Provider (PCP) and the MOVE Clinic of the VA Healthcare system they always tell me I need to lose weight and provide me with information to look at a better way to eat. So in this post I am providing you with information on Carbs and and Gluten-Free Nutrition Therapy. This gives you great examples of low carb foods and foods to avoid. I hope you find this information helpful. Until next time your friendly neighborhood Capt. Bill
In an effort to add to quality of life of the Veterans living in South Florida, Vet Info donated 10 guitars to the Music Therapy Program. Some of the guitars were placed in wards around the VA and the rest will be used in indivual therapy classes and given to Veterans who meet certain criteria.
On June 15th, 2023 Vet Info Hosted the Southern Command Recreational Group along with Veterans, Active Duty and their family members for a fun day in the sun. Kayaking and fishing in the City of Doral Glades Park. The morning started out with coffee and breakfast items. Then the Veterans had the option of jumping in a kayak, practice casting in the casting stati0n, or catching some fish at the two areas set up specifically for them. A great time was had by all which finished with a lunch that was delivered by the Vice-Mayor of Doral Rafael Pineyro. We would like to Thank Bass Pro Shops / Starbucks / La Fontana for the great pizza.
Information provided by Dr. Gregory Holt – Lung Cancer Kilts
A pulmonary nodule is that dreaded “spot” seen on a Chest CT scan and could mean anything from an old scar to lung cancer. They are typically less than 3 cm in diameter (about 1 1/4th inches). Spots greater than 3cm (1 1/4th inch) are considered masses and are included in the category of findings that require urgent evaluation.
Nodules are characterized based on how they look. Ground Glass Opacities, nicknamed GGOs, are hazy structures with borders that are difficult to define. Solid nodules are firm structures with clear borders. Semi-solid nodules have characteristics of both solid and GGOs. Completely calcified nodules are not worrisome. Calcified nodules are extremely dense and mean the nodule has been there so long, they’ve basically turned to stone. It is difficult to make a final diagnosis on the basis of the Chest CT alone and consultation with a pulmonologist (doctor who specializes in lungs) can help.
Water activities can be incredibly effective in reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Here are some ways you can incorporate water activities into your routine to help reduce stress:
Swimming: Take a dip in a pool, lake, or ocean and enjoy the soothing and refreshing sensation of water. Swimming is a low-impact exercise that engages your entire body and releases endorphins, which are known as “feel-good” hormones. The rhythmic movements and the weightlessness of being in the water can help alleviate stress and tension.
“Water is the driving force of all nature”
Leonardo Da Vinci
Water aerobics: Join a water aerobics class or perform water-based exercises on your own. Water aerobics combines cardiovascular exercise with resistance training, offering a gentle yet effective workout. The buoyancy of water reduces the impact on your joints, making it a suitable option for individuals with mobility issues or joint pain.
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP): SUP involves standing on a wide board and using a paddle to propel yourself through the water. It offers a full-body workout while allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of being on the water. SUP requires focus and balance, which can help shift your attention away from stressors and promote a sense of calm.
Fishing: As mentioned earlier, fishing can be a relaxing and stress-reducing activity. Whether you’re casting from the shore, a boat, or a dock, the act of fishing can be meditative and provide an opportunity to connect with nature. The rhythmic casting and reeling, combined with the peacefulness of the water, can help calm the mind and reduce stress.
Beach walks: Walking along the shoreline of a beach is a simple yet effective way to reduce stress. The combination of fresh air, soothing sounds of waves, and the sensation of sand beneath your feet can create a calming environment. Take your time, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in the present moment as you stroll along the water’s edge.
Water meditation or relaxation exercises: Find a quiet spot near the water and engage in meditation or relaxation exercises. Focus on your breath and the sounds of the water, allowing yourself to let go of tension and stress. You can also practice deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery to further enhance the relaxation experience.
Be mindful of your swimming abilities, wear appropriate safety gear, and follow any rules or regulations set for the specific activity and location.
Fishing offers numerous health benefits and provides an opportunity to connect with nature, find peace, and enjoy the water. Here are some of the key health benefits associated with fishing:
Stress reduction: Fishing provides a tranquil and serene environment that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. The calmness of the water, the sound of nature, and the rhythmic casting and reeling can all contribute to a sense of peace and well-being.
Physical exercise: Fishing involves various physical activities that can contribute to improved fitness. Walking or hiking to fishing spots, casting, reeling, and landing fish all require physical effort, which can help improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and enhance coordination.
Vitamin D absorption: Spending time outdoors while fishing exposes you to sunlight, which is a natural source of vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for maintaining healthy bones, regulating immune function, and supporting overall well-being.
Mental well-being: Engaging in outdoor activities like fishing can have positive effects on mental health. It offers a break from daily routines, allows for contemplation and mindfulness, and helps reduce anxiety and depression. Being in nature has been shown to improve mood, increase creativity, and boost cognitive function.
Social interaction: Fishing can be a social activity, providing opportunities to spend time with family and friends. Sharing the fishing experience with loved ones promotes bonding, strengthens relationships, and enhances social connections, all of which are important for mental and emotional well-being.
Cognitive stimulation: Fishing requires focus, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Observing fish behavior, assessing weather conditions, and selecting the right bait and techniques all engage the brain and can contribute to cognitive stimulation and improved mental acuity.
Connection with nature: Fishing allows you to immerse yourself in nature, whether it’s a river, lake, or ocean. Spending time in natural surroundings has been linked to reduced stress, improved mood, increased happiness, and an overall sense of well-being. It also provides an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the natural world and develop a deeper connection with the environment.
Patience and mindfulness: Fishing often requires patience, as waiting for a bite can be a slow process. This aspect of fishing can teach you the value of patience, mindfulness, and being present in the moment. Learning to appreciate the small joys of fishing, such as the sound of water or the beauty of the surroundings, can help cultivate a more mindful and peaceful mindset.
Remember to check and adhere to local fishing regulations, practice responsible fishing practices, and prioritize the safety and well-being of yourself and the aquatic ecosystem while enjoying this recreational activity.
