cropped-Vet-Info-Header-1-1.png

Don’t Wait & Reach Out Campaign

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”

City of Doral 20th Year Anniversary

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.

ARE YOU EATING HEALTHY

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

FODMAPs-Checklist-and-Gluten-Free-Nutrition-Therapy Download

Vet Info along with the City of Doral Host Southern Command Family Day

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.

Vet Info / Southern Command Rec Center Military Family Day

Lung Cancer Screening: What is a Nodule?

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.

Lung Cancer Screening: What is a Low Dose Chest CT?

Marked Improvement in Lung Cancer Mortality!

The Benefits of Fishing

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.

Tampa VA Hospital Health Fair

On April 26th the VISN8 LPOP Team were part of the the Tampa VA Hosptial Health fair. Vet Info strongly support and Advocates for LPOP and their work to help decrease the number of Veterans who die from lung cancer by providing yearly screening for those at risk. For more information please contact
visn8lpop@va.gov
and you can find more information at myhealth.va.gov

VET INFO and Bass Pro Shops featured in the April 2023 Doral Family Journal

On March 8th Mayor Christi Fraga and the City Council honored Vet Info Inc. and Bass Pro Shops Miami in the Doral Government Center. Vet Info received the Key to the City for their instrumental role in supporting those who have bravely served in the United States Military and their families through Events and Programs. Bass Pro Shops was also honored with a special Proclamation for their many efforts that provide resources to the Veterans to improve quality of life, and for giving back to the community. Both organizations have collaborated regularly with the City of Doral to address the needs of the Veterans and Active Duty Service Members at Southern Command.

Vet Info receives the Key to the City of Doral Florida

Vet Info Jr. Ambass. receive recognition for voluteering to help our Veterans

Bass Pro Shops Proclamation naming March 8th as Bass Pro Shops Miami Day 2023

Each Year the City of Doral hold a Military Family Day to Honor our Veterans and Active Duty Personnel.

Mark Pinilla President of Vet Info gives a short Speech

When the Founders of Vet Info Created the organization they thought long and hard about who to represent. Numerous larger Veteran Non-Profits focus on 9/11 forward, but Vet Info is proud to focus on all Living Veterans that served from World War II to present day.
VET INFO
BASS PRO SHOPS
CITY OF DORAL

If you would like to Donate to help us bring a better quality of life to the Veterans please click HERE

Team Vet Info / VISN8 LPOP Fight for Air Climb Tampa

Vet Info teamed up with VISN8 LPOP-Tampa to honor our Veterans who lost the fight or continue to fight with lung-related issues. The American Lung Association held its annual Fight for Air Climb at the Bank of America Building in Downtown Tampa.

This climb consisted of 42 stories, equal to 914 steps which all team members who could participate completed in under 27 minutes. Team Vet Info / VISN8 LPOP raised $1,145.00 for this worthy cause, met numerous Veterans during the event, and spread the word about Lung Cancer Screening and Research! Well over One Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars was raised during the day-long event, with ages ranging from 10 years old to 80 years old facing the challenge.

The Stars of the show were the local firefighters who donned full safety gear weighing over 90 pounds and raced to the finish line on the 42nd floor.
No Veteran Left Behind!

Veteran Appreciation Dinner

Vet Info sat down to have dinner with a Veterans group of 31 members out of Tampa, Florida in honor and appreciation for their sacrifice to our country.

At the event, we were able to fellowship and break bread. We heard stories of some of their experiences while we played games like chess, checkers, and cards.

We are grateful for the time we spent together and in hope of having many more activities together.