Caution: Triggers

[broncovet]

I met this Vet Wednesday, waiting on physical therapy. He said he was homeless, living in his car. He also said that he broke his back in the Navy, and the Navy discharged him as soon as the cast was off, with no physical therapy. Apparently the back fracture came back with a venegance, causing pain, some years later.

Now, the Vet tells me the VA has told him he was awarded 40% in 1989, and put the money "in an account in his name" since it sounds like the VA did not have his address. When he recently applied for benefits, he found about the award, and asked his money be released. You guessed it..he got the run around, with each Va employee suggesting "someone else" can take care of that. This "run around" has lasted at least 6 months, with this Veteran living in his car.

I can probably get a hold of this Vet, and am asking you on how to advize this guy.

The Veteran had told me that he was considering taking his life...and I felt he was sincere and saw the desperation in his face.

When I got to PT, I advised the PT that the man was suicidal. The PT reported this to his boss, who reported it to someone else. These VA big shots came over and asked me about it. I pointed at the man, and told them he told me he was suicidal. Soon, a VA person came and shook his hand, and "led him out of PT". I assumed they were taking him to mental health where he would be treated for suicidal ideations.

The PT suggested I saved the mans life, because it was pretty obvious he was in dire need of mental health services, by reporting his SI. I cant get the man out of my head, and I feel compelled to help him. Part of the reason for this is that I was just like him, about 5 years ago....desperate and suicidal.