The Biloxi BreezeFall 2020 Newsletter

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A Publication of the Gulf Coast Blind Rehabilitation CenterGulf Coast Veterans Health Care System

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Table of ContentsMission Statement.........................................................................2Produced by..................................................................................3Comments or Subscriptions...........................................................2Vision Statement, Values, Characteristics.....................................3Message from the Chief.................................................................4New Low Vision Optometrist..........................................................6MiniGuide Mobility Aid...................................................................5Manual Skills Update.....................................................................8Pellet Grills..................................................................................11Lighting........................................................................................12Silencing Unknown Callers..........................................................13Continue your Learning Remotely: Weekly Session Round-Up. .14Blind Golf.....................................................................................16Practicing Self Care……..............................................................17Advance Directives…………………………………………………..19Provider Corner: COVID 19.........................................................21Healthy Holiday Tips....................................................................22Chaplain's Thoughts....................................................................23BROS Bulletin Board...................................................................26COVID-19: Risks and Challenges for the Visually Impaired .......27VIST Support Groups..................................................................28Know Your VIST Coordinator......................................................29

Mission StatementThe mission of Blind Rehabilitation is to provide instruction to Veterans and military personnel who are blind or visually impaired. The goal is to promote independence, self-care, and improve the overall quality of life.

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Produced ByThe Biloxi Breeze is a publication of the Gulf Coast Blind Rehabilitation Center (GCBRC).

Contents are not necessarily the official views of or endorsed by the U.S. Government or Department of Veterans Affairs.

Links may take you outside of the Department of Veterans Affairs website. VA does not endorse and is not responsible for the content of the linked websites.

Comments or SubscriptionsContact us to submit address or email changes or comments. You can also contact us to unsubscribe from The Biloxi Breeze.

Gulf Coast BRC400 Veterans Avenue (124)Biloxi, MS 35931228-385-6777

For conservation and publication purposes, notify

GCBRC if you are able and willing to receive an email version of The Biloxi Breeze. Call (228) 385-6777 or send an email to: debra.gilley@va.gov.

Gulf Coast Blind Rehabilitation Center:Vision StatementTo help Veterans and their families live more fulfilled and productive lives by providing the best rehabilitation experience possible. Veterans receive world class rehabilitation with access to the latest technology and proven techniques for living with vision loss surrounded by highly trained, licensed and certified staff in a state-of-the-art program.

Values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, Excellence Characteristics: “I Aced It”Integrated, Attentive, Compassionate, Encouraging,

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Diligent, Independent, Trustworthy

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Message from the Chief:

March 2020 was the last time we had inpatients at the Gulf Coast Blind Rehabilitation Center (GCBRC). Since discharging our Veterans home, our specialists have worked hard to move our program into the virtual world. We now provide 17 instructional groups a week on a variety of topics as well as 1:1 training either by telephone or virtually. We have had positive feedback not only on the training itself but on the comradery that has formed between the Veterans that are in the groups. This has been an exciting time as we have worked to think in new ways to deliver services to you, our Veterans, and rise to the

challenges that COVID19 has presented us.

In October, we started with a group of five local Veterans that come in to the GCBRC for a full-time outpatient program. We screen them and the staff every morning and, so far, everything has been going very smoothly. The Veterans say that they are enjoying the program and finish up next week.

We currently do not know when we will begin inpatient services again. I know that everyone is looking forward to the day when we do.

Until we are together again, stay safe, make good choices, and let us know if you need anything.

Please keep in touch.

Debra Gilley, M.Ed., COMS, CLVT Chief, Gulf Coast Blind Rehabilitation Center

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New Low Vision OptometristDr. Tracy L. M. Ammann was born in Munich, Bavaria, Germany and grew up in Sheridan, Wyoming. She is a 1993 graduate of Pacific University College of Optometry. Tracy received the Army Health Professional Scholarship during her first year of optometry school. Upon graduation, she began her service in Bad Kreuznach, Germany, with the 1st Armored Division. Her service took her to Bosnia with Operation Joint Endeavor and then to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. She was in private practice in Riverton, Wyoming for 15 years before taking the Neuro-Optometry position at the Intrepid Spirit at Fort Campbell in 2014. Dr. Ammann has been practicing neuro-optometric rehabilitation for 16 years and is very passionate about treating the patient as a

whole person, not just a pair of eyes on a stick.

She is now very excited about her new adventure at the Gulf Coast Blind Rehabilitation Center at the Gulf Coast Veteran’s Health Care System in Biloxi, MS. Low Vision and Blind Rehab have intrigued her since hearing Dr. Tracy Williams speak at the Academy Meeting in Denver, CO. She drove to Illinois to learn everything she could, in three intense days, from him and his exceptional staff. Dr. Ammann then took that knowledge back to Fremont Vision Clinic in Wyoming and put it into practice. Her patients benefited greatly from the new skill set, and she appreciated the confidence to be able to meet the needs of her low vision patients. She looks forward to continuing that tradition in Biloxi.

Dr. Ammann is also passionate about educating colleagues, as well as other

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disciplines, on brain injury rehabilitation and the impact of the visual system in the neuro-rehabilitation equation. Speaking venues have included the American Academy of Optometry, the Armed Forces Optometric Association, and the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association in addition to occupational and physical therapy practices.

She is also passionate about continuing to educate herself. Dr. Ammann is currently working on her Graduate Certificate in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine from the University of Western States in Portland, Oregon.

Dr. Tracy enjoys travel and has been fortunate to have serve on medical mission trips in southern Mexico, as well as Tanzania, Africa. She shares her life with her husband, Thomas, and their two children, Bridger, age 23 and Braidy, age 19.

We welcome Dr. Tracy to the GCBRC!

MiniGuide:Mobility AidMegan Porostovsky, COMSCertified O&M Specialist

Top view of miniguide

Miniguide with accessories

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Dimensions:  Size: 3” long, 1.5” wide by

0.9” thick (size of a match box)

Battery: CR123A 3 Volt (included with Miniguide)

Changing Settings: The following are the basic settings of the Miniguide 4-meter range  2-meter range 1-meter range Half meter ranges 8-meter rangeWhat does it do? It is designed to provide

information to a traveler that is blind and used with other aids, like the long white cane or guide dog. The device should only be used in safe and familiar environments. The mini guide allows the individual

to detect objects in its expected range. 

Uses ultrasonic echolocation to detect objects. The device vibrates to indicate the distance to objects-the faster the vibration rates the nearer the object. 

Has a 5-distance setting ranging from half a meter to 8 meters. 

An audible beep output for use with an earpiece can accompany the vibrator or be used independently. 

Press the red single large button once to turn on the device. 

The miniguide is great to use to detect obstacles or objects long before they are encountered. Examples:  Keeping appropriate

distance behind someone  Scanning for head height

obstacles when used with the long cane or guide dog

Finding or counting doorways/ shop entrances

Avoiding obstacles prior to touching them with the long cane

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Manual Skills UpdateBelinda Taylor, M.Ed., CLVT, CVRT, COMS, Manual Skills

Howdy from Manual Skills! During this time without Veterans in-house, the Manual Skill staff have been cleaning the shop, coming up with new project ideas and missing all of you. In case you did not know, the GCBRC staff have been teaching online classes and weekly groups. As you probably know, I love books! If you enjoy books, catch my Book Talk Group each Monday at 10:00 a.m. Central Time. To register for group classes, contact Debra Gilley at 251-289-0792. You only register once, then you can attend any of the classes. I hope you have a chance to hop in on one of our groups (more information on them to follow in the newsletter).

Over the last few months, we have been working on several new project ideas to try out with Veterans when we

resume our regular in-person classes. A favorite craft medium of mine is clay. I really like all the craft options available when working with polymer clay, pottery clay or epoxy clay. These clays allow the crafter to create a variety of different items such as, bracelets, pendants, earrings and small sculptures. Another favorite is the use of resin embed with various objects and poured into a bracelet or other small molds. Creating with resin is fun and turns out some fantastic pieces great for gifts. Jean and I continue to explore a variety of options to offer our Veterans. You never know what we will come up with next.

Fun Fact: The BRC at the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System in Biloxi opened its doors in September 2011. So, we just

had our 9th birthday!

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A small bluebird perched on a bluebird box.

One of the favorite projects over in the woodshop is making bluebird boxes. Bluebirds are beautiful and beneficial birds. There are three species of bluebirds, the Eastern, Western and Mountain. The bluebirds we typically see in the south are the Eastern Bluebird. In the south, bluebirds are year-round residents. Bluebirds will migrate from the north as temperatures change to cold weather. This is one of the reasons more bluebirds are seen in the lower states during the winter months. Florida and Texas usually have large numbers during these periods of cold weather.

Typically, in January, the male will select an area claiming it as his own territory. During this time, nesting and mating starts taking place. The male will sing softly in hopes of attracting a female. The male bird will bring various items to the designated nest site and the female will weave the items into a nest. Nesting may take place from January through June.

Eastern bluebirds often will have two to three broods a year. The female will lay only one egg a day until the clutch is completed. Typically, there will be from 2-7 eggs in a clutch. Incubation lasts approximately 17 to 24 days. The male and female will bring food for the young hatchlings until they leave the nest. The new hatchlings will normally stay in the nest for about 17 days.

Providing sources for bluebirds to raise a family is an entertaining and beneficial way

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to help your home area. One way we can help increase the bluebird population is to build houses/boxes for them and by providing preferred foods and clean water. Housing, food, water and preferred environments will entice the birds to stay and raise families. Bluebirds are picky when it comes to their living areas. Boxes should be built to specifications determined to be preferred by bluebirds. Providing preferred nesting, food sources and environments with help ensure success in increasing the bluebird populations.

If you are interested in learning more about bluebirds, during your next GCBRC program let your Manual Skills specialist know of your interest. The staff will provide an opportunity for you to learn more about these fascinating and helpful birds. We will also provide the materials for you to build a bluebird house/box that you

may take home and use to entice a family of bluebirds to spend a few months on your property.

If you would like to learn more about bluebirds, I have included several informative website links. I hope you enjoy the information.

Sources of Information:

https://abcbirds.org/bird/eastern-bluebird/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI4supsfLy6gIViZWzCh3OcwLYEAAYAyAAEgKKIfD_BwEhttps://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Eastern_Bluebird/lifehistory

https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Eastern_Bluebird/id

https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/eastern-bluebird

Happy birding and crafting,Belinda and Jean

Pellet Grills 11

Brandon Haile, M.A., CVRTLiving Skills Specialist

Preparing meals outdoors is something Americans love to do. Grilling is the most popular way to prepare food outside. Many types of grills are available. Charcoal, wood, and gas grills are wonderful devices for preparing food. A different type of grill is becoming more popular. It is called a pellet grill or pellet smoker.

The pellet grill uses tiny wood pellets along with electricity which work together to produce heat. It combines the best attributes of charcoal and gas grills. The pellet grill gives you the Smokey flavor of a charcoal grill without the hassle. There is no messy setup or clean up. No open flame or lighter fluid is necessary. Starting the grill requires only the flip of a switch.

The pellet grill eliminates the danger of a flare-up that is often associated with gas grills. It has a nice even heat source. The temperature is controlled by a knob or buttons. Some of the grills may be controlled by an app. The easy-to-use temperature controls allow the user to prepare meals safely and consistently.

The pellets are available at grocery or home improvement stores. Several flavors and brands are easy to find. Amazon is another retail outlet.

Pellet grills are widely available. The grills are more expensive than most gas or charcoal grills. The ease of use and safety features are contributing to their growing popularity. Grilling with pellets is a new alternative to old school barbecuing and smoking.

Lighting12

Amanda Reiss, MA, CVRTLow Vision Specialist

The eyes need light and a clear pathway to the retina in order to process and see an image. There can be various kinds of disruption in the pathway due to aging and/or an eye disease that can cause decreased visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and color intensity. As these things happen, more light becomes necessary in order to see.

Aging is something that every person will experience and a decrease in contrast sensitivity is expected and normal. But when coupled with an eye condition, it becomes intensified and can be impairing. There are studies that have shown, for a 60-year old to perceive the same amount of brightness as a 10-year old child, there would need to be almost 15 times the amount of light.

To enhance functional vision, it is important to control the position, intensity, and type of light in the environment depending on the task being completed. Since everyone experiences light differently, experimenting with various types of bulbs, colors, and intensities is required. Make sure to find the most comfortable lighting that allows for both better sight and reduced eye strain.

Within the home environment, there are a couple key conditions that will help control lighting. These are uniformity, angle, intensity, temperature, and color. An evenly lit and bright working area that avoids dim spots will significantly reduce eye strain and keep the area safe. Using a lamp that adjusts the angle, intensity, temperature and color helps customize the light for whatever your needs are. These lamps will allow the user to move the light angle to

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avoid glare and give bright light exactly where it is wanted without direct light to the eyes.

LED lights are the best when it comes to low vision. They can be adjusted, cool to the touch, durable, and light goes out in one direction. When combined with a flexible lamp that is designed to distribute light out evenly, LED are the best lighting for low vision. http://lowvisionlights.com/

Silencing Unknown CallersKerri Salter, M.S., COMSCATs Specialist

Are you tired of your cell phone always ringing from unknown callers? Well, now you can put a stop to this! With the recent update to iOS 13, you can now silence these annoying phone calls. When this feature is turned on, numbers are blocked if they are not already in your contact list or if you have not

previously called that number. However, if you have previously texted someone or someone shared their number with you in an e-mail then a phone call from that telephone number will go through.

How does it work?

Incoming calls will come through from people that are saved in your contacts list, from recent calls list, and from SIRI suggestions to let you know who is calling based on phone numbers that are included in your e-mails and/or text messages.

If you get calls from unknown numbers, they are silenced and sent to your voicemail. These calls will appear in your recent call list.

If an emergency call is placed, the feature to silence unknown callers will be temporarily disabled for the next 24 hours to allow your iPhone to be reached.

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Important Things to know before feature is turned on

Make sure your important contacts are saved. Otherwise, you could miss a call that you really did not want to miss.

The call will go right to your voicemail and appear in your recent calls list.

You will NOT get a notification when you get the call.

How to turn on Silence Unknown Callers feature

Open Settings –simply press and hold your home button for SIRI or say, “Hey SIRI” then say, “Hey SIRI, open settings.”

Scroll down or use one (1) finger to swipe to the right until you get to Phone settings

Scroll down or use one (1) finger to swipe to the right to “Silence Unknown Callers” – this is a toggle button

Tap or use one (1) finger double tap to turn on the feature

Continue Your Learning Remotely: Weekly Session RoundupDebra Gilley, ChiefBlind Rehabilitation Service

We currently have 17 opportunities a week for you to continue your learning long distance through groups. Our specialists have really dedicated themselves to making sure you have a chance to learn in group settings. Classes are ongoing Monday through Friday in many different topics.

If you are not involved in our groups and would like to join, please call Debra Gilley at either 228-385-6730 office or 251-289-0797 cell to sign up for classes. There may be a charge for the groups

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depending on your co-pay status.

ALL CENTRAL TIME

Monday:9 a.m. Alexa—learn about the Alexa and how it can enhance your independence and enjoyment of life10 a.m. Book Talk—different authors and topics are chosen each week and discussed11 a.m. Chair Exercises1 p.m. Low Vision Accessibility on iPhone and iPad

Tuesday:10a.m. Health Coping Group—Different topics are discussed each week with our psychologist1 p.m. O&M Concepts—O&M Skills are covered each week2 p.m. Trivia—get those brain cells working and interact with other Veterans during weekly trivia on a variety of topics

Wednesday:

9 a.m. Living Skills—different aspects of living skills training and equipment are covered11 a.m. Cooking in the Dark—each week a new recipe or recipes are cooked with the group and different techniques are taught1 p.m. iOS Training—get together with other Veterans and learn about your iPhone or iPad during this training

Thursday:9 a.m. How to Self-Advocate—work with our Social Worker to build your skills of self-advocacy; we can all get better at this10 a.m. Chair Exercises—day two during the week of building endurance and strength1 p.m. Eye Conditions and Jeopardy—each week a different eye condition is discussed in detail3 p.m. OrCam—learn more about the OrCam and how to use it

Friday:

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9 a.m. Victor Reader Stream—training on the use of this device from A-Z11 a.m. GPS training—learn about GPS devices and how to use them1 p.m. Learn about the GCBRC—if you know a Veteran that should be coming to our BRC when we re-open for inpatients, let them know about this group so they can attend. This is a great time to ask questions, see photos with family members and get comfortable with who we are…

Additionally, we are providing 1:1 training virtually to Veterans. If you need training on any of your devices, please get in contact with your VIST Coordinator or let us know to get your referred to a specialist for instruction.

JOKE: What do you call Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles playing tennis? Endless LoveBlind GolfDestin Parsley, CTRS

Recreation Therapist

Did you know there is an organization for blind golfers? United States Blind Golf Association (USGA) is organized and operated for the purposes of benefiting blind and vision-impaired individuals throughout the United States. Membership is available to adults with visual acuity of less than 20/200.

Blind Golf is played by USGA Rules of Golf and the Modification of the Rules of Golf for Golfers with Disabilities. This includes grounding the golf club in a hazard and allowing the coach to stand in the line of play while the golfer is executing the shot. Every golfer has a sighted person to assist them, and they call these individuals “coaches”. The coach is there to aid the golfer with a course description, give correct yardages, and help with club selection and proper alignment.

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The golfers compete with other golfers that are within their sight classification. There are three categories:B-1 Category: no light perception, central or peripheral without light projection, up to the inability to differentiate between blank sheet of white paper and a sheet of white paper with a black symbol on it. B-2 Category: the ability to recognize the shape of a hand up to the visual acuity of 20/600. B-3 Category: visual acuity above 20/600 up to visual acuity of less than 20/200.

If you are at the Gulf Coast Blind Rehab Center, Recreation Therapy can provide putting experience on our putting green located on campus.

Need an outlet for socialization and engagement with others, try golfing. To sign up and become a member, follow the steps on

https://usblindgolf.com/membership.htm website and mail both the eyesight classification and application forms to the address below.

US Blind Golf Associationc/o Membership Chairperson 125 Gilberts Hill RdLehighton, PA 18235

Practicing Self CareDesmon Mitchell, Ph.D.GCBRC PsychologistSelf-care is vital to maintaining our mental health. With that said, why is it so difficult for many of us to make time for ourselves? Sometimes we may feel like taking time for ourselves seems selfish. Additionally, we may also feel like we are wasting time and not being “productive” when we already have too much to do on a daily/weekly/yearly basis. But these thoughts are not an accurate reflection of reality. Self-care is not selfish or a waste of time! Just like any machine, our bodies and

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minds need consistent, routine maintenance to function at our highest levels. Here are some suggestions to better your functioning:

Ways to Help Care for Yourself

- Take care of your body by eating a balanced diet, getting restful sleep, and exercising regularly.

- Develop meaningful relationships with others. Find people you can talk to on a regular basis and share both your concerns and your happiness with.

- Seek out interests, entertainment, hobbies, and activities that bring you joy and a sense of accomplishment.

- Journal to help you organize your thoughts and plainly express your emotions.

- When/where possible: spend time outside/outdoors.

- Learn to set healthy/appropriate boundaries. Say “no” if/when you already have too much going on.

- Practice gratitude. Being grateful helps us to limit negative emotions.

- Practice looking for the silver-lining on any given day and in any given situation (even if it may be difficult to find it).

- Limit the time you spend on social media. More and more research has found that social media can have a negative impact on one’s self-esteem and self-image.

- Forgive yourself and others frequently.

- Humble yourself and learn to ask for help.

- Build on successes by trying to emulate past success.

- Learn from, but learn to let go of, failures.

- Use an objective measuring stick for your successes/failures. Don’t

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compare yourself with others.

Knowing our strengths, weaknesses and limits, and seeking help outside of ourselves to fill in the gaps is what self-care is truly about. Like the old saying goes, how can we expect to save someone else who is drowning if we ourselves are drowning too? If we aren’t taking care of ourselves, and investing time and effort into our own well-being, how can we have anything left to help and share with others?

Self-care begins with being acutely aware of your own day-to-day functioning and what your physical and emotional needs are on any given day. Try to take time each day to reflect on how you think you are doing. What emotions are you feeling? What are you thinking about? What is worrying you? What is going well for you? Assessing these things daily will help you

gauge what you need to do for yourself and how much you can give to others. Every one of us needs help at times. Never forget that while our journeys differ, we are all in this together!

Advance DirectivesBeth Bosarge, LMSWGCBRC Social Worker

Hello, I hope all of you are enjoying Fall 2020 despite COVID-19. I know you hear this often, but we miss seeing you face-to-face and look forward to the day that it is safe for you to return to the GCBRC Program.

The social work topic that I want to share with you this quarter is Advance Directives. It is a topic that I usually discuss with each of you during the social work assessment after admitting to the GCBRC.

Often, we think of this as something that only the sick or

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those who are much older should complete. The truth is, no matter our age or health, we should all complete an Advance Directive and have it on file with our health care providers.

The VA Advance Directive is a legal document consisting of two sections:

Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care

Living Will

In simple terms, the Durable Power of Attorney is the part where you choose the person who will make decisions for you if you are not able to make decisions for yourself. This person is called your health care agent. You can also appoint a backup person.

The Living Will is the part detailing your wishes regarding medical and mental health care. Making a record of your preferences will make things easier for you, the person you appoint as your

health care agent, your family and your friends if you are ever unable to make these critical care decisions.

Upon completion of the Advance Directive at the VA, you will receive several copies to be distributed among your outside health care agencies and a copy to keep readily available at your home or in your car. It is important to have easy access to this document if the need for it should arise.

I am always available to walk you through this process, so you have a better understanding of the questions being asked. Please call or email me any time, and we can discuss it in detail. Completing the form usually takes less than ten minutes.

Thanks for taking time to listen and take care of yourself. Stay well and keep a positive attitude.

“When we change the way we think, we change our lives.

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What most people do not understand is how powerful our thinking is and how involved it is in our health.” – Bob Proctor

Provider Corner:COVID 19Brenda Arnold, NP Nurse Practitioner

Covid-19 is caused by a virus first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. The virus spreads easily through droplets when you talk, sneeze, cough, hug, or shake hands. The germs survive on surfaces like tables, door handles, and telephones.

Preventing Spread of COVID Keep a six-foot distance

from others Wear mask when in public Cover your coughs and

sneeze Clean hands often with soap

and water for at least 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer

containing at least 60% alcohol

Signs of COVID-19 which indicate need to be testedAlthough, some people have no symptoms, symptoms range from mild to severe and may appear 2-14 days after exposure: Fever or chills Cough, Shortness of breath

or difficulty breathing Fatigue, muscle or body

aches, headache Sore throat, congestion or

runny nose Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;

loss of taste or smell

When is an Emergency room visit or hospitalization needed: Breathing get worse-harder

or faster, a feeling of getting less air

Trouble breathing while lying flat on back

The need to lean forward to breath when sitting

chest painFor more information, visit:

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https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html

Healthy Holiday TipsBonita Jaynes, MS, RD, LDDietician

It’s that time of year, for merriment and cheer! The holiday season from Fall to Winter is a time for making precious memories, but it is also the time of year that we tend to indulge in holiday meals and snacks that are calorically dense. It’s easy to gain a few stubborn pounds over those 6-8 weeks, so here are some nutritional tips to prepare and make healthier choices during the holidays.

5 Healthy Holiday

Nutrition Tips!

1. Portion sizes count! You can enjoy your favorite

foods if you just get a smaller portion on your plate. Balance and moderation are truly key.

2. Meal Planning: Don’t skip breakfast! At least enjoy a snack before the “big meal” to curb hunger and control portions. If you overeat at one meal, just get back on track with the next meal!

3. Focus on your company, not food! Play active games like tug-of-war, help put together a new gift, help with the dishes, or go for a walk after the meal. Create a new tradition to be active!

4. Challenge yourself with a healthy veggie recipe!

Vegetables contain fiber, making meals satisfying and promoting heart health. Be the person that brings a vegetable dish or a healthier version of your favorite dish to a holiday party.

5. Try these healthy holiday cooking tips:

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a. When making dressing, use more vegetables (onion, garlic, celery) and a little less bread.

b. Try a cornbread dressing recipe that includes diced yellow squash to get in that fiber-rich vegetable.

c. Cook with fruit, reduce the sugar added—or enjoy fresh fruit!

d. Avoid battered-and-deep-fried foods: Choose healthier methods like baking, roasting, sautéing lightly in a little healthy oil (such as olive or canola oil).

e. “Mashed” Cauliflower with 2% milk, garlic powder, and light parmesan cheese.

Remember that Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s holidays are just a handful of special days! You don’t have to sample pecan pie and eggnog November 1st through January 2nd. Keep your health in mind and keep those special foods – the ones you only eat once per year - in moderation!

References: VA MOVE Special Occasion Eating, N16

Chaplain’s ThoughtsChaplain Gary MorrisChaplain Service

As I look around the area on my travel back and forth to work, I have seen a lot of recovery going on. I started the week with hardly a stop light working, low traffic volume, and seeing lots of trees laying across access roads and in or on roof tops. Today I see lots more traffic and power trucks, new power poles erected, lots of trees cut up and moved out of the way and blue tarps on roofs.

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Things still look snarly and if your daily commute involved coming across the Pensacola Bay new bridge, well, sorry. There is going to be a long wait for repairs, and, maybe, you can listen a good audio book on your now much extended commute. Our lives have been disrupted and changed in so many ways this year, and I have been tempted to lament with God that enough is enough already!

However, I am reminded that we live in a fallen world that has yet been completely brought back into the fold of God. Sometimes I get confronted by my limitations but giving in or up is not an option for disciples of Christ. The Cross of Christ was just the start of his transformation of God’s beloved creation. We cannot stop every life-threatening event, but, small as I feel sometimes in the midst of the grand scheme of things, I realize I am not

powerless to make some difference in people’s lives through the gifts God has given me. Be strong, use those gifts and hone new ones if you think they can transform lives with hope and good in these times. Even a small measure of help to a neighbor can be multiplied magnificently by our Lord. If we trust God at His word, we will be OK, as we serve in his unconditional love. God will provide.

I checked in with a lot of Veterans by phone over the past week following Sally, and one veteran who has a small farm told me she left her travel trailer with her cats the evening before landfall, checked on her animals and moved into an unfinished bungalow. As she settled in for the night she was scared, anxious. She surrendered her fears to God in prayer and she said when she did an immediate spirit of calm came over her and she slept safely

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through the night. God answers the prayers of the faithful and often just as we would hope to meet our needs. But sometimes the answer is a challenge that changes our lives for the good of not just ourselves but for others. I just love it when God does this!

You have heard the saying, “God is not finished with me yet.” In times like these, it is important to take that to heart. I was filling out the annual All Employee Survey on-line this week and as with other applications and surveys there is that list of age brackets we are asked to check. I painfully realized now that I must check the very last box (65 and older). It is somewhat sobering. I don’t like to think my life in this world is almost over, but I do know “God is not finished with me yet.” For the maker of heaven and earth, knitted us wonderfully together in our mother’s womb and gives us life and a uniqueness

in purpose if we stay open to Him.

The old testament talks about the Cedars of Lebanon, a strong, tall deep-rooted, tree that grows it roots far down to reach the flowing underground streams from which it draws life. I want to encourage you today to stay strong, to continue to grow your roots deep in the life-giving stream through prayer, drawing strength from the Word of God in scripture and bearing fruit in service, for no matter what life might throw at us. GOD IS WITH US in every effort of faithfulness to Him. He will never leave us, nor never forsake us! Dog-gone it! I might just inscribe on my tombstone “God’s not finished with me yet!” As I believe that even in heaven God will give us meaning and purpose amidst all the celebration of life well-lived!

BROS Bulletin Board26

Molly Mather, M.A., COMS, CLVTBlind Rehab Outpatient Specialist

Hello everyone! It’s me, Molly, the Blind Rehab Outpatient Specialist (BROS) for the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System. I hope you all are staying safe and doing well!

Since the last newsletter, I have continued to provide BROS services via telehealth platforms to include telephone and video options. It has been a very interesting and exciting journey as the we have navigated creative ways to continue with training to meet Veteran blind rehab needs. As we move forward with our “new normal”, I will continue to adapt to provide BROS services in the most efficient and beneficial manner to our Veterans.

So, here’s the good news! As of Monday, October 19, 2020, I was able to begin providing in

person training to Veterans when appropriate. I will continue to offer and provide telehealth training for those needs that do not require in person training and to Veterans who may not yet be comfortable with me coming back into their homes. With this hybrid platform, I am hoping to be able to be even more efficient in accessibility and meeting your needs.

In the “new normal”, I will be wearing both a face mask and face shield throughout the duration of the appointment. The Veteran and any other individual participating in the session, or present within the immediate area, will be required to wear a face mask throughout the duration of the appointment as well. I will be conducting COVID 19 screenings upon scheduling the appointment, the day prior to the appointment, and once again upon arrival for the appointment. I will be using an

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infrared thermometer to check temperatures of the Veteran, and any individual(s) participating or present within the immediate area, upon arrival and prior to the start of the appointment. As before, I will continue to follow our Infection Control policies and procedures for sanitizing and cleaning all equipment before and after use. When applicable, social physical distancing will be adhered to and followed. These new safety measures are simple steps we can all take together to keep one another as safe and protected as possible as we begin resumption of face-to-face training.

It is truly an honor to serve you all! I look forward to being able to meet your blind rehab needs and appreciate all the patience as we navigate the “new normal”.

I hope to see you all soon!

COVID-19: Risks and Challenges for the Visually ImpairedRobin Kelley Sniffen, M.Ed., COMS, CATISVIST Coordinator

As we all continue to deal with the current COVID-19 pandemic, it is important that remain vigilant in our efforts to stay safe and healthy. According to the World Health Organization, Individuals who are blind or visually impaired are not at greater risk to contract COVID-19 because of their visual impairment, however, the visually impaired population potentially expose themselves to increased risk due to lifestyle requirements from being blind or visually impaired. Below are some tips for people with visual impairments to avoid unnecessary risks.

As low vision and blindness individuals, you may use touch much more than the average

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person. Whether it is using a sighted guide, carrying a cane/using a guide dog, or touching tactile signs and braille, we rely on activities that are not exactly conducive to social distancing. Also, many of our Veterans fall into high-risk categories due to factors such as diabetes and age. Make sure you: Wipe down your cane/guide

dog harness Use delivery services for

food, if available Limit riding public

transportation, Uber/Lyft, paratransit if you can

Follow the CDC guidelines for hand washing

Wear a mask when you go somewhere you cannot distance yourself from others.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.

Take precautions before leaving home

Practice social distancing by avoiding large gatherings and maintaining distance from others when possible.

Take advantage of telehealth appointments when appropriate, but always seek medical help when you need it.

What about dealing with isolation and the disruption in daily life? Many of us have lost opportunities for recreation and socialization. Here are some tips for keeping your brain busy and staying connected. Is this a good time to start

some new hobbies such as gardening?

Now might be a great time for meditation.

Take advantage of online resources for connection.

The Talking Books Service can help you start reading more.

Exercise!29

If you are working from home, take a relaxing break from work.

Because the virus can present so differently in different people, contact your healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms and follow their advice. With cold and flu season approaching, it is more important than ever to exercise caution. Stay safe, Veterans!

Sources: World Health Organization, World Services for the Blind, American Foundation for the Blind, IRIS Vision

VIST Support GroupsPensacola, Fla., VIST Support Group 1 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month contact Scott Turner, VIST Coordinator, at (850) 912-2552.Join on your computer or mobile appClick here to join the meetingOr call in (audio only)+1 872-701-0185,,93264074# 

Biloxi, Miss.& Mobile, AL COMBINED, VIST Support Group10 a.m. on the second Thursday of each monthContact Robin Sniffen, VIST Coordinator, at (228) 385-6762.Join Microsoft Teams Meeting+1 872-701-0185,,,419 167 212#

Know Your VIST Coordinator30

The Visual Impairment Service Team Coordinators are your case managers for blind rehabilitation care and services and your first contact when you need to enroll or apply for a program. Whether it be your first admission to the BRC, a special program to meet unique needs or a refresher program, these representatives are important to your success. The following is the current updated list for the South-Central VA Health Care Network VIST Coordinators.

VIST COORDINATOR LOCATION

Adrienne Thompson (713) 791-1414ext. 25398

Michael E. DeBakey VAMC 2002 Holcombe Blvd. (580/112-C VISOR) Houston, TX 77030

Amy Wheeler(713)791-1414ext. 23894

Michael E. DeBakey VAMC 2002 Holcombe Blvd. (580/112-C VISOR) Houston, TX 77030

Harold Miller (601) 364-1551

G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center 1500 E. Woodrow Wilson Dr. Jackson, MS 39216

Melanie Shurden(601) 364-7937

G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center 1500 E. Woodrow Wilson Dr. Jackson, MS 39216

Darla Pascal 1-800-935-8387ext. 66387

Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System 2400 Canal Street, Eye ClinicNew Orleans, LA 70119

Scott Turner (850) 912-2552ext. 32552

Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System Joint Ambulatory Care CenterPensacola, Florida

Robin Sniffen(228) 385-6762

Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System 400 Veterans Ave. (124)

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Biloxi, MS 39531VACANT(318) 466-2555 or(318) 308-9513

Alexandria VA Medical Center P. O. Box 69004 Alexandria, LA 71306

Kara Aaron (501) 257-5070

John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital Central Arkansas Veterans Health Care System 4300 West 7th St. Little Rock, AR 72205-5484

Lori Ruddick (479) 443-4301 ext. 63489

Fayetteville VAMC 1100 N. College Ave. Fayetteville, AR 72703

Broderick Burks(318) 990-4839

Overton Brooks VAMC510 E. Stoner Ave.Shreveport, LA 71101

GCBRC Biloxi Breeze Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System

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FREE MATTER FOR THE BLIND & PHYSICALLY

HANDICAPPED POSTAL MANUAL

PART 135

400 Veterans Ave. (124)Biloxi, MS 39531

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