For many Veterans, readjusting to civilian life after leaving the military can be difficult. That's what Aaron Quinonez found when he left the Marine Corps, as he soon faced divorce, homelessness and the inability to secure a long-term job. Over time, his mental health steadily deteriorated as PTSD ravaged his mind. For Quinonez, life seemed to always get worse, and on one July 4th afternoon, he parked in an empty lot, pulled out his SIG Sauer and prepared to end his life.

In this week’s episode of Borne the Battle, Quinonez shares his journey from being homeless and on the brink of committing suicide to becoming an entrepreneur, sharing how he developed new programs and a mobile app to help Veterans suffering from PTSD and suicidal thoughts.

#212: Fighting to End Veteran Suicide with the Press of a Button w/ Marine Veteran Aaron Quinonez, CEO of Operation Pop Smoke

Borne the Battle recognizes each battle, challenge, and sacrifice our Veterans endure during and after their service, as well as spotlighting important resources, offices, and benefits VA offers our Veterans.

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In this compelling episode, we welcome Dr. Holt, a board-certified Pulmonary and Critical Care physician, associate professor at the University of Miami, and a key member of the Miami VA Healthcare System. Dr. Holt leads a highly successful lung cancer screening program, showcasing his commitment to veteran care through early detection and advanced treatment methods. 
Key Highlights:

Lung Precision Oncology Program (LPOP) Overview: Dr. Holt dives into the core mission of LPOP – identifying and examining lung tumors in their earliest stages, crucial for effective treatment. With lung cancer being a significant threat to veterans, LPOP's targeted approach is a game-changer in cancer care.Innovative Diagnostic Techniques: Discover how navigational bronchoscopy and CT scans are transforming lung cancer detection, offering non-invasive, precise tumor mapping. These technologies enable personalized treatments tailored to the patient's specific needs and the molecular profile of the tumor.Advancing Lung Cancer Treatment: Learn about the latest advancements in lung cancer therapy, focusing on targeted treatments with fewer side effects. Dr. Holt emphasizes the importance of early screening and the role of LPOP in driving scientific research and medical breakthroughs.Nationwide Impact of LPOP: Explore how LPOP, with its network of hubs across the country, is making advanced lung cancer screening and treatment accessible to veterans nationwide, contributing significantly to cancer research.Veteran Involvement and Advocacy: Understand how veterans are at the heart of LPOP, not only benefiting from cutting-edge treatments but also participating in the progress of scientific research.Resources and Events: Visit Lung Cancer Kilts Research Cures for more information on lung cancer advocacy and research.The Great American Smokeout: A reminder of the importance of smoking cessation in preventing lung cancer and supporting overall health.
Tune in to this episode for an in-depth look at how Dr. Holt and the LPOP initiative are reshaping lung cancer care for veterans, offering hope and cutting-edge treatment options.

The Lung Precision Oncology Program (LPOP)

On this week's episode of Borne the Battle, host Pablo Meza spoke with Rachel Han from VA's mobile app team, who shared how VA is using apps as a digital bridge connecting Veterans to VA's benefits and services.

Empowering Veterans with the VA Health and Benefits App

On this episode of Borne the Battle, we dive into the VA's efforts to make it easier for veterans to access the programs, services, and benefits they've earned. We learn about the VA's phone number, 800-MYVA411, and how it's the organization's "voice front door" to connect veterans with the right person or program. We hear a heartwarming story of a veteran who received assistance from a customer service representative and patient advocate to access the voucher program for the homeless. Our urges listeners who are veterans or have family members who are veterans to enroll in the VA healthcare system and use MYVA411 as a starting point for information and eligibility questions. Overall, this episode highlights the various services and programs offered by the VA and the efforts being made to improve accessibility and assistance for veterans.

One Number, Countless Benefits: How 800-MYVA411 Simplifies VA Access

In this episode, we talk with Jason Strickland, director of communications for The National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic. In this week-long event, veterans from 42 different states and 80 VA medical centers or clinics participate in activities such as skiing, fly fishing, rock climbing, and even sled hockey. Participants have a variety of disabilities, including profound disabilities, vision impairment, spinal cord injuries, amputations, and traumatic brain injuries. Organizers work with DAV to bring in sponsors who are committed to serving the veteran community, especially those suffering from disabilities. Additionally, we discuss how the staff and volunteers work tirelessly throughout the year to create this event. In addition to serving breakfast, repairing wheelchairs and instructing skiers, there are several volunteer opportunities available. We discuss the competitive nature of the application process for becoming a volunteer, as well as the importance of registering as early as possible. Follow their journey on social media with the handles @Sports4Vets and at www.wintersportsclinic.org

Revolutionary Rehabilitation: The National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic

In this episode of the Borne the Battle Podcast, we're connecting Nick Beelner the Director of the National Disabled Veterans Golf Clinic, an adaptive golf program focused on empowering disabled veterans from coast to coast. We'll discuss the tailored golf lessons, user-friendly equipment, and entertaining activities they offer, as well as the sense of camaraderie and personal growth experienced by participants. Join us as we uncover the power of connection, teamwork, and triumphing over challenges with the remarkable individuals at the National Disabled Veterans Golf Clinic.  How To Apply For VA Health Care | Veterans - National Disabled Veterans Golf Clinic

#212: Fighting to End Veteran Suicide with the Press of a Button w/ Marine Veteran Aaron Quinonez, CEO of Operation Pop Smoke

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