Wishing You Comfort & Joy

Message from the Executive Director John A. Gennaro

This is the time of year when I reflect and thank you for your immense service to our country.

We applaud your sacrifice and dedication to ensure America’s freedoms. We are grateful to you, your families, and caregivers.

It is an honor and a privilege to serve you.

As a High Reliability Organization, the Erie VA Medical Center is committed to ensuring Veterans experience care aimed at building trust and providing an exceptional patient experience. The shift from a traditional health care setting to a forward-moving, technology-embracing health care provider is a continuous journey.

Please continue to share your feedback. It makes us stronger, more productive, and innovative.

Watching our clinical and administrative teams work together to achieve goals is inspiring – and would not be possible without you.

We are truly fortunate to witness incredible acts of kindness and caring as a regular part of our daily lives.

Thank you for choosing VA.

Wishing you and yours a warm, joyous, and healthy holiday season. 

Peace, Hope, & Healing

Message from the Chief Chaplain  Momo S. Larmena, Jr.

Seasons greetings to all.

As the year comes to an end, it is important – amid much joy – that we recognize and acknowledge that the holiday season can be a difficult time of the year.

As we grieve loved ones who are no longer with us, we are confronted by the reality that even the joy of the holidays cannot wholly take away the pain and difficulty of life in our world.

This time of the year can be lonely. It may appear that everyone around us is warm, happy, and surrounded by loved ones while we are alone.

If you feel isolated during this season, or if this is a time of sadness for you, please communicate those feelings to our team, your family, and friends. 

Being humble and honest about our needs, helps others love and care for us.

As we welcome the new year, let us use this season as a time to share how we feel, what matters to us, and by renewing commitments to our faith, values, and beliefs.

In doing so, we extend love, forgiveness, and grace while becoming the best versions of ourselves.

With every blessing for hope and healing.

Holiday mindfulness

Be kind to yourself this holiday season by:

✔️ Setting boundaries
✔️ Saying no 
✔️ Putting yourself first
✔️ Enjoying nature
✔️ Forgiving yourself
✔️ Taking a step back

Managing holiday stress | Women Veterans Program

They come every year whether we are ready or not…the holidays. This can be a stressful time of year, and there are ways to focus on your mental health and keep stress low. CLICK or call 814-860-2907 for information.

You’re not alone

If you need help this month or any time of the year, the Veterans Crisis Line is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

✔️ Dial 988, then press 1
✔️ CHAT Online
✔️ Text 838255