Minneapolis VA May News Letter

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On the Beat

Minneapolis VA - May 2025

group of people standing in entryway

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins is greeted by Minneapolis VA leadership.


Veteran Affairs Secretary visits Minneapolis VA

group standing with VA Secretary

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins, visited the Minneapolis VA Medical Center on Tuesday, May 13. In a conversation about what makes care at the Minneapolis VA unique, it became apparent that it doesn’t stop with top-notch specialty care and patient satisfaction scores, it really is about the people.  ...read more


Minnesota nice volunteers needed

people hanging a basketball hoop

Ope! Come show off your Minnesota nice at the 44th annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games. Make a difference by helping with the Games in our own backyard, July 17–22, 2025. You can learn more about the different volunteer roles, etiquette, and expectations online in the Wheelchair Games Volunteer Handbook. Fer Pete’s sake, registration just takes a few minutes online at www.wheelchairgames.org. ...read more


Don't give up

three people sitting in doctors office

In March 2023, Mirna Rowe was told she was in remission, which means there were no signs of cancer. “There is a period where lymphoma can return,” Rowe explained that it was worrisome news. “Because, ‘Hey you got really good news’, but it may just be a short period of time.” That spring she began getting care at the Minneapolis VA. “I started working with Dr. Vaca about reframing my mind, about what survivorship means,” said Rowe. ...read more


K-9 Officer Murphy gets official portrait

black lab K-9

Recognizing some great members of our Minneapolis VA team during National Police Week, to include Officer Murphy. VA Police provide law enforcement and security services to Veterans and their families at the medical centers and Community Based Outpatient Clinics. Services include crime prevention and investigation, maintaining law and order, vehicle and foot patrols, telecommunication services, and workplace violence prevention. ...read more


I am proud to say—I am a VA nurse

person in black shirt smiling

In May we celebrated nurses during National Nurses Week by moments of recognition, collaboration and gratitude. One moment of empathy came in the form of a letter to VA nurses from one of their own. Adam Herr, a retired US Air Force officer, penned a letter to his colleagues explaining where his passion for the nursing profession came from and what it means to him. ...read more


From Army Reserve to hospice hero

person smiling in front of medical ward

This remarkable individual has dedicated her life to serving others, from her time in the Army to her current work as a hospice volunteer at Dignity Lane. Char Psihos’ journey began over two decades ago when she joined the Army Reserve. Throughout her time in the Reserve, she discovered the importance of contributing to something greater than herself, a value that has carried through to her current work in hospice care. ...read more.


Answer the Call: Increasing Naloxone Access

three people standing in front of overdose awareness sign

More people are dying from opioid overdoses than car accidents. Veterans Health Administration is committed to reducing overdose deaths. One way to accomplish this is through expanding access to the life-saving medication naloxone (also known as Narcan®). The Minneapolis VA has been nationally recognized for its innovative strategies to increase naloxone access. ...read more


Upcoming Events

Volunteer at the National Veterans Wheelchair Games in Minneapolis! Thu July 17 – Tues July 22.

Cancer Resource Fair - Mon. Jun 2, 2025, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Ramsey County Veteran Claims Clinic, Thu. Jun 12, 2025, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Minneapolis VA virtual townhall for Veterans and caregivers, Thu. June 12, 2025 11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Empowered relief for chronic pain [In-person], Thu. Jun 12, 2025, 1 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Veteran Pop-Up Food Pantry - Tue. Jun 17, 2025, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Visit our website for upcoming events at Events | VA Minneapolis Health Care | Veterans Affairs

Minneapolis VA Key Service Contact Numbers

Veteran Crisis Line: 988 - Available 24/7

Medical Records/Release of Information: 612-467-1992 - M-F, 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Patient Advocates: 612- 467-2106 - M-F, 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.