When Navy veteran and current BVA Judge Advocate Stephen Butler lost his vision, his world went dark in more ways than one. Then a diagnosis of advanced diabetes took away the feeling in his hands and feet, leaving him without spatial awareness, and without the tactile feedback needed to navigate the world or play the musical instruments he once loved. “I went from being a warrior, capable of completing any mission, to holding onto someone’s

Officials at Meta (formerly Facebook) have sent a written expression of thanks to BVA Executive Director Dr. Vernon Humphrey and Legislative Director Lea Rowe for attending and contributing to a DC Connect Happy Hour Reception on September 18 in the Nation’s Capital. Last week’s BVA Happenings included a brief recap of the worldwide virtual event that originated in Menlo Park, California, and specifically BVA’s involvement. During the DC Happy Hour, Vern took the microphone to

In the newest episode of Visions of BVA, the Association’s monthly podcast, program host Steve Baskis and guests Tina Lemus and Celiann Gonzalez reflect on a Team River Runner (TRR) experience near Grand Junction, Colorado, in mid-August. Paddling with Purpose: Blind Veterans and Team River Runner went live on September 1. Steve, Tina, and Celiann (TRR staff and a veteran herself) come together to share personal stories of overcoming fear, building trust, and rediscovering confidence

BVA Happenings readers who went first to the Ambassadog Scoop Series today (see below) are already aware that guide dog Hannah’s “Mom” is Jill Hinton Wolfe of Walker, Michigan. In addition to being a super mom to a dog with whom she shares the joys of the great outdoors, Jill is a talented, prolific, published writer with profound perspectives and insights into the adversities and possibilities of post-military life. Mission, Tribe & Grace: How Veterans