David Szumowski had been in Vietnam only 40 days when his tank platoon was attacked during a recovery mission near the Michelin rubber plantation northwest of Saigon. His tank took a direct hit from a rocket-propelled grenade, and the fragmentation wounds left Szumowski totally blind.

After recovering at Walter Reed Medical Center and the Edward Hines Jr. VA Medical Center, Szumowski was accepted to the University of Denver law school. He worked for a time as a benefits counselor for VA in San Diego, Calif., and later helped start the Vietnam Veterans Leadership Program there. He went on to be a prosecutor in the San Diego District Attorney’s office and then a San Diego County Superior Court judge—a position he held for 18 years until he retired in 2016.

Szumowski was still recovering from his wounds when he was introduced to NLS, the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled. NLS serves people like Szumowski who are blind or have low vision, as well as serving people with physical disabilities–people who have had a stroke, for example, or have suffered a traumatic brain injury–that makes it difficult to read regular print.

Through its national network of cooperating libraries, NLS circulates books and magazines in braille or audio formats, delivered by postage-free mail or instantly downloadable. NLS provides playback equipment for audio books received in the mail, and there’s an app that makes listening to downloaded books on smart devices a cinch.

Better yet, it’s all free! And by law, Veterans–whether or not their visual impairment or disability is service-related–go to the front of the line at NLS.

In the hospital, “I started reading a lot–it was a way to kill time,” Szumowski recalls. One of the first NLS books he read was a time-killer for sure: Tolstoy’s War and Peace, which–in 1969–was available on a set of 43 16-rpm records. (Now it can be downloaded.)

In the five decades since he lost his sight, Szumowski has read thousands of books (“I stopped counting long ago at 2,000,” he says), many of them from NLS’s extensive collection. Just like a public library, NLS has tens of thousands of books of all kinds, from current best sellers to the classics, as well as an array of books of interest to people with disabilities. NLS has dozens of magazines in braille and audio too, including Sports Illustrated, Consumer Reports, American History, Southern Living, and Smithsonian.

And if you’re a musician, or want to learn to play an instrument, NLS has the world’s largest collection of braille music scores and braille and audio music instruction and appreciation materials.

Guides

NLS also produces guides on a variety of topics of interest to people who are blind or disabled. One of them, Resources for Disabled Veterans, was updated just last year and includes contact information for organizations that help Veterans with employment and rehabilitation, financial and legal matters, physical and psychological health, and more. It’s available to NLS patrons and the general public on our website, at www.loc.gov/nls/resources/general-resources-on-disabilities/resources-for-disabled-veterans/. NLS also has guides on topics such as travel and recreation for people who are visually impaired, accessible video games, and where to get Bibles and other sacred writings in audio, braille, and large print.

Events

Many libraries in the NLS network sponsor events specifically for patrons who are blind or disabled, such as audio-described movie nights, book clubs, health fairs, “touch tours” of local museums, and classes on all kinds of technology topics–like how to customize your mobile phone or tablet, or how to use popular shopping apps.

And since 2015, NLS has partnered with the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to distribute iBill currency readers, free of charge, to any blind or visually impaired U.S. citizen or legal resident who requests one. You can find out more about that program at www.bep.gov/resources/meaningfulaccess.html.

Impact

Now that he’s retired, Szumowski tries to read two or three books each week. He’s also told his own story in a memoir titled Reach for More: A Journey from Loss to Love and Fulfillment. It will be added to the NLS collection later this year.

What impact has NLS had on his life? “It provides an opportunity for me to learn things I’d like to learn and travel to places through reading that I’d otherwise never get to see,” Szumowski says. “It’s also been a tremendous source of pleasure for me.”

If you have a visual or physical disability that keeps you from reading regular print, enrolling in NLS is easy. Just call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) and follow the prompts to be connected with the NLS network library that serves your state. You can also find more information about NLS and how to enroll at www.loc.gov/thatallmayread.


Mark Layman is a writer and editor at the National Library Services for the Blind and Print Disabled

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82 Comments

  1. oscar soliz April 5, 2020 at 01:13

    DO YOU HAVE ANY AUDIO FOR OR TO LEARN A DIFF LANGUAGE

  2. John K April 2, 2020 at 11:16

    Hello everyone, A few Vets have questions on whether the audio books apply to them or not. At the end of the article is this: “If you have a visual or physical disability that keeps you from reading regular print, enrolling in NLS is easy. Just call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) and follow the prompts to be connected with the NLS network library that serves your state. You can also find more information about NLS and how to enroll at http://www.loc.gov/thatallmayread.” Myself, I’m 60%, but I can read on my own with no problem so this won’t apply to me. The audio books are specifically for blind and print disabled which I am not nor does my disability rating reflect. Hope this helps others in need of them, so check out the link and thank you for your service. Navy Vet.

  3. Mike Dailey April 2, 2020 at 10:35

    Judge Szumowski was a high school classmate of mine & I am not the least surprised at how successful his life has been even with one of the worst disabilities. I was also in Vietnam in Tay Ninh province & once traveled through the Michelin plantation near where he was wounded. Because of one traumatic event the VA considers me 50% disabled due to PTSD. Without any hesitation, I will admit that Dave was more successful in his life than I was in mine. I wish him the very, very best & extend the same wishes to his wife & family,

  4. Thomas April 2, 2020 at 10:31

    Hello everyone. Click this link. Add your info. Enroll and you should eventually get access to downloadable audio books,

    http://www.loc.gov/thatallmayread

  5. John Grigsby April 2, 2020 at 09:04

    I am a service-connected, disabled vet. I do not have a reading disability, but my wife is legally blind. Can I get materials through myself to help her?

    • David Johnson April 2, 2020 at 12:01

      It costs between 15 and 20 dollars a month

    • Mark Layman April 2, 2020 at 14:56

      Hello, Mr. Grigsby — Yes, your wife is eligible for our service, and you can apply on her behalf. Just fill out the short form at http://www.loc.gov/nls/enrollment-equipment/apply-for-nls-service/ and the NLS network library in your state will be in touch. You can also call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) and follow the prompts to be connected to our network library in your state. (But please be patient — because of service disruptions related to the coronavirus pandemic, libraries might be delayed in responding to your request.)
      And Mr. Johnson — NLS service is provided completely free of charge! No ifs, ands, or buts! You can find our more at http://www.loc.gov/thatallmayread.
      –NLS communications & outreach staff member

  6. Camie April 2, 2020 at 08:59

    Just show your VA card. This works in most instances.

    • Mark Layman April 2, 2020 at 14:58

      Hi, Camie — No need to show a VA card! We’re eager to serve any US resident or American citizen living abroad who qualifies. Just fill out the short form at http://www.loc.gov/nls/enrollment-equipment/apply-for-nls-service/ and the NLS network library in your state will get in touch with you. You can also call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) and follow the prompts to be connected to our network library in your state. (But please be patient — because of service disruptions related to the coronavirus pandemic, libraries might be delayed in responding to your request.)
      –NLS communications & outreach staff member

  7. Dennis Tencza April 2, 2020 at 08:24

    Librivox.org thousands of free classical audio books. Download for free or even volunteer to help. I love it!

  8. Dominic Ricci April 2, 2020 at 08:15

    I qualify for the program with a TBI but I don’t understand why I don’t get and got told no by a library.

    • Mark Layman April 2, 2020 at 15:01

      Hello, Mr. Ricci — If your TBI makes it difficult for you to read regular print, you qualify for NLS. Please try again — fill out the short form at http://www.loc.gov/nls/enrollment-equipment/apply-for-nls-service/ and the NLS network library in your state will get in touch with you. You can also call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) and follow the prompts to be connected to our network library in your state.
      –NLS communications & outreach staff member

  9. Donald Smith April 2, 2020 at 05:01

    I am a Korean War veteran, and I have macular degeneration and can no longer read and miss reading books. I would love to get audio books to enjoy reading again. How do I get started?

    • Sam April 2, 2020 at 09:22

      Yet another VA Newsletter that says what is available, but doesn’t say how to access it. Wish I could help you, Donald. I’d love to know myself.

      • CJ B. April 2, 2020 at 12:11

        This was my concern. It doesn’t say how to access.

    • Mark Layman April 2, 2020 at 16:36

      Hello, Mr. Smith—NLS is here to help! Just fill out the short form at http://www.loc.gov/nls/enrollment-equipment/apply-for-nls-service/ and the NLS network library in your state will get in touch with you. (A family member or friend can fill it out for you if necessary.) You can also call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) and follow the prompts to be connected to our network library in your state. You’ll be enjoying books again in no time!
      –NLS communications & outreach staff member

  10. Walter J.Bartoszewicz April 2, 2020 at 01:55

    On a different subject.Does anyone know how to access the filming in Vietnam around 1966 , called the “ Big Picture “ ? TKS Walt Bartoszewicz

  11. Troy M. Warren Sr. April 2, 2020 at 00:12

    @Willie Smith…Yes, veterans as well as any civilian receiving disability will be entitled to a stimulus check as long you made less than 75,000 or less than 145,000 married.

  12. Troy M. Warren Sr. April 2, 2020 at 00:11

    Yes, veterans as well as any civilian receiving disability will be entitled to a stimulus check as long you made less than 75,000 or less than 145,000 married.

  13. george wojtkowski April 2, 2020 at 00:01

    Are books available during this shutdown? My Pittsburgh library is shut down and I am going nuts

    • MJ April 2, 2020 at 09:48

      You can access your library ebook content through an app called Libby.

    • Mark Layman April 2, 2020 at 16:46

      Hello, Mr. Wojtkowski– Many of the 100 or NLS-affiliated libraries around the country are closed or providing only minimal service, and the situation is changing daily. If you are an NLS patron, I suggest you call the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped at 412-687-2440 to get the latest on their status and whether they are still sending out braille and audio books. If you aren’t enrolled in BARD, our Braille and Audio Reading Download service, now is a great time to try it. You can find more information about that at https://www.loc.gov/nls/enrollment-equipment/register-for-bard-get-bard-mobile/. Like you, we hope things get back to normal as soon as possible!
      –NLS communications and outreach staff member

  14. Deborah Blakley April 1, 2020 at 23:36

    The Braille and Talking Books Program is accomplished through a nationwide network of libraries to serve citizens and Veterans living inside the U.S. or abroad. Applying for this service is easy. Call the National Library Service at 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) or visit them on the web at http://www.loc.gov/ThatAllMayRead

  15. Linda White April 1, 2020 at 22:52

    The state of Oregon has suspended mailing out audio books for the blind. So you can’t get them right now. I really don’t know why they suspended them.

    • Mark Layman April 3, 2020 at 11:24

      Hello, Ms. White — To protect the health of their employees, many of the 100 or NLS-affiliated libraries around the country are closed or providing only minimal service. If you aren’t enrolled in BARD, our Braille and Audio Reading Download service, now is a great time to try it–you can download books any time you want! You can find more information about that at https://www.loc.gov/nls/enrollment-equipment/register-for-bard-get-bard-mobile/.
      Like you, we hope things get back to normal as soon as possible!
      –NLS communications and outreach staff member

  16. William Rau April 1, 2020 at 22:45

    How do I get my book

  17. Ronnie Oliver April 1, 2020 at 22:28

    I hope you get better and I hope they hire you. Have a great day and thank you for your review and your letter.

  18. Tommy Lee Keene 114 flint circle April 1, 2020 at 22:27

    I would very much like to get free audio books. I am a disabled veteran. Thank You

    • Mark Layman April 3, 2020 at 11:31

      Hello, Mr. Keene– If your disability makes it difficult for you to read regular print, NLS can help! Just fill out the short form at http://www.loc.gov/nls/enrollment-equipment/apply-for-nls-service/ and the NLS network library in your state will get in touch with you and get you signed up. You can also call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) and follow the prompts to be connected to our network library in your state. (But please be patient — because of service disruptions related to the coronavirus pandemic, libraries might be delayed in responding to your request.)
      –NLS communications & outreach staff member

  19. Donna Serna April 1, 2020 at 22:22

    I remember an eariler post by a Vet asking about mental health. I found this article, https://vaww.blogstest.va.gov/VAntage/73165/va-deploys-mobile-vet-center-units-increase-outreach-covid-19-outbreak

  20. Maria April 1, 2020 at 22:18

    Dv spouse; worked in ct as a dishwasher for the navy before marrying my husband. I am told I am an a**hole when it comes to the food safety of our military and there families. I ask if the restaurant is N.OSHA cert (navy certified) or i dont eat..
    THANKS FOR YOUR SERVICE and for your food service to the civs who may not know the hard work of makeing sure food is safe.

  21. ARTHUR BARNES April 1, 2020 at 22:10

    After 22 years in the United States Army + 8 years in the British Army traveling around the globe I wrote a biography showing it IS possible to raise a successful family….120 photos+ 10 maps… available insanityofwars.com It is a little expensive, but I am told it is worth it :-) A.David Barnes, former Royal Artillery, former RAMC, former US Army MC.

  22. Calvin Edgar Pletzer Jr April 1, 2020 at 22:07

    How do you get audible books if you have nothing to listen to them with? What equipment would be needed?

    • Mark Layman April 3, 2020 at 14:26

      Hello, Mr. Pletzer — NLS loans its patrons, free of charge, the playback equipment to use with its audio books and magazines. Patrons can also use our Braille and Audio Reading Download website to listen to audio books on their personal smart device (such as an iPhone or an Android phone). Any US resident or American citizen living abroad who has a visual or physical difficulty that makes it difficult to read regular print can enroll. They can fill out the short form at http://www.loc.gov/nls/enrollment-equipment/apply-for-nls-service/ and the NLS network library in their state will get in touch with them. Or they can call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) and follow the prompts to be connected to our network library in their state.
      — NLS communications and outreach staff member

  23. Scott Randolph April 1, 2020 at 22:07

    If I’m currently rated at 50% PTSD & 10% hearing (Somalia & Iraq) am I eligible for the government stimulus program? Semper Fi

  24. David Nichols April 1, 2020 at 22:01

    Bless you for your dedication and service to our veterans and country . Enjoy your retirement . USAF Disabled Vet .

  25. Lane Brent Cunningham April 1, 2020 at 21:55

    Listening to audio books will really help me.

  26. Brian Shade Jnr. April 1, 2020 at 21:42

    I am so happy to finally get a way to listen to free audiobooks. To be homebound is not an easy task, especially when I depend on everybody for everything, or maybe almost everything. I believe to have exhausted the allowable free subscription limit from Amazon before I found this information in my inbox. Thanks to whoever initiated this program.

  27. Sheila Young April 1, 2020 at 21:27

    Hello, I am a disabled veteran from Ohio, however, my disabilities are not the ones you describe as qualifying ones. I would like to receive audiobooks from your program, but I am not sure if I am eligible. I exited the Army in 1987. However, in 2011 I was involved in an automobile accident and as a result when reading, I cannot maintain focus, often reading the same thing several times, and after reading for more than 10 minutes, I get intense headaches. So since then I listen to audiobooks. I generally check them out from the library, as well as purchasing audio books from library sales. I would love to receive audiobooks from your program, but, as I stated, I am not sure if I qualify. Do I?

    • Mark Layman April 3, 2020 at 12:19

      Hello, Ms. Young — The best way to find out if you qualify is to contact the NLS network library that serves your part of Ohio. Just fill out the short form at http://www.loc.gov/nls/enrollment-equipment/apply-for-nls-service/ and someone from the library will get in touch with you. You can also call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) and follow the prompts to be connected to the library in Ohio. (But please be patient — because of service disruptions related to the coronavirus pandemic, libraries might be delayed in responding to your request.)
      –NLS communications & outreach staff member

  28. Robert Strickland April 1, 2020 at 20:44

    Is this for any kind of disability or just visual?

  29. Curt a. Hodapp April 1, 2020 at 20:35

    I am a disabled vet, but it is not corrected to any front line action. Am I eligible for this service?

    • Mark Layman April 3, 2020 at 12:14

      Hello, Mt. Hodapp–If you have a visual or physical disability that makes it difficult for you to read regular print, you are eligible to enroll in NLS. The disability does NOT have to be service-related. And while we’re proud to give priority service to veterans, any US resident or American citizen living abroad who qualifies can enroll. Just fill out the short form at http://www.loc.gov/nls/enrollment-equipment/apply-for-nls-service/ and the NLS network library in your state will get in touch with you. You can also call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) and follow the prompts to be connected to our network library in your state. (But please be patient — because of service disruptions related to the coronavirus pandemic, libraries might be delayed in responding to your request.)
      –NLS communications & outreach staff member

  30. Clarence M Drewry April 1, 2020 at 20:25

    I would like audio books.I had them on amazon but i was tired of paying high prices.

  31. Michael Ray Royse April 1, 2020 at 20:23

    I have a comment about what VA is done for me. They help me quite a lot in the area of medication in other ways,but with the capital requested a Walker because of my back but the Walker then I need it was an Upright Walker, VA could not prove it, I requested a folding power chair to get around when I have to go long distance,but again VA couldn’t approve it. Most of the equipment like walkers power chairs, I myself out of my own pocket paid for them.
    The only thing that I ask for VA is to get on the fast track and help approve be equipment that the veterans need, go outside of their so called contract people and start looking to the open market for help for veterans. I’m 72 years old a Vietnam veteran, I’m used to getting crap from people but not from my own country. I believe in President Trump and The United States. I believe in the people that has served in the military.

  32. Thomas Owens April 1, 2020 at 20:17

    If one is a veteran and suffer from PTSD and receive disability, how does one visually share this Information with others?

    The reason I ask: Recently I had the opportunity to attend an event that was free for “Active Duty Military” and “Disabled Veterans.” Of course, an active duty military merely has to display his/her military ID. But, what do I do?

    Your helpful consideration in answering and helping to resolve this issue will be greatly appreciated.

    Thomas Owens
    CW4, Aviation
    U S Army (Ret)
    PTSD Survivor

  33. Linda Harrover April 1, 2020 at 20:00

    I have about 400 audiobooks on CD that I would be willing to donate. They are in very good shape. If NLS is interested, please have someone contact me.

    • Mark Layman April 3, 2020 at 14:14

      Ms. Harrover — Thank you for the kind offer, but NLS doesn’t use CDs in its program. But I bet your local public library or a senior center or retirement community would be grateful for the donation!
      –NLS communications & outreach staff member

  34. Douglas Hendryx April 1, 2020 at 19:43

    Audio books. want

  35. B J Mac April 1, 2020 at 19:35

    As stated in the article itself ‘The books are available for free mail or downloadable.. but not where or how !!! Many times that is what the VA says but does not followup on and the veteran will have to hunt for that information. When I was in the hospital I was told the same thing and while I waited for the information my sister arrived from the New York (I was in Florida) she hooked me up with Libby Video Library recognized around the country. Check you public library they will give you more information. Unfortunately I am running out of my gener that are available. So I am going to audible one or two books a month for free. Good Luck. Hope it helps a little.

  36. Richard N Fennell April 1, 2020 at 19:30

    Can I get audio books?

  37. Darryl Jackson April 1, 2020 at 19:27

    Where’s the Link for Free Audiobook download???

    • George Thomas Goforth April 2, 2020 at 08:31

      I am a 100 percent disabled Vietnam Vet and would love to occasionally listen to a Free Audio-book. However, after reading all of this and after being asked to do a survey, I do not see any link that allows me to download one? If this is available, why is it so hard to figure out how to use it?

      • Mark Layman April 3, 2020 at 14:17

        Hello, Mr. Goforth — If your disability makes it difficult to read regular print, you are probably eligible to enroll in NLS. Just fill out the short form at http://www.loc.gov/nls/enrollment-equipment/apply-for-nls-service/ and the NLS network library in your state will get in touch with you. You can also call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) and follow the prompts to be connected to our network library in your state. (But please be patient — because of service disruptions related to the coronavirus pandemic, libraries might be delayed in responding to your request.)
        –NLS communications & outreach staff member

  38. Brian Dickinson April 1, 2020 at 19:24

    Blind Descent, is free on audible if you’re new to audible. It’s about my blind and solo Everest descent, but also includes my Navy SAR training and experience.

  39. Willie Smith Jr March 23, 2020 at 18:27

    Does anyone know if Veterans Disabie eligible for the money Congress consider for US Citizens??

    • GT April 1, 2020 at 19:32

      Yes, of course we are.

    • Keith Porter April 1, 2020 at 19:38

      only if you have taxable income

      • Hugh Ross April 2, 2020 at 08:43

        The ‘only if you have taxable income’ rule has changed as of May 30, 2020. Now it’s for anyone that filed in 2018 or 2019. You might want to update your statement please. In my case, as a Navy veteran, because I only have SS and a small work pension, I fall below the ‘taxable income’ line, paying zero for the last few years. According to the last I heard – I qualify.

        Now, I have a question. I have been collecting SSDI (disability insurance) which converted to standard SS on my birthday last December. I’m obviously still disabled I have macular degeneration in both eyes, confirmed by TRICARE VA). I would like to take advantage of the audio books – but the problem is the JOIN US page will not accept my address as I am in the Philippines, retired, even though the website says domestic and international veterans with a disability are qualified for the Audio Book program. So, I don’t know how to fix this. My mailing address is a VFW/RAO US Embassy approved post mailing address, but the online entry form you provide only accepts stateside zip codes, halting the progress of JOINing. Please help. … please contact me and serve ALL the disabled veterans, not just ones with a U.S. zip code. Thank You, Be Well, Stay safe out there.

    • Joe W Rogers April 1, 2020 at 19:52

      Yes you will receive the money. If you do not file income taxes each year go to irs.gov there will be a place you you can file a false tax return with your bank information so you can receive payment sooner. This site is not up as of today check once or twice a day.

    • Tom M. April 1, 2020 at 19:53

      Every citizen is entitled depending on your income. I believe it is if you made less than $99000 , you will receive $1200.

    • Kurt Prinz April 1, 2020 at 19:58

      I would say yes .
      Just have your last 2 Tax Returns available .

    • Ray Vet April 1, 2020 at 20:01

      Yes, but there appears to be a possible known issue. Anyone who doesn’t file taxes because their entire income is derived from government programs will not be recognized by the IRS. I hope this is addressed immediately.

    • Michael Scantling April 1, 2020 at 20:06

      Everything I’ve seen says yes.

    • CPatrick McIlvain April 1, 2020 at 20:17

      Yes, if you are speaking of the Stimulus Package that was passed and signed – I asked the very same question to my Member of Congress as I did not see – I receive a Non-Service Connected Disability Pension – I was told if a Vet gets their disability payment from Department of VA – yes…

    • Darrell Allen April 1, 2020 at 20:26

      Yes, Go to http://www.irs.gov to learn how. If you filed a tax return for 2018 or 2019 you will receive it automatically, if not you will need to follow their instructions.

    • dewayne jones April 1, 2020 at 20:55

      yes we are getting part of the stimulus payment

    • Hillard April 1, 2020 at 21:52

      I think if you file a 2019 tax return.

    • Scott Remy April 1, 2020 at 22:27

      Yes we are. Also people on SSD. I am on both.

    • Jill Wiscombe April 1, 2020 at 23:10

      Yes

    • Kimberly Bilberry April 2, 2020 at 00:33

      So far the answer is yes.

  40. James B Frank March 19, 2020 at 10:52

    Morning breakfast delivery.
    I’m an disabled air Force veteran that had been in the VA hospital primarily for respiratory illness. Up until today food delivery has been good. Breakfast has been hot and tasty, and on time. From day one I didn’t think I was getting enough food. So I’m always hungry, anxiously awaiting my next meal.
    This morning as time went on breakfast seems late. Around 8:10 I looked out my room door window,
    I could see my tray sitting on the opposite counter.
    There were several people gathered around it standing over my Tray talking which immediately annoyed me having spent over 40 years in the food hospitality industry in Madison.
    Many of those years I own my own restaurants.
    I immediately spoke up and said is that my breakfast tray they looked at the name said yes it was, I said you’re standing around my food tray talking really don’t care about delivering it. They started deflecting responsibility.
    Someone immediately brought it into me, looking at it I noticed my entree lid was open and sitting to the side, these lids are design quite heavy and not come off if jostled. Either in the kitchen they threw the lid over it not caring that it was seated properly or on the way up somebody picked up the lid to look at my food I didn’t place it back down properly.
    I ate my oatmeal drank my orange juice and decided to refuse my entree.They asked me if I wanted another entree, I said yes I would take one. Having thought about it for a minute I decided that’s not a good idea no telling what somebody might do to my food, so I refused another entree.
    Over the years I trained many flat top chefs.. I was always the hardest on my chefs. Always Demanding professionalism from all my employees especially my chefs. Our grill area was an exhibition flat top. We had one of the best tavern flat-top menus in the city.
    My family has been in the tavern business for 86 years in a very popular west side tavern which is still running under a different name.
    I write this in hopes that I’m not does not change my impression of the overall professionalism of the nursing staff the doctors and my overall care here has been excellent throughout my stay which is going on 2 weeks initially I’ve been intubated admitted with a severe case of flu.
    Madison VA is one of the top three in the country and I can see why. I applied for a job in their kitchen cost of a year ago they would have been very smart to hire me. This will be the end of my review thank you for taking the time to read James Frank . USAF

    • Stacy April 1, 2020 at 20:53

      Hi James, I hope you are feeling better and getting a better meal these days.

    • L Mann April 1, 2020 at 21:22

      Not the proper forum, to address this subjective complaint.
      USN Ret

    • K April 1, 2020 at 22:18

      Sir,
      I’m sorry to hear about your experience(s). I can totally understand your frustrations, and your worries. It is really difficult to give yourself over to caregivers, even if they have good hearts they do sometimes forget to treat us as people and as individuals. They do forget that we often are totally reliant on them when we are hospitalized, and we don’t get to “go home every night” when we are hospitalized, to our own refrigerators, our own rooms, the comfort of our own “stuff.” I’m also sad to hear of your respiratory issues and I know your illness must be taking a toll on you. Stay strong! Yes, it sounds like they missed an opportunity for betterment by not hiring you. I bet I enjoyed eating at your establishment in Madison when I lived there! Thank you, and stay strong – keep fighting and best wishes. A fellow “Army” vet.

  41. Drake March 19, 2020 at 01:03

    Can someone without disability get the book for a disabled person?

    • Brandi April 1, 2020 at 22:43

      Frank,
      I hope your nursing staff are thinking more carefully on presenting your food to you as well as more promptly. It was unprofessional, I hope you bring it up to your nurse if it continues and every resident will see the resident rights posted somewhere in the halls of the residence, there is info about the ombudsman who looks into residents rights violation if they continue to not be heard. To be honest it is hard for me to think that your staff wouldnt care about making the situation right for you, I am a CNA student currently and so much of what we are taught is centered on resident quality of life, the CNAs I train with as well as the current CNAs at our practice resident center are very compassionate, empathic and just helpful people. There are residents who voice sometimes loudly their needs arent being met and we go out of our way to make them content, with no retaliation to their items, we wouldnt mess with their food etc. I hope after awhile you can feel that the staff are making your needs a priority. I bet they would like to hear your stories of all the valuable knowledge and experience you have in the food hospitality system. I know I would, I know older folks hold a wealth of wisdom. Brandi former USAF and vet as well

    • Darin Woehl April 2, 2020 at 05:56

      Thanks for your service Mr Frank and sorry to hear about your breakfast issue. Lets hope this does not continue and please get better as you are needed!!! Best Regards, DW

  42. Todd Davis March 12, 2020 at 15:40

    I’d sure love to be able to have this I’m disabled veteran who loves books I just don’t know how to get it

    • Kristen Fernekes March 13, 2020 at 13:14

      Hi Todd,

      Please all 888-657-7323 an follow the prompts for the state where you live. Your state library will be happy to help you get enrolled.

    • Ray Vet April 1, 2020 at 19:56

      In addition to this program, you should be able to obtain free audiobook downloads from your local county/city library.
      All you have to do is get a library card.

  43. Steve Marietti March 11, 2020 at 20:56

    Godspeed on retirement Hon. David Szumowski!! I served with you in the San Diego DA’s office in 1998. Thank you for your sacrifice to our country!! Steve Marietti

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