I never used the VA health System for 35 years. I also inquired about a dental cleaning which I have been getting off campus. They have over 600 pages of medical records for the multitudes of surgeries, treatments, lab work, and final radical cystoprostatectomy 2018. Has it been found that it infected mechanics that worked on helicopters and airplanes that were used with agent orange? Just my venting and 2 cents worth, nothing more,nothing will change. So, my thoughts are that anyone that is reading this . When a Veteran mentioned he had only been out of the house three or four times in four years, his occupational therapy team sprung into action. We all know agent orange has a major affect on the respiratory system the could lead to COPD, FTVA! McHenry worked for years to correct what he argued was an error in that memo, which held there was no evidence of tactical herbicides having been used at American bases in Thailand. So besides having survived Vietnam, there was Aniston. This AO affected my circulatory system (heart), lungs (everything hits my lungs first), and other issues starting in my early 30s. Plus my 37 year old son has a large tumor in his spine! H.R.2569 - Veterans Agent Orange Exposure Equity Act 117th Congress (2021-2022) Bill Hide Overview More on This Bill Constitutional Authority Statement CBO Cost Estimates [0] Subject Policy Area: Armed Forces and National Security View subjects Summary (1) Text (1) Actions (3) Titles (2) Amendments (0) Cosponsors (14) Committees (1) I looked up, followed and had much respect for older folks, especially veterans and the advice they have given me. Jun 2, 2021 / 06:29 PM EDT. I am a VSO and I always get comments that the VA is That is partly correct. My loved one is in hospice at this moment any time hes going to be restored to the kingdom of God. Youll need prove you served in Vietnam (DD-214 should do it) and prove of your medical condition (doctors letters, etc). (They were glad to see me go). Good luck everyone getting what you deserve. Best advicedo the paperwork, get your service records, go the the VA and get an advocate. VA will send letters to impacted Veterans and survivors. The work was nasty, many chemicals, oils, fiberglass, the duct work in the avionics bay located in the nose was trashed. Asking them to do claims involving Chemical contamination is like asking a Janitor to build the space shuttle, and everyone knows it, but the games and waste of tax payer dollars continue as VA is a self run Government entity that can use logic to make decisions only assimilate like the Borg. That has been appealed with the help of the Dept of Veterans Affairs. https://www.nacvso.org/find_service_officers/category-865ca542-2c72-4d1a-adac-56061f573562.aspx. My lungs and Grovers Disease was not on their list. Could go on forever, but I should stop here. Im diabetic, have had two heart attacks, bladder cancer, and numerous other afflictions. I do not have diabetes either. The science now confirms the link. My husband was covered with the stuff in Vietnam and has multiple medical issues that he has been suffering since his late 40s. 807 Maine Ave., SW Washington, D.C. 20024 Phone (202) 554-3501 Fax (202) 863-0233 www.dav.org ISSUE BRIEF: Agent Orange in Thailand during Vietnam Era If, you do not have PD, you may be able to file for the new Parkinsom. A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. My husband, Tom Spinks died of Parkinsons Disease so I was reading about this and thought this may be a place to find Robert. Visit the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office. As a result, I was not affected by the many things agent Orange and the poison water from Lejuene contributed to my health. He developed T1 diabetes and died in 1996. My dad served the US Airforce in 1952 through unknown date due to his records was burned in the 1973 fire. He died of lung cancer and I was told after he died I could no longer proceed with our request. Didnt speak to anyone for a solid year unless I had to and finally got out USMC? I have developed arithmia, high blood pressure, diabetes and asthma. God help us! I was in VN 1968-69 , I have my bladder removed and prostate around 2002 at Palo Alto VA hospital in California ,all by cancer. Im not a Veteran either but I was born with the severest form of Spina Bifida. The bottom line is still that cases are NOT being dealt with in a timely manner, and additional illnesses are not being added to any list without first having one hell of a tough time being added. I resubmitted my claim July2019. We didnt know what killed all the vegetation in many areas on Searching and Destroy missions? He had filed an Agent Orange claim several times. What a slap in the face!! Then we have all the small contaminations, and one big area VA has been quiet on is all us who was working prior to 1995 jobs that used the same TCE and Benzene in water for our everyday careers, like Armorers, and some mechanics, etc VA dont look at Job hazards when working claims, and they say stupid stuff like your sleep apnea was not found in service, when Sleep apnea field of study did not exist when many of us was in service, of course it was not found. Our old family Country doctor is the one who finally broke the news to my brother and our mother. Sorry, but I dont have the time or ability to bear the burden of responsibility when it comes to proving this issue. They will also send you to outside doctors, to prove your claim, do not miss the The burn pits were operating no matter which way the wind was blowing. Chronic B-Cell Leukemia Iserved during the v nam war. Aside thought it would go away as it did some times at night after battle .talk to me V A . I have been hearing stories of other children coming down with CML of exposed Vietnam Vets. These men and women, and their families, have had to wait too damn long for this acknowledgement!!! During 2020-2021, VA and DoD updated the list of locations based on new information to several locations in the U.S. and oversees, including Thailand, Korea, and . I have lost a kidney to cancer, had stage 3 Lymph cancer treated, skin cancers, and colon cancer treatments. We have been fighting a long battle with no success! i have contacted attorneys to fight for me. Agent Orange is recognized for Parkinsons. They owe it to you. Agent Orange. I dont know dates ir anything and sadly my mother passed a few months back and I have no other family to ask. He served with 101st airborne in Vietnam in 67 and 68. The neuropathy is in my feet, legs and hands. All of my skin peeled off but no body was interested in my problems. However, VA's adjudication manual (M21-1) does recognize Vietnam-era veterans whose service involved duty on or near the perimeters of military bases in Thailand anytime between February 28, 1961 and May 7, 1975 may have been exposed to Agent Orange and may qualify for VA benefits. Our son was conceived when we lived there. I have had what they call jungle rot on my feet and hands that comes and goes. Thats what my husband did who has AO related cancer. When my husband died in 2010, he couldnt even find the paperwork to apply for a grave marker. The VA pats itself on the back for adding three presumptives but conveniently ignores the one with a solid link. Fumes over came and some had to be taken out in to fresh air. The name Robert Bustamante appears in several states. By 2014, the front and both sides of his brain completely shrank and was unable to comprehend judgment and needed full-time care. I know that they do help some veterans, but if they can lie out of helping, they will. Also contact your federal congressional Rep. in Washington and inform his office of your issue. Wasnt Agent Orange used in Vietnam? The PPA has not been considered. He kept his job until he died. I am looking for Robert? Would be taken on my claim. Because the government claims it was never there I have had no success in being compensated. have hearing loss. I had such a bad case of PTSD starting in 1969, I spent 6 weeks in a Navy mental ward at Millington NAS. When they say thank you for your service, usually it is meaningless. Just checking. March 3 (UPI) -- In a cost-saving move, retail giant Amazon announced Friday that it will delay construction on a planned second corporate headquarters dubbed "HQ2" in Arlington, Va. President Joe Biden thanks German chancellor for his nation's help in Ukraine. Lived for basically 5 months. Markers after three years are good thank goodness. Smfh!! In Thailand, Agent Orange was used to clear the jungle around bases, as a means to enhance security. See my reply to Paula where I mention the DNA effects that can be inherited by our children born after the exposure. This page list resources for Vietnam veterans exposed to agent organce, including certain Blue Water Navy veterans. Thank you for nothing. They treated us so well in Danville.. Comprehensive testing, detailed conversation and claims approved! I finally got FULL VA bendfits 45 years later only because I met a VET in Allentown, pa area and he GUIDED my through the process and actually took me to the Allentown VA and showed me where to go and what to expect when I had to see the PROFESSIONALS. If you set foot on a land mass (in Vietnam), youre entitled to a presumption that you have been exposed to herbicides, Rhode Island attorney Robert Chisholm said in an interview. Learn more about benefits related to Agent Orange exposure. VA announced today two major decisions related to presumptive conditions associated with Agent Orange and particulate matter exposures during military service in Southwest Asia. I spent a lot of time in those training areas and it would certainly explain my diabetes and kidney disease with no family history of either. while going through a colnoscopy when i was told they (the doctors and my team care givers) had been looking at my thyroid glans and let me know that they have concerns. Even if I never see one additional dollar in compensation, it makes my day to see them put in print that yes, Agent Orange exposure causes Hypothyroidism {Graves] Disease!!! What if your parent submitted a claim for a type of cancer that was only from exposure to agent orange, but passed away shortly after submitting the claim and received a letter stating that the claim was being looked into; does that have any validity to it? 2 [Discussion Draft] 1 SEC. A spokeswoman for the Air Force said neither the author of the AFHRA memo nor anyone else was available for an interview. I have been diagnosed with Parkinsons disease. My father was in Vietnam this same period he died 25 years ago from Pancreatic Cancer. But he sought (and seeks) compensation for pain and suffering. Veterans Agent Orange Exposure Equity Act, IRS begins making final stimulus payments from American Rescue Plan, GAO: VA suicide prevention teams need evaluation amid caseload growth, burnout, Woman's DDT exposure may affect granddaughter's health, study says. I have heard that it was used in Korea DMZ area until 1972.I know agent orange was used in Vietnam until 1975, so this makes me think the military would continue use in Korea also. In 2016 with the help of an attorney, was finally approved for Ischemic Heart Disease but only has a 60% disability rate. I knew there had been studies done on this connection and applied. a veterans office where they are located. I quit going to the VA for anything!!!! i was stationed in Blue Water off the coast of Vietnam from 1968-1971 on board the USS WICHITA AND THE USS ZELIMA, both of which carried munitions, fuel, food and supplies. Every sickness he had was documented in his medical records stating the main cause was due to Agent Orange and Other Health Factors. I would rather have died instantly on the battlefield with glory than suffer daily this slow death from Parkinsons developed from the toxic exposure from water at Camp Lejeune. That will make U.S. military veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange eligible for the VA's disability compensation benefits. What about me!!! Call toll-free at 1 (800) 700-4174 We're Ready to Listen Why? Our desalinators were unable to filter A/O from salt water. I still smell this shit today and my sinusitis claim was not service connected. For more information, visit our website at Airborne Hazards and Burn Pit Exposures Public Health. Army and was later diagnosed with Diabetes, hearing loss, Parkinsons and other health conditions and according to one doctor at the VA he was exposed to Agent Orange. I trusted the authorities in charge completely. An official website of theU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Looking for U.S. government information and services? Hes lived 3 decades with this and its a long suffering disease. Have never been able to figure out who he was :-( Good luck! How about the contaminated waters in Fort Dix, This can never happen again! My own was agent orange exposure which the VA acknowledges, yet say has nothing to do with my tremors, and they tell ME to prove it does. Hey, they can keep it and put it you know where. I check my status every week, still no decision. Thats where my father was and how I know he died! . A lock ( He had only 2 children, my brother and I. Without their help I doubt that it can be done!! Sorry this award came to late, We are the care takers of what they destroyed fur what, their greed. Does anybody know about it ? There are a couple of things that come to mind that you could try. My sense is these bills have a chance, but I just dont know how good a chance, attorney Chisholm said. I am happy for the Vietnam War veterans who are going to receive presumptive rating for their diseases. And BTW! I try to kick it by running and staying healthy but to no avail. I guess the VA is waiting for me to check out completely. His name was Mark (silver)Thorne. Each disease is rated from 5% to 100%, then You get a whole 10% for it! What about the drinking water at Camp Lejeune..v and prostate cancerv, what about soldiers exposed to shlt pits in Afghanistan. Came home on a Bipap and directions to use an oxygen concentrator and had to have tanks exchanged every month, I believe. No other family member has this condition. Never seems to end. Lung transplant, Nov 1st, 2014. I am amazed that the VA believes burn pit issues only affect those serving in the more recent SW Asia campaigns. Having grown up in Kansas I wish you good luck. A Maryland Democrat, David Trone, a member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, has introduced the latter piece of legislation. I served in B 217 Mech infantry out of Camp Kasier 68-69. was wondering what you have to do die to get something done. My husband Was in Korea in 1973 and 1974. What about bases here in the states that stored or disposed of barrels of Agent Orange, like Camp Pendleton? They used that letter repeatedly to deny claims, Mary Flodder, McHenrys widow, said in an interview. Currently, the Department of Veterans Affairs mandates that veterans who served in southeast Asian countries other than Vietnam during the war provide evidence of exposure to the herbicide in order to qualify for benefits. Agent Orange in Thailand. We need to be filling their mailboxes with our concerns as often as possible. It took a period of time because, at that time a US Navy Viet Nam veteran had to prove in country service connection. Tom had wished for years that he could find his friend. Im in pain everyday now, had 3 amputations, and not given any pain meds because it could be habit forming! Yeah As a BT we used gallons of Toulene No respirator Had oil tank overflow on to mess deck about 1 inch deep. Currently, Skinner hopes to make a case before a VA judge in perhaps a year, maybe longer. I am not a diabetic which seems to be one of the main items that is considered for VA benefits. Harmon said his sense is that once attorneys are involved, claims from veterans who served in Thailand can be settled in as quickly as six months. hypertension should be on that list of new presumptive illnesses it has been on the list to be added for the last 3 VA directors the NASE&M has deemed it linked to AO and the last few I believe had fears that adding that would be a BUDGET BUSTER and that is why it was and is not being added the last one of the leaders prior to this one started a new round of research on all of the presumed so that he wouldnt have to deal with the list that had been presented to him by the previous administrator the question still remains why a new review ? In one case, at Gulfport, Mississippi, new information received from a Veteran led to changes for that site on the list. Please reapply! Why wont the VA properly recognize my 100% physical disability obviously caused by exposure to Agent Orange for the last 40+ years??!!!! But somebody reviewed my application almost immediately (a good thing and to be commended) and determined that the request could proceed. I am 70. In I was told they received it to late and no further action Parkinsons is a presumptive disease which means you only have to prove you have it. I was in Khe Shan during Tet Offensive during 1967-68 and was sprayed continuously as the government tried to clear vegetation. He passed away in 2015 with heart failure and had skin cancer . I have heard that also, and was attached to the SeaBees Public Works, at NAS Agana, June 1974-November 1975so there is a chance we used the damned stuff to spray and had not a clue. Porphyria Cutanea Tarda (if it presents within one year of exposure to a degree of 10 percent disabling) A VSO will get you I am disappointed ive been fighting for my dad benefits only to be told no one can help me. Some men are so sick they might not be capable of having the clarity of mind to fight for their rights. My husband served 20 years in the USMC and served in the Vietnam War in 1968. I have had no status updates since Congressman Doug Lamalfa of California made an inquiry. Tell your Primary you need to see a Neurologist. Whiskey Tango Foxtrot? The VA is worse than the Post Office. When was this and what was this? So what about those who served from 83 86 that got bladder cancer. Maybe Ill still be alive! A Youngstown man exposed to agent orange settles with the VA but not as he wished. is not going to do anything unless forced tothen they will make a big deal about it,make sure everyone knows,then after a year maybe 2 they will start to reduce benefits, I have recurring bladder cancer, since 2005 it has come back several times, and also several times with precancerous cells that has to be lasered out,went from 100% reduced to 60% because the V.A. These include: At least Korean and Vietnam combat veterans should be 100%, eliminate the bureaucracy. My 51 years of marriage Vietnam war Vet is totally debilitated in every capacities , bedridden, wheelchair bound , totally blind , etc..he required More than 100% care by me and we both are in our seventy and suffering horrific bodily pain ! Husband had sinus and respitory issues for years. secondary diseases you can file a claim for. VA is initiating rulemaking to consider adding respiratory conditions, which may include asthma, sinusitis and rhinitis, to the list of chronic disabilities based on an association with military service in Southwest Asia, Afghanistan and Uzbekistan during the covered periods of conflict. I served at KADENA AFB on Okinawa from 1970 until 1972. I dont know if it was specific to Dong Ha. Major 321 MW solar farm in Texas moves close to a final investment decision. McDonough (Agent Orange exposure in Thailand) This case involved a US Army veteran (1967 to 1971) who was seeking service connection for hypertension, congestive heart failure, Type II diabetes, stroke, and atrial fibrillation due to agent orange exposure in Thailand during the Vietnam war. My husband did 2 tours in Vietnam and we were in the process of trying to see if he qualified for disability at but he died before we got to far along. These conditions include: Bladder Cancer Hypothyroidism : A condition occurs when the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones Will his claim be reviewed now in light of the new findings? Try getting your money back on any of this. I did go to the VA . Lack of a presumption of herbicide exposure does not prevent veterans from demonstrating through competent evidence that they were exposed to herbicidal agents and that such exposure is sufficiently related to a current disability to warrant disability compensation.. God bless, I hope somehow something proper comes your way. I was told then that the VA will have your teeth cleaned and thats all they are authorized to do. I hope this isnt a Hurry up and wait. Im 75 and i am sick and tired of being lied too. They do a real good job getting through all the red tape. The planes were routinely decontaminated after they landed on the carriers. Those who had served at one of the military bases in Thailand listed in the below URL and the locations at those bases identified, and experiencing any of the ailments considered possibly caused by Agent Orange (including prostate cancer) may now be eligible for VA treatment and compensation. Contact DAV they will help you get started and shepherd your claim through. Some have won on appeal.. I was also told that because I was able to raise my extremely arthritic arms over my head that I should be fortunate that the VA doesnt take away my disability benefits altogether. Last his sight basically overnight when the inflammation hit the optic nerve. I installed telephones and all associated equipment in outline areas. I periodically return to refile so that my family will have something to pester them with after I pass. No one ever told me and zi was too busy trying to survive and raise two kids with a bad case of PTSD and other conditions that affected them! You submit a claim, Harmon said. I do have one subjection: STOP starting wars. I got nothing for that. Just how much can one family take we keep dieing!!! Good to know that maybe in another 20 or 25 years they might actually get off their butts and help us too. I now suffer from diabetes and heart disease. I was exposes to the toxic water, ( when I say exposed, I mean drinking, cooking and bathing in it) and developed hypothyroidism in my mid 40s. ABF3 USS HORNET (CVS-12). My daughter was born with autism. Please, if anyone else has been diagnosed with Aphasia, or PPA -Primary Progressive Aphasia, please contact me. quadruple bypass Parkinsons like syndrome Unfortunately we didnt learn anything with the AO exposure. And as I didnt know then and only got a clue in 1987 well I was screened for agent orange I have been expected to prove that peripheral neuropathy was from my time in that country. They can never repay me for my loses or my daughters! Just my own opinion, I have all but given up even trying. I was at a base camp in South Vietnam when after taking a short shower, ( limited water ) a chopper flew overhead and spraying Agent Orange in the tree lines when I got another shower, Agent Orange! Anyone out there know anything about vets and scleroderma? Come guys -get serious you know it was all over that island! Now I have all kinds of wonky neurological problems and autoimmune disease. Try to have ALL documents needed for the claim and include docs from research papers on UNDIAGNOSED ILLNESSES IN THE GULF as well as docs on presumptive Diseases from GWI(gulf war illnesses). A two-year investigation (2018- 2019) by DoD found no use, storage or transport of Agent Orange or other tactical herbicides in Guam, Okinawa, Panama, or a number of other countries where there had been speculation of use.