I doubt many realize that veteran’s family members are not covered for any health care services.  A lot of basic health care that people take for granted, like dental and vision, are all but impossible for families living on a veteran’s pension. The Stand Downs can be a lifeline for many veterans and their families.

As the wife of a veteran, I just recently was made aware that the Kitsap Stand Downs are open to a veteran’s family so I went to the Sept. 13 Stand Down in hopes of getting help: glasses and dental care. I was pleasantly amazed!

I’ve needed new glasses for more than five years now, the ones I had were the wrong prescription and my contact lenses are unbearable to wear due to allergies and their age. Thanks to the Bremerton Lions Club, I have a new pair of glasses and can see details on trees, birds and traffic signs.  With two weeks I had an appointment to see Dr. Michael J. McKinney at Visual Connection in Bremerton. Dr. McKinney fitted me with glasses and for the first time I can actually see better with my glasses than with my contacts.

I am grateful to the Bremerton Lions Club for the new glasses!

I was also given a dental appointment for the week of the Stand Down at Robert Guerin DMD’s office where a wonderful group of dentists and dental assistants were volunteering their Saturday to offer dental care to veteran’s and their families. I was able to get my teeth cleaned for the first time in t10 years. I’m grateful for these volunteers.

In addition to vision and dental needs we were offered legal aid, health care items, food, clothing, items and services that can make a big difference in the lives of veterans and their families. It’s important for Kitsap County to be able to continue this service. It’s vital that the Veteran and Human Services Levy pass on Nov. 8.

Jane Ramirez