VA North Texas Health Care System

05/29/2026

Stay healthy this BBQ season with these food safety tips :

⏰ Don’t leave food out for more than 2 hours.

🧊 Refrigerate leftovers right away so that the internal temperature reaches 41°F or below within 6 hours.

🚫 Don’t take chances with your health! If you don’t know how long food has been sitting around, toss it out.

05/29/2026

Today's is Nathan Cejka, an ER Staff Nurse at the VA.

Nathan's journey to the VA is marked by service and unique experiences. He served in the US Army for 4 years as a 13M MLRS Artilleryman, deploying to Baghdad, Iraq for 15 months. After his time in combat, Nathan pursued a new path in nursing, studying in Germany and becoming fluent in German. "I even took my exams and wrote my papers for nursing school in German... no English," he shares.

Nathan's global perspective and language skills are valuable assets in his role as an ER Staff Nurse. He can connect with a diverse range of Veterans, providing compassionate care in their time of need. Nathan's military background gives him a deep understanding of the experiences of his fellow Veterans, allowing him to deliver personalized, empathetic attention.

Through his service and continued contributions, Nathan embodies the values of the VA. His story highlights the many ways Veterans leverage their unique skills and experiences to make a positive impact after their time in uniform. We honor Nathan Cejka for his service to our nation, his trust in the VA, and his embodiment of the .

Thank you, Nathan, for your service and your continued dedication to the care of Veterans. Your work undoubtedly makes a profound difference in the lives of those you serve, reflecting the very best of the VA's commitment to those who have served.

05/28/2026

Even if to***co use is part of your daily routine, or you’ve tried quitting before, or you’re worried about withdrawal symptoms, you have the power to reclaim your life.

Need guidance on how to stay away from to***co? Talk to trained quit coaches who will help you during any phase of quitting.

Call the VA to***co quitline at 1-855-QUIT-VET or visit Mentalhealth.va.gov/MENTALHEALTH/quit-to***co/quit-vet.asp

05/28/2026

If you receive a bill for emergency su***de care, the VA will expedite the review. Get the care you need when you need it with the COMPACT Act. https://www.va.gov/cincinnati-health-care/stories/what-does-compact-act-mean-for-veterans/

05/27/2026

05/27/2026

Today's is Tobi DePriest, an ER Registered Nurse at the Dallas VA.

Tobi's journey to the VA began in nursing school, where she had the opportunity to gain experience at the VA. "The first time I came here it had so much personality and was so different from other outside hospitals that I knew immediately that the VA was where I needed to work," she recalls. For 6 years, Tobi has dedicated herself to the VA's mission, providing compassionate care to Veterans in the ER.

Tobi's role is critical, ensuring Veterans receive timely, high-quality attention in moments that matter most. Her dedication to the VA stems from a deep respect for the organization's unique culture and commitment to those who have served. Through her work, Tobi embodies the values of the VA, making a tangible difference in the lives of Veterans.

We honor Tobi DePriest for her service to the VA and her embodiment of the . Her story is a powerful reminder of the many ways dedicated nurses serve Veterans and their communities, inspired by a deep sense of purpose and devotion.

Thank you, Tobi, for your service and your unwavering dedication to the care of Veterans. Your work undoubtedly makes a significant difference in the lives of those you serve, reflecting the very best of the VA's commitment to those who have served.

05/26/2026

Is a Veteran in your life hesitant about reaching out for support?

Sometimes, hearing from someone who has been there makes all the difference.

Hear from Veterans about what encouraged them to seek mental health care. https://www.maketheconnection.net/MHM/

05/25/2026

Your liver works hard for you; take a moment to protect it. Hepatitis Awareness Month is a reminder that hepatitis A, B, and C can affect liver health, often without symptoms. Testing and treatment can make a life-changing difference. Veterans, talk with your provider about screening and protecting your liver: www.hepatitis.va.gov

05/25/2026

On Memorial Day, we honor all who gave their lives defending our nation. We pause to pay tribute to their patriotism. Their sacrifice is remembered, today and always.

05/25/2026

Experts recommend non-drug methods of managing low back pain as a first line of treatment, and yoga is on the list of safe and effective ways to manage pain.

05/24/2026

Today's is Kristian Dejesus-Ofray, an ER Health Care Technician at the Dallas VA.

Kristian, or Kris, has brought dedication and compassion to his role at the VA for 2 years. While his work in the ER is his focus at the VA, in his personal life, Kris has a passion for cooking. "I am actually a great cook!" he shares. "I typically cook for my family. I have been cooking for my mom since I was 9 years old." Cooking holds a special place in Kris's heart, reminding him of his mother and his Puerto Rican roots.

Kris's ability to connect with others serves him well in his role as a Health Care Technician. He provides essential support to the ER team, ensuring Veterans receive the care they need. Through his work, Kris embodies the VA's commitment to serving those who have served. We honor Kristian Dejesus-Ofray for his service to the VA and his embodiment of the .

Thank you, Kris, for your service and your dedication to the care of Veterans. Your work undoubtedly makes a significant difference in the lives of those you serve, reflecting the very best of the VA's commitment to those who have served.