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Richmond, Va. – Many McGuire VAMC Veterans have incredible stories of courage and bravery. As service members they’ve had to tap in to their inner strengths and to be prepared to face the unknown. The days of military service may be completed; however, when faced with cancer, the Veteran is once again facing the unknown.

The Richmond VAMC Hematology/Oncology Clinic wanted an additional method to help Veteran patients cope. The clinic team’s philosophy is that the patient and clinical staff are comrades battling cancer. In addition to providing excellent clinical care, the team wanted to demonstrate patient support and provide them with hope.

Through the support of American Legion Post 284, the clinic installed a wall mounted bell plaque for patients to “ring” at the completion of their treatment. The words on the plaque state, “ring this bell three times well, a toll to clearly say, this course is run and I am on my way.”

The bell has been a small addition to the Clinic, but has generated big results, a Veteran recently stated at the end of his treatment, “ Finally! I get to ring that bell, it feels great to be done.”

Darlene Edwards
Public Affairs Officer
Richmond VAMC

Darlene.Edwards@va.gov