War Amps announces collaborative partnership with Veterans Affairs Canada in assisting veteran amputees

QUEBEC CITY, Nov. 24, 2015 /CNW/ - The War Amps is pleased to announce that it has entered a Collaborative Partnership with Veterans Affairs Canada to share knowledge and expertise that will enhance the care of veteran amputees. 

The formal announcement of the signing of a Collaborative Partnership between The War Amps and Veterans Affairs Canada took place today at the Hilton Quebec in Quebec City during the 6th Annual Canadian Institute for Military and Veteran Health Research Forum. The three-day Forum brings together top researchers, academics, military personnel, veterans and family members, with focus on the physical and mental health of Canada's veterans.

"This Partnership formalizes the commitment of The War Amps in addressing the needs of the Traditional and Modern-Day veteran amputee," said Brian Forbes, Chairman of The War Amps Executive Committee.

He added, "There is no higher obligation on Canada and the veterans' community than the responsibility to address the needs and requirements of seriously disabled veterans and their families. This Partnership provides a tremendous opportunity to share our knowledge and we look forward to continuing to actively work with Veterans Affairs Canada in attaining this objective."

Mr. Forbes noted that The War Amps is approaching its 100th anniversary of assisting veteran amputees, and is therefore uniquely positioned to understand the challenges they face. The Association also helps them obtain the full range of benefits they are entitled to.

"The War Amps acts as a vital navigator to help veteran amputees through the complexities of transitioning out of the military into civilian life, and understanding how the New Veterans Charter applies to them in accessing and understanding their full benefits and entitlements," he said.

Karen Valley, Director of The War Amps National Amputee Centre, who took part in the announcement today, pointed out the many things the Association can provide to those adjusting to living with amputation. "We have a wealth of information regarding amputation, artificial limbs and related topics and, just as importantly, we can provide the reassurance to veteran amputees through both support and tangible examples that it is completely possible to live a full and positive life with amputations."

"Veterans and their families have earned our respect and gratitude. This collaborative partnership between Veterans Affairs Canada and The War Amps demonstrates our mutual commitment to partner in sharing knowledge and experience, and improving the lives of Veteran amputees and their families," said the Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence. "I understand very well the daily challenges they face and organizations such as War Amps have a wealth of expertise to share. Together, we will change the lives of Veterans and their families, within their communities and across Canada."

The War Amps has a similar Collaborative Partnership with the Department of National Defence in regard to Canadian Armed Forces Personnel who have suffered amputation, providing assistance prior to their release and during their transition to Veterans Affairs.

SOURCE War Amps

To contact Ms Valley, please call [phone], Communications at 1877 60MEDIA or email [email protected]. Outside of office hours November 21-25, please contact [phone].