Veteran Support

Parkinson’s disease is affecting Veterans at a much higher rate. The PACT act of 2022 gave presumptive service connection for Veterans who served in Vietnam and other nearby areas during the Vietnam war.
Post Vietnam veterans are not currently eligible to receive VA disability benefits unless they were diagnosed while on active duty or within a year after leaving active duty. It may also be approved if you have a documented history of a traumatic brain injury or in some cases exposure to toxins or stationed at Camp Lajeune during certain dates.
I speak about my role as an advocate for Veterans and answer questions.
If you are a Veteran and have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it is still a good idea to go ahead apply for VA disability benefits. You will get evaluated and be given a percentage rating of your current disability, but it will not yet be service connected unless you meet the above criteria.


My trip to Philly to speak to VA physicians and leaders who take care of Veterans with Parkinson’s Disease
by Sara Whittingham MD September 28, 2024 Earlier this week, I had the privilege of speaking at a national conference for VA neurologists and care team members dedicated to supporting Veterans with Parkinson’s disease. My goal was to share my personal journey and experiences with applying for VA benefits, highlighting the
Advocacy for Post 9/11 Veterans with Parkinson’s Disease
by Sara Whittingham MD About 18 months after my Parkinson’s diagnosis, I learned through a mutual friend that one of our US Air Force Academy track teammates, Jana had also been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Jana is also a physician and also deployed to Afghanistan the same year that I had