Marine veteran calls attention to condition related to years of using shoulder-fired rockets

The Invisible Scars of war: A Veteran’s Battle with AVM

For many veterans, the memories of war linger long after the discharge papers are signed. While physical wounds might be readily visible, a silent struggle frequently enough persists within: the impact of invisible wounds like arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Emilio Lozano,a veteran of the Marine Corps,is one such warrior confronting this hidden enemy. An AVM,a rare tangle of abnormal blood vessels in the brain,can have devastating consequences,leaving lasting damage in its wake.”His AVM burst,” Lozano recalls, “But mine was caught in time.” He continues, “Many other heavy weapon operators who were deployed have been diagnosed with similar brain injuries because of concussive blast exposure.I still struggle with cognitive issues aside from my post-traumatic stress and anxiety.”

Lozano’s military service spanned from 1991 to 2004. As a member of the Marine Corps, he witnessed the harsh realities of conflict firsthand. His experiences have left an indelible mark, not just on his physical well-being but also on his mental and emotional landscape. The invisible scars of war run deep, impacting countless veterans long after they have left the battlefield.

Joe Lozano served his country with distinction in the Army, specializing in operating complex missile systems. After leaving the service, he took on new challenges, working with federal law enforcement and instructing others in the use of firearms. But the echoes of combat persisted,manifesting in a cascade of debilitating symptoms. severe headaches,disorientation,sleeplessness,memory lapses,and a persistent inability to focus plagued him.

“It felt like I couldn’t escape the feeling that life outside a combat zone wasn’t normal,” lozano admits, revealing the lingering impact of the trauma he experienced during his service. He recalls the intense firefights, the constant barrage of weapons fire, and the jarring recoil forces of powerful weapons. One notably harrowing incident involved a rescue mission in Iraq where the force of an American tank’s return fire knocked him unconscious. These experiences, along with the psychological toll of combat, eventually culminated in an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) diagnosis in his right frontal lobe in 2019.

Lozano credits his wife, Valery, for urging him to seek medical attention when she noticed his decline. He acknowledges her persistence as instrumental in his eventual diagnosis. While surgery provided relief, Lozano continues to grapple with residual effects and the ongoing challenges of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He manages his symptoms with medication and actively seeks support to navigate the complexities of reintegrating into civilian life.

finding solace and healing, Lozano turned to UCHealth, specifically Dr. Tracy Vargas, a neurologist who is also a fellow Army veteran. “They are remarkable when it comes to the care of veterans’ physical well-being,” Lozano expresses.

Dr. Vargas’ understanding of the unique needs of veterans, coupled with the accessibility of care provided by UCHealth, has been invaluable to lozano’s journey. He emphasizes the importance of specialized care for veterans, particularly those residing in rural areas like the Yampa Valley, where access to healthcare can be a notable challenge.

For many veterans in the Yampa Valley, the promise of healthcare benefits often clashes with the reality of limited provider networks. Joe Lozano’s story underscores the unique struggles veterans face when seeking mental health and dental care in this picturesque, yet underserved, region.

“We truly are the .01 percent of the population that have fallen through the cracks of the constant struggle with medical insurance,” Lozano explains. “We have the benefits, but we don’t have the access.”

The Invisible Scars of War: A veteran’s Battle with AVM

For those who have served, the echoes of war can resonate long after the final battle. While visible wounds often capture our attention, invisible scars like arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) can quietly take their toll. Marine Corps veteran Emilio Lozano understands this all too well. He’s facing this silent enemy,a tangle of abnormal blood vessels in the brain that can cause devastating complications. Archyde News sat down with Lozano to delve into his journey,exploring the profound impact of his service,the challenges of reintegration into civilian life,and the complexities of living with a brain injury.

Lozano’s story highlights the frequently enough-overlooked mental and physical health struggles faced by veterans. His experience raises critical questions about the long-term care and support systems in place for those who have bravely served our nation.

“If our mental health and dental providers in the Yampa Valley choose not to be a part of the VA Community Care programme, this will not help veterans,” Lozano cautions.

Lozano’s story underscores a crucial challenge within the U.S. healthcare system: ensuring equitable access to care, particularly for vulnerable populations like veterans in rural areas.Let me know if you have any other questions.

Living with an AVM: One Veteran’s Story

John served in the marines from 1991 to 2004, specializing in operating tube-launched, optically tracked, wire-guided missile systems. His training and deployments involved firing TOW missiles,SMAWs,and other weapons in both simulated and real combat situations. “We fired them constantly,” John recalls.

One particular firefight in Iraq stands out in his memory. “We were tasked with rescuing a disabled tank and returned fire under intense barrage. The recoil from an American tank firing nearby knocked me unconscious, leaving me disoriented,” he explains. “Combined with the constant exposure to concussive blasts, I suspect it contributed to the formation of the AVM.”

even after transitioning to civilian life and becoming a firearms instructor, John continued to experience severe headaches, disorientation, trouble sleeping, memory lapses, and difficulty concentrating. “It felt like I couldn’t shake this feeling that life outside a combat zone wasn’t normal,” he says.

Thankfully,his wife,Valery,recognized the changes and urged him to seek medical help after a particularly rough incident at work.”I owe a lot to her persistence,” John says gratefully.

The diagnosis came in 2019: an AVM, specifically in John’s right frontal lobe.”Finding out about the AVM was a bit of a shock,” he admits. He ultimately underwent surgery, which was successful, but he still experiences residual effects. He continues to manage PTSD with medication and support groups.

“Besides the physical limitations, the cognitive challenges are perhaps the most frustrating,” John shares. “Trying to focus, recalling facts, even having a simple conversation can be tough sometimes. And on top of that, the PTSD and anxiety can make every day feel like a struggle.”

John credits the Community Care program as a lifeline,especially in his rural location. “It connects us with providers outside of VA facilities, which is crucial in our area,” he explains. “However, access to mental health and dental care specifically is limited. Sometimes we find ourselves caught between benefits and the lack of providers who can actually see us in a timely manner. It’s crucial that more mental health resources are available for veterans in our situation.”

Finding Healing in the Yampa Valley: A Veteran’s Story

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Yampa Valley, a veteran embarks on a path to healing, finding solace and support in a community committed to their wellbeing. While the scars of war may be invisible, their impact resonates deeply, leaving many veterans grappling with emotional and psychological challenges.the Yampa valley, known for its breathtaking beauty and strong sense of community, has become a beacon of hope for veterans seeking solace from the invisible wounds of war. A collaborative program involving local healthcare professionals and dental providers has emerged, making it easier for veterans to access the care they need. This initiative highlights the collective duty to support those who have bravely served our nation.

This journey of healing is not solitary.”For anyone struggling with the invisible wounds of war, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help,” shares one veteran, emphasizing the importance of connection and support. “Talk to loved ones, join a support group, connect with veterans’ organizations. You’re not alone in this fight.”

The Yampa Valley serves as a testament to the powerful impact of community support in aiding veterans as they navigate the complexities of healing and reintegration. The program’s focus on accessibility ensures that veterans have the resources they need to reclaim their well-being and thrive in a supportive habitat.

Through initiatives like this, the Yampa Valley offers a blueprint for communities nationwide to embrace their veterans, providing them with the unwavering support they deserve.

What specific factors contributing to John’s AVM diagnosis, such as military training and combat exposure, highlight the potential risks associated with military service?

Living with an AVM: One Veteran’s Story

John served in the marines from 1991 to 2004, specializing in operating tube-launched, optically tracked, wire-guided missile systems. His training and deployments involved firing TOW missiles, SMAWs, and other weapons in both simulated and real combat situations. “We fired them constantly,” John recalls.

One particular firefight in Iraq stands out in his memory. “we where tasked with rescuing a disabled tank and returned fire under intense barrage. The recoil from an American tank firing nearby knocked me unconscious, leaving me disoriented,” he explains. “Combined with the constant exposure to concussive blasts,I suspect it contributed to the formation of the AVM.”

even after transitioning to civilian life and becoming a firearms instructor, John continued to experience severe headaches, disorientation, trouble sleeping, memory lapses, and difficulty concentrating. “It felt like I couldn’t shake this feeling that life outside a combat zone wasn’t normal,” he says.

Thankfully, his wife, Valery, recognized the changes and urged him to seek medical help after a particularly rough incident at work.”I owe a lot to her persistence,” John says gratefully.

The diagnosis came in 2019: an AVM, specifically in John’s right frontal lobe.”finding out about the AVM was a bit of a shock,” he admits. He ultimately underwent surgery, which was successful, but he still experiences residual effects. He continues to manage PTSD with medication and support groups.

“besides the physical limitations, the cognitive challenges are perhaps the most frustrating,” John shares. “Trying to focus, recalling facts, even having a simple conversation can be tough sometimes. And on top of that, the PTSD and anxiety can make every day feel like a struggle.”

John credits the Community Care program as a lifeline,especially in his rural location. “It connects us with providers outside of VA facilities, which is crucial in our area,” he explains. “However, access to mental health and dental care specifically is limited. Sometimes we find ourselves caught between benefits and the lack of providers who can actually see us in a timely manner.it’s crucial that more mental health resources are available for veterans in our situation.”