Veteran News

December 2025, Vol. 19, Issue 12

It’s winter weather season.
Are you ready?

Weather.gov – Winter storms can bring snow, sleet, and freezing rain to regions across the United States. Being prepared in advance can help you avoid significant challenges when severe winter weather strikes.

Before acting, it’s essential to understand the various winter weather warnings and advisories issued by the National Weather Service. If you need to travel, make sure to check conditions both where you are and your destination. Pay attention to factors such as construction, snow, and ice that may affect your route.

When preparing for winter weather, it’s important to have the following supplies on hand:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio or portable radio to receive emergency updates – these may be your only link to the outside world.
• Extra food and water – Choose high-energy, non-perishable foods, such as dried fruit or candy, that do not require cooking or refrigeration.
• Extra medicine and baby supplies
• First-aid kit
• Heating fuel – Fuel deliveries may be delayed for several days during severe winter storms.
• Emergency heating sources (fireplace, wood stove, space heater, etc.)
  • Learn to use them safely to prevent fires.
  • Ensure proper ventilation.
• Fire extinguisher and smoke detector
  • Test these units regularly to ensure they function properly.

Reviews help us not only improve our products and services but also let others know that Mid-Cities Medical cares about delivering “World-Class Customer Service.”

Holiday Travel Notice Requirements

As more patients are missing the required two-week travel notice, we want to stress the importance of timely communication. This policy helps ensure smooth coordination and prevents service disruptions.

If at least 14 days’ notice is not given, the VAMC may refuse to cover transportation costs. In that case, patients will be responsible for:

• Arranging and paying for their own oxygen services
• Handling any required services at their destination
• Covering all travel costs until VAMC coordination resumes

NOTE: To guarantee availability and proper coordination, please submit your request at least 14 days in advance – 30 days is preferred.

This policy covers both outbound and return travel. Patients returning to the area should contact us 14-30 days in advance to document their request, complete necessary paperwork, and be added to the appropriate branch’s route.

Mid-Cities Medical strives to accommodate all patients but cannot guarantee service for last-minute or short-notice requests. Early planning ensures smooth coordination and uninterrupted care.

If you would like to download a print-version of this or previous month’s newsletter, including additional content, monthly calendar, word search, recipes, etc…

Give the Gift of Life – Donate Blood

DHA – For many, the most meaningful gift during the holidays is one that can save lives – donating blood. The Armed Services Blood Program (ASBP) invites you to join this lifesaving mission. Your donation supports Veterans and their families during critical times and helps maintain a reliable supply of blood products worldwide.

Historically, blood donations decline during the holiday and winter seasons, making this gift even more vital. By giving blood, you make an immediate and tangible impact on the military community.

Since 1962, the ASBP has been committed to providing high-quality blood products and support to military healthcare operations worldwide. From the battlefield to local hospitals, the program ensures blood is available whenever and wherever it’s needed. As the official blood program of the United States military, the ASBP collects, processes, stores, transports, and distributes blood to service members, their families, retirees, and veterans – during both peace and wartime.

This holiday season, give a gift that truly saves lives.

“Freedom isn’t free. We will remember all those that have given their lives for our country. Thank you for your service.”

Holiday Season Fire Safety

The holiday season is marked by festive celebrations, twinkling lights, and evergreen trees – but these traditions can also pose serious fire risks. Fire safety becomes especially critical from late November through mid-January, when holiday travel increases and families gather.

Decorating is a favorite activity for many during the holiday season. However, it’s important to remember that more than one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles, and most holiday tree fires are caused by electrical issues or dry trees. Take a moment to follow these simple safety steps to keep your home and family safe while enjoying festive activities:

• Check holiday lights each year; toss any with damaged cords or loose bulbs.
• Use a single, long extension cord. Don’t link multiple cords.
• Keep outdoor connectors off the ground and away from metal gutters.
• Turn off all lights before leaving home or going to bed.
• Ensure artificial trees are labeled “fire resistant.”
• Pick a fresh live tree, keep it 3+ feet from heat sources, and don’t block doorways.
• Water your tree daily and trim 2-inches off the trunk for better absorption. Dry trees are dangerous.

Mid-Cities Medical has partnered with local, regional and national providers to assist individuals in identifying and overcoming barriers in order to have the services and supports that meet your individual strengths, abilities, priorities, and needs.

3017 Red Hawk Drive
Grand Prairie, Texas 75052

(888) 450-6676 Toll Free (TX)

Patient Care: 24/7/365
Emergency: Call 911

(833) 986-4267 Toll Free (AZ & CA)