Ann Chiappetta

Making Meaningful Connections

Surprise

| Filed under writing

I just recently surpassed my first year anniversary being employed full time for the Office of Veterans Affairs. The year went by quickly but was also difficult for me due to being blind. Some of it was on my end and some of it was on the V.A. end and most of it was all due to the fact that the V.A. technology was far from being current. I’m glad to say, though, that we’ve gotten over the first hump. This is a wonderful surprise because Central Office actually listned to my requests even if it took a whole year and a formal complaint to get there.

Another surprise was the knowledge that I am purportedly the only blind counselor among thousands who had the gumption to complian while also being employed as a counselor. So, folks, this means I’m an enigma, and exception. A front runner for the blind and visually impaired counselors employed by the VA Vet Centers Nationwide.

I find this hard to believe, but so far no one else has identified themselves since I came on board.
Sure, there have been, and still are, blind psychologists and rehab counselors. But I’m the first family therapist.

It’s really quite weird and I don’t want the label. I just want to do my job and at the end of the day, take pride in knowing I did good.

You must be logged in to post a comment.