I was frightened by the experience.

My first visit to the VA clinic was in the very early stages

of my discharge for my Army service.

At that time, I don't believe that I was ready

and I was frightened by the experience

because I was the only woman in the waiting room

and it was the mid 90's

and things have changed so much since then.

So I went back in the late 90's and I've been going there ever

since advocating for myself by just showing up

and utilizing the services that are available.