Testimonial from John Henry, 2009

To Whom It May Concern,

This weekend, I went to my mailbox and found a packet of information from the Veteran's Administration letting me know that the application for non-service-related pension benefits, that we had submitted on behalf of my 94-year-old father, was APPROVED! I was also thrilled to see that the payments Dad will be receiving will be retroactive to the time when the application was filed...in our case, this was 6 months ago! (Yes, it can take this long, or perhaps even longer, so hang in there!)

Over a year ago, I had gone on-line to the VA's website to try to locate the VA's pension benefit application forms. I had heard that a program existed where you could obtain benefits, but this is not publicized and you have to really dig to get any information at all about it. And then, when you finally find, request, and receive the forms, there are so many, and they are so complicated to fill out (even for a college graduate!). I've since learned that most people who try to handle this themselves fail to submit the forms precisely the way the VA wants them filled out. This causes the applications to be rejected and you have to start all over again. Meanwhile, the months continue to fly by.

Well, after I had finally received the forms from the VA, I was about half-way through them when I was fortunate enough to hear about a special seminar, to be given by Galen Maddy of The Veteran's Friend, a group who helps people like my Dad, obtain the VA benefits that they are entitled to. Galen came to the assisted living facility at which my Dad resides and spoke about his organization and how he might be able to help those of us trying to obtain benefits, either for ourselves, or for our parents or relatives.

Frankly, after I heard Galen's presentation, I was a bit skeptical as it all sounded way too good to be true... that there was actually an organization that counseled with you, handled all the necessary paperwork for you, and even engaged the services of an elder law attorney to make sure the forms are submitted to the government's exact specifications -- all at no cost to the applicant! Well, all those concerns turned out to be groundless. Once you meet Galen (and Kate) and have a chance to sit down with him one-on-one, it doesn't take very long to see that Galen genuinely enjoys helping people and better yet, has learned, over several years, the ins and outs of successfully navigating the complex application process for this valuable, but little known, veteran's benefit.

I encourage anyone reading this to give Galen a call to see if he can help you or your loved one. In my case, he did that in spades and as of this weekend, I can tell you the results are very tangible. Because of Galen's expertise and assistance, my Dad will now be able to significantly extend the amount of time he is able to stay at his assisted living facility.

Galen and Kate: I'm very grateful for what you've been able to do for my Dad. I also want to thank you both personally for your generosity, kindness, and excellent service...and yes, your patience with me through all my questions!

Sincerely, - John Henry