Ian MacLeod

Fifty-three year old Vietnam Era vet, former USN Hospital Corps, now disabled, was being seen through VAMC Portland, Oregon; now abandoned by VA using Wa. State "Guidelines" and distortions of my medical records, some of which have been conveniently "lost", including one full year, and a stack of favorable psych evals now lost from my records at VAMC Portland for the 4th time. Former paramedic (with neonate transport specialty as well as regular ambulance). Also professional singer/songwriter/musician, former electronics and mechanical design drafter (aerospace mostly). Both parents were also vets, as is my brother, and every male member of my family as far back as I can trace. Also an outdoorsman, an amateur mycologist with the Oregon Mycological Society - we were, until recently, the ones the Poison Control Center called for mushroom poisoning cases in Central Oregon. Other things include hunting, or just wandering around the woods enjoying them. Have had an extremely varied but interesting life. Am part Native American (Ani-Yunwya - Cherokee), as is my wife. That is the spiritual path we follow, mostly through Lakota, as that's the intertribal language.

Still in an argument with the VA about the correct way to treat chronic pain. My wife is now also disabled and bedridden, and my mobility has been simply pulled out from under me at this worst of possible times. I am her only caretaker/companion, errand runner etc. She has no one else, and without me, she's stuck in bed, unable even to get water for herself. I MUST be able to move.

If you're interested in more information, write me via email!

Ian