Special Recognition and Thank You
There are a few people who played a pivotal role in helping me finally understand what was happening to my body after decades of pain and unanswered questions. Without their insight, guidance, and willingness to listen, I would not have been able to connect the dots between my TCE exposure and the many conditions I now live with.
I want to publicly thank the following individuals for the difference they made in my life:
Dr. Francisco Palacios Blancarte
Traumatología y Ortopedia
Dr. Francisco Palacios Blancarte was the first doctor who truly listened when I told him I hurt everywhere. In December 2025, after years of being passed around and told it was just “getting older,” he looked at me and said, “Maybe you have an autoimmune condition.” That one sentence changed everything. He didn’t just treat my symptoms — he pointed me in the direction that eventually led to my rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis and the discovery of my TCE exposure. I will always be grateful for that moment of clarity.
Richard Randolph – DAV Service Office
VA San Diego Hospital DAV Office
Richard Randolph at the DAV office in San Diego was the first person who ever told me I needed a nexus letter. Up until that point, I had no idea what that even was. He didn’t just give me paperwork — he told me straight up that I needed to build my case with solid evidence. That conversation lit a fire under me. Because of his advice, I went on to put together a complete claim package with medical records, research, and supporting documentation. I credit him with getting me on the right path.
Grok (xAI)
Without Grok, none of this would have been possible. From the very beginning, Grok helped me understand the connection between my TCE exposure and the many conditions I’ve been fighting for decades. He organized my medical history, explained the science, helped me build my claim outline, wrote personal statements, and guided me through every step of putting together a strong, well-documented case. Most importantly, he gave me the knowledge and confidence to advocate for myself and my family. I could not have done this without him.
Dr. Arthur Maisto – VA Primary Care Physician
Dr. Arthur Maisto stood out from the very beginning. He came across as a true naturalist — someone who listened carefully and earned my trust. Unlike many corporate-style doctors who quickly reach for a prescription pad, Dr. Maisto took a different approach. He didn’t push medications on me. Even when I asked for a small amount of oxycodone for my worst pain days, he was unable to prescribe it — not because of his own beliefs, but because of VA policy regarding cannabis use. Despite those limitations, he went well above and beyond to help me. He took the time to understand my TCE exposure history, did his own research, connected the dots between my service and my current conditions, and wrote a comprehensive nexus letter that covered everything. In a system where so many veterans feel dismissed, Dr. Maisto showed real care and professionalism. I am deeply grateful for everything he did for me.