Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik testified before the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee ahead of their discussion and debate of several pieces of legislation concerning veterans’ health care tomorrow. One of the pieces of legislation being discussed is Congresswoman Stefanik’s bill, the Vietnam Era Veterans Hepatitis C Testing Enhancement Act, which was introduced earlier this year.
Congresswoman Stefanik highlighted the case of North Country Veteran Danny Kaifetz from Keeseville, NY, who served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. Mr. Kaifetz was exposed to Hepatitis C while receiving necessary vaccinations during military training. Because the sterilization standards were not up to par with the standards today, he is among thousands exposed to the virus. Nearly forty years later, in 2011, Danny was diagnosed with Hepatitis C. He sought and received treatment at the VA, and today Mr. Kaifetz will tell you with gratitude that he owes his life to the outstanding medical staff at New York VA.
“I was honored to share North Country Vietnam Veteran Danny Kaifetz’ story with the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee today,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “His inspiring story is what motivated me to introduce the Vietnam Era Veterans Hepatitis C Testing Enhancement Act, which focuses on advanced screening through local partnerships, and enhances the VA’s efforts to screen and diagnose thousands of veterans who were exposed to the virus. I am very hopeful that the Committee was also inspired by Mr. Kaifetz’ story and will strongly consider bringing this critical legislation before Congress. As the Representative for more veterans than any other district in New York State, it is my duty and privilege to advocate for their unique needs in Congress.”
To watch Congresswoman Stefanik speak before the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee today, click here.
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