I did my lab deal at the VA this morning - blood and urine a week prior to seeing my doctor for a checkup. The blood check is a wonderful thing as the VA does every test upon it known to man. That blood test costs a fortune or a huge co-pay with insurance but I paid for it long ago and I will catch no bill.

I have fair Irish skin with a great vein showing on the flip side of my elbow. Former Army, Navy and Air Force medical people have bled me well but today I caught a civilian needle poker at the VA clinic. I got poked, stung and bruised.

I'd rather see a vet for my bleedings.

Six days later and I'm still bruised.