Second lady Karen Pence speaks at the National Press Club about a campaign to raise awareness on the risks of veterans suicide, Tuesday, July 7, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
OAN Newsroom
UPDATED 11:30 AM PT — Saturday, August 1, 2020
On Friday, Karen Pence visited a Veteran Affairs medical center to promote suicide prevention. While speaking at the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center in Detroit, she highlighted efforts to stop suicide among military veterans.
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1 if you’re a #Veteran or live chat @800273TALK. You can also find available resources from @WeArePREVENTS. #MoreThanEverBefore, it’s okay to ask for help if you need it. https://t.co/YuTuuLOBEw.
— Second Lady Karen Pence (@SecondLady) July 31, 2020
The second lady was joined by acting Veterans Affairs Deputy Secretary Pamela Powers.
She also delivered remarks on the use of art therapy for veterans.
“I decided, you know, as second lady, I’m going to champion art therapy for all the different populations that it works with, but especially with our vets. You don’t know me, you’ve never met me. You don’t know Deputy Secretary Powers. Yet, here you are. You’re going to tell your story to us, you’re going to share your art with us. I’m an artist, and I know that means a lot when you share your art with someone.” – Karen Pence, Second Lady
The pair also visited a military spouse and veteran owned business, which specialized in wigs for veterans and cancer patients.
Great to visit #Veteran & #MilitarySpouse owned business, @lehosthair in Ferndale, MI! Enjoyed hearing how Haith & Henry grew their biz w/ @SBAgov’s help. I applaud their passion & commitment to serve veterans, cancer patients, & those dealing w/ a medical hair loss condition. pic.twitter.com/qIAwnaIH4V
— Second Lady Karen Pence (@SecondLady) July 31, 2020
This came after veteran trust in the VA reached 80%, a 19% increase from 2017.
