Former Staff Sergeant Donna L. Jefferies, 64, lived in constant pain.
She lived with limited mobility and dexterity challenges for 44 years after serving in the Air Force and National Guard.
“I come from a military family,” Jefferies said. “My father served in the United States Army during World War II. My brother served in the Navy during the Vietnam War. I have always admired the military, and I wanted to serve my country.”
Five years of active duty in the Air Force — and then serving in the Pennsylvania and Arizona National Guards — resulted in injuries encompassing her back, a finger, an ankle, an arm, and a knee. For many years, she was unaware of the resources available to her as a veteran.
However, once she started working with VFW Accredited Service Officer Zachary “Zac” Lee in late 2023, Jefferies’ life changed for the better.
“Zac walked me through the process of filing a claim,” said Jefferies. “He answered any question I had. He was so professional and concerned about how I was doing. That meant so much to me.”
The VFW’s trained and Accredited Service Officers, like Lee, are a lifeline for veterans and their families in need of assistance. Jefferies actively encourages others to seek help through the VFW’s National Veterans Service (NVS).
“I have talked to several of my friends who are veterans and have recommended that they talk with the people at the VFW about filing a disability claim,” she said.
Jefferies also expressed how much better she feels physically, now that she has access to veterans' resources. Her back pain, for example, is now being treated monthly with acupuncture at the VA hospital. What was once a pain level of eight is now down to level two, she said.
Jefferies is not hesitant to credit Lee’s help for her improved situation.
“He will go above and beyond to get his veterans the assistance they need, whether that is financial, medical or any other benefits they may be entitled to,” she said of Lee. “He will do whatever he can to help them. He is truly an asset to the VFW and a blessing to the veterans he helps.”
Learn more about the VFW's National Veterans Service (NVS) program.