[Future Snake Eater]

My first set of phone calls would have been to local politicians ... followed up with local news stations, newspapers, etc.

I can't imagine that would've helped. The VA is famously inept and slow, and nobody in a position of power seems to give a shit. Coming to hospitals near you via Obamacare!

[oh8eleven]

The VA is famously inept and slow, and nobody in a position of power seems to give a shit.
I've seen many a local Pol - including Dems - jump at the chance to help someone with a VA problem and they usually get positive results - quickly.