Hampton VA Medical Center

Saving a marriage is more than saving two lives ~ it is about touching the lives of family members, coworkers, colleagues and members of the community.  Practical Application of Intimate Relationship Skills is a new VA program offered to Veterans, spouses and significant others to improve family relationships.

The Hampton VAMC Chaplain Service hosted its first PAIRS retreat,     May 4–6, at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Hampton, Va.

“The belief is that healthy relationships and bonding are as important as any other life sustaining ingredient, as essential as the air we breathe and the food we consume,” said Susan Cross, chaplain at the Hampton VAMC.

The 27 couples who attended the retreat spent their time filled with moving stories, laughter, wonderful connections and skill development. 

“The commitment to work at relationships contributes to the well-being of communities,” said Cross. “The retreat was every bit as fulfilling for the facilitators as it was for the couples.”

The Patient Centered Care and Cultural Initiative sponsored the PAIRS retreat. The initiative’s goal is to offer support for Veterans, active duty and their families by providing participants the necessary tools needed to build healthy relationships. 

The next PAIRS retreat will be held September 21-23. Please contact the Hampton VAMC Chaplain Service if you are interested in learning more about the retreat.

By James Coty