Thomas Rapisardo, M.D., Receives First Annual Healthcare Hero Award For Distinguished VA Service To Veterans

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Sept. 21, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Thomas Rapisardo, M.D., today received the first annual Healthcare Hero Award from The Independence Fund for his exemplary service and dedication to America's wounded, ill, and injured Veterans. Rapisardo retired as a Primary Care Physician at the Charlotte VA Veteran's Health Care Center in August.

"The Healthcare Hero Award was created to recognize one healthcare provider, nationally, from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs who goes above and beyond the call of duty," said Sarah Verardo, Chief Executive Officer of the Independence Fund. "Dr. Rapisardo's legacy of excellence personifies our belief that we are better together when it comes to the health of our nation's heroes."

A graduate of the St. Louis University School of Medicine, Rapisardo dedicated more than 40 years to public and Veteran healthcare. Rapisardo received the award at an event in Charlotte that also featured remarks by Cheryl Mason, Chairman of the VA's Board of Veterans' Appeals, and Representative Richard Hudson, U.S. Congressman from North Carolina's 8^th district.

"By celebrating and recognizing the distinguished service of Dr. Rapisardo, we also want to help set the standard for how the VA should operate," said Bob Carey, retired U.S. Navy Captain and the Chief Advocacy Officer at The Independence Fund. "With more than 6,000 catastrophically disabled Veterans, we believe Veterans should be able to choose their own healthcare providers like Dr. Rapisardo within the VA system, or other excellent providers outside the VA system."

Founded in 2007, The Independence Fund is committed to empowering America's severely wounded, injured, or ill Veterans to overcome physical, mental, and emotional wounds incurred in the line of duty. Dedicated to improving the lives of both Veterans and their families through mobility, Caregiver, adaptive sports, and advocacy programs, The Independence Fund strives to bridge the gap of unmet needs for Veterans and their Caregivers.

SOURCE The Independence Fund