In this compelling episode of Train Hard Recover Smart, host Thomas Flanagan delves into a deeply personal and societal issue – the broken system that veterans face when seeking benefits for service-connected disabilities. As a veteran with a 100% total and permanent service-connected disability rating, Thomas shares his frustrations with the challenges he's encountered in accessing entitled benefits. The heart of the matter lies in his choice of a holistic approach to pain management, juxtaposed against the more conventional path of heavy medications. Through cold plunges, electric muscle stimulation, compression therapy, and other holistic methods, Thomas explores the disparities in benefit approval compared to those opting for narcotic medications. Join us as Thomas advocates for the right to choose a healthier, more sustainable approach to well-being, challenging societal norms and shedding light on the need for systemic change. This episode is a powerful call to action, urging us to rethink the way we support our veterans and reconsider the paths to recovery that truly honor their sacrifice.