I am honored and excited to be joining the Department of Veterans Affairs in its commitment to developing the "cutting edge" in care for veterans with disabilities. Opportunities to build on the strong tradition of VA Rehabilitation Research and Development abound.

    Along with the many challenges brought by the next millenium to the VA Health Care System, are many possibilities on which to capitalize. Breakthroughs, both biologic and technologic, offer promise of enhanced recovery in addition to optimal adaptation to impairment. The door for improved therapies, instituted earlier, has been opened by rehabilitation clinicians who take an increasingly active role during the acute phase of treatment. New applications of software-based systems and other developing technologies provide a continuous stream of devices to enhance functional adaptation. Patients with chronic impairments are looking to rehabilitation clinics for their principal care and VA, with its nationwide system and comprehensive clinical services, is uniquely positioned to respond. The potential benefits of new treatments which can enhance and hasten both functional and physiologic recovery in this setting are immeasurable, both to veterans and society.

    The individuals gathered for this first annual meeting of VA Rehabilitation Research and Development investigators should be proud of the many contributions made through their collective efforts to care for persons with disabilities. I look forward to joining you in enabling veterans and writing the next page of an already illustrious history.