How a VA virtual reality headset changed a Veteran’s life

"For the first time, I forgot about my pain and smiled," said Army Veteran and VA employee Gary Ruc when recalling his first virtual reality (VR) experience. Ruc took the stage for a deeply inspiring testimonial during the 2024 VA Immersive Summit, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd.

Ruc (pictured above) deployed to Iraq on two separate occasions. On his final deployment, he was injured in combat twice and earned two Purple Hearts for his bravery and service. The second injury changed the trajectory of his life and ended his military career.

A large artillery shell rigged as an improvised explosive device exploded during a firefight, sending a three-inch piece of shrapnel through his vest and shredding the Kevlar lining of his vest. It entered his left groin, zigzagged through his body and then broke his right hip.

Putting heads in headsets

Following his injury, Ruc took a job with VA. It was then he discovered the transformative power of immersive technology like VR.

"When I first tried a VR headset, the possibilities became endless. Whether used as a tool to combat ailments, a means of leisure, having difficult conversations with a loved one or simply providing a light down a never-ending tunnel of darkness, VR can immerse you in a different environment and invoke new feelings," Ruc shared.

When he was invited to try VR, Ruc found a lifeline. Driving, he would experience hip pain due to the lifting and lowering of his right leg where he has total atrophy in two major muscles.

VA has deployed more than 3,500 virtual reality (VR) headsets

When he tried the headset, Ruc had a profound experience. He called his wife to tell her about it. Later that week, she surprised him with his own. "Anytime, it's by my side. With guided care and proper introduction, VR headsets can bring light and hope to anyone facing a dimmer reality," he added.

VA has deployed more than 3,500 virtual reality (VR) headsets across more than 170 VA medical centers and outpatient clinics in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Guam and American Samoa with over 40 documented use cases and over 10,000 Veteran experiences to date.

To learn more, visit the VA Immersive website and check out the YouTube playlist.

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