SANTA ROSA - With over 90% of the precincts reporting, Texas are in favor of Proposition 8.
The proposition allows the state to contribute to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of veterans’ hospitals across Texas. It would let state resources be used for a veterans’ hospital run by the federal government.
Passing the proposition could get the Valley a step closer to getting its own veterans’ hospital.
Veterans, like Ruben Cordova of Santa Rosa, have had to make multiple trips to San Antonio. That’s where the closest VA hospital is located.
The 22-year Navy veteran had a total of three surgeries on his shoulders and elbows. Then he had follow-up procedures for pain management. Each surgery and procedure was a trip to San Antonio
“One time i had to drive by myself, cause my wife couldn't go with me. So I had to drive all the way back with my shoulders operated on. So every time I hit a bump or anything…. I quit taking my meds so I could drive, so it was a long drive,” Cordova recalls.
He tells us he’s been watching the election results hoping Proposition 8 passes.
“I've told my family and I've told my friends through my network online to vote yes on Prop 8,” he says.
Currently, some Valley hospitals are already serving veterans under a contract with Veteran's Affairs.
But Cordova would like to see a hospital here at home.
“We want a full blown hospital 24/7 here in the Valley,” he tells us.
