Good morning Mr. Chairman.

 I have been following the Chantix story over the last few weeks and share your concerns over this incident.

Recent reports of the damage and mental breakdown experienced by veterans as a result of Chantix are very disturbing.

Like my colleagues on this committee, I question why this happened and if this is happening in other studies.

More importantly, I am interested in hearing the steps the VA is taking to ensure that this incident is not repeated.

For a veteran in a rural district like mine, seeking help can mean traveling over dangerous terrain and mountain passes in unpredictable weather.

Should one of them experience a mental breakdown the damage can be even more severe that if it took place in a big city.

I know that the almost 70,000 veterans that I have in my district go to VA centers expecting a system that is looking out for their well being.

Many of the Veterans in Colorado’s Third District are low income and live in rural communities.

Most have to travel long distances to get to their nearest VA facility.

However, they go through a great deal of hardship because they know that they will be receiving the best care available in gratitude for their service to our Nation.

It is this confidence that leads many veterans to take part in studies to better their lives and the lives of their fellow veterans.

We cannot dishonor their desire to continue to serve their fellow servicemen and women by not informing them of all the risks involved.

Our veterans need to be confident that they are safe when they go to a VA hospital, take their medications or take part in a VA study.

Incidents like this one shake their confidence in the system that is in place to care for them.

Veterans have given enough for this Nation and we must ensure that they have healthcare that takes care of their needs safely and effectively.

Mr. Chairman, I thank you and the members of this committee for the opportunity to review this incident to ensure that this does not happen again.