TORONTO, ON, June 17, 1999 - The War Amps was pleased that the Minister of Veterans Affairs will be providing Viagra for veterans who suffer sexual dysfunction due to pensioned condition. The War Amps is re-issuing herewith copy of our news release of June 17, 1999, together with copy of the letter to former Minister of Veterans Affairs Fred Mifflin dated June 22, 1999.

The War Amps of Canada passed a resolution at its annual meeting today requesting that the Minister of Veterans Affairs approve the issue of Viagra under circumstances where an amputee can produce evidence that his pensioned condition contributes to sexual dysfunction.

The Veterans Pension Act, under the EXCEPTIONAL INCAPACITY section, provides that loss of enjoyment of life is considered as a qualification for additional pension.

Cliff Chadderton, Chief Executive Officer of The War Amps, stated that Veterans Affairs adjudicators, thus far, have refused to recognize that amputation increases the difficulty of intercourse. He pointed out that psychologists have, for many years, indicated that amputation distorts "body image" which can affect a sexual partner.

Moreover, the Veterans Affairs adjudicators have failed to realize that an arm amputation can cause serious difficulties of balance in carrying out the sexual function. Leg amputees complain of problems in regard to what they call "position."

In approving the resolution, the war amputees, most of whom are in their mid-70's, were of the opinion that Viagra would assist in overcoming their physical disabilities and provide for a more adequate sex life.