A New York veteran credits a Veterans Affairs Medical Center near the state Capitol with saving his life, and one particular feature that aided in his cancer treatment is being hailed as a role model for other VA's statewide.

Part of the Albany Stratton VA Medical Center is getting a facelift thanks, in part, to that same veteran, who says the hospital and its staff saved his life.  

“I got up and said, 'not today. I’m not dying today,'” Dan Shepard recalled.  

Six years ago, on his 50th birthday, the former military police officer in the U.S. Marine Corps was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.  

“I came down here. They thought I had a hernia, but it turned out to be cancer,” he said.  

Shepard began aggressive treatment to combat the disease almost immediately, which kept him confined to the halls of the VA medical center.  

“The Stratton Inn is an in-house hotel for our veterans,” explained Voluntary Service Manager Dom Dominguez. “Veterans can stay here if they live 50 miles or over from the medical center.”  

The free accommodation is game-changer for veterans receiving care and their families.  

“I was by his side and they let me spend the night – and stay right here,” remembered Shepard’s wife, Lisa.  

The Shepards say the Stratton Inn played a critical role in the success of Dan’s treatment and recovery, but also said there was one problem. The rooms were antiquated.  

With a background in real estate and a debt of gratitude, the Shepards started raising money to help support renovations.

“They actually put a king-sized bed in there for the veteran and their family,” Shepard said as he toured the renovations Tuesday. “A nightstand and some lights.”  

By way of an annual golf tournament, the Shepards have raised more than $75,000 in five years to help spruce up three of the Stratton Inn’s 10 rooms.  

“If you were to buy something and get that view, it would cost you,” Shepard joked as he looked out over the Empire State Plaza nearby. “While the veteran and their family is here getting their treatment and healing, they’ve got a beautiful view and a beautiful room.”  

Having become a partner with the people who he credits with saving his life, Shepard says he and his wife don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.  

“We’re all doing the same mission,” he said. “Helping veterans.”  

The All in 1 Reality Services’ annual charity golf tournament is Aug. 19 this year.