UCLA Operation Mend

UCLA Operation Mend Operation Mend provides advanced surgical and medical treatment for post-9/11 era service members

Operation Mend was established in 2007 as a partnership between UCLA Health and the United States military. The program is available at absolutely no cost to the veterans or service member. Operation Mend was envisioned by Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center Board and Executive Committee member Ronald A. Katz after a visit to Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC), a leading burn and rehabilitation center in San Antonio, Texas, where he and his wife Maddie provided a lead gift to build a new 42-unit Fisher House. This visit inspired the Katz family to secure a commitment from UCLA to partner with BAMC on Operation Mend. “I think it is the private sector’s duty to stand up … and do something extra to help,” said Katz. “I asked UCLA Health if there was a way that we could offer our services and give these kids and their families not only the best the Army has to offer, but the best the country has to offer.” The program is open to members from all service branches. All medical care, travel and accommodations are provided AT NO COST to Operation Mend participants and their families.

On the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we remember the lives lost and the courage and compassion demonstrated in the days and ...
09/11/2026

On the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we remember the lives lost and the courage and compassion demonstrated in the days and weeks that followed. We remember the first responders and medical professionals who cared for the injured, the public servants and volunteers who supported their communities, and the service members and Veterans who dedicated their lives to our country.

To remember is to keep these stories alive. The National September 11 Memorial & Museum offers a meaningful place to do just that, with online programs and resources to help us learn and reflect from wherever we call home. Explore their 25th anniversary resources and carry this remembrance into your own community: 911memorial.org/marking-25th-anniversary.

As an organization dedicated to caring for post-9/11 Veterans and their families, we carry that commitment to remembrance and service with us every day. 🇺🇸💙



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Image Descriptions

Slide 1:
Gold and white text on a dark blue background reads "Patriot Day." White text to its right acknowledges the 25th anniversary of 9/11, honoring the thousands of lives lost and reflecting on the courage, compassion, and service demonstrated, qualities that are highlighted in gold italics. A photo above the text shows service members in uniform standing in formation.

Slide 2:
White text fills the lower half of the dark blue graphic, recognizing the first responders, medical professionals, and countless other compassionate Americans who stepped up in the aftermath of 9/11. The closing lines shift to gold italics, describing how they cared for the injured, protected our communities, and helped our nation begin a healing process. A photo above shows three soldiers in camouflage uniforms at dusk, one of them carrying an American flag.

Slide 3:
White text across the lower half of the dark blue graphic reflects on the lasting impact of that day, with the middle lines set in gold italics to emphasize those who stepped up in its aftermath alongside the Veterans and active duty service members who have continued this legacy of service to our country. A photo above captures the Operation Mend 2025 visit to the 9/11 Memorial in New York, where a woman holds a child close as they look out over the reflecting pool, with a single white rose placed atop the engraved names that line the pool's edge.

On Women’s Equality Day, we recognize the progress made toward equality while acknowledging the barriers that still exis...
08/26/2026

On Women’s Equality Day, we recognize the progress made toward equality while acknowledging the barriers that still exist.

Women Veterans continue to face unique challenges in accessing the care and resources they need. At UCLA Health Operation Mend, we understand that equitable access to specialized, comprehensive care is essential to supporting every Warrior and their journey toward healing.



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Image Description:

The graphic features a dark blue background with illustrated women's face profiles drawn in different shades. A large bold "53%" is shown in yellow-gold with a soft glow effect. White text underneath states that this percentage of women Warriors reported delaying or putting off needed care for physical injuries or health concerns. A thin horizontal yellow-gold line divides this section from the closing text below. Italicized text states that of the women surveyed, more than half reported receiving care from non-VA providers because of easier access, more convenient appointments, and overall quality of care. The final line of text is white and italicized and reads "2022 Annual Warrior Survey, Wounded Warrior Project."

Healing looks different for every Warrior.At UCLA Health Operation Mend, our integrated multidisciplinary team provides ...
08/19/2026

Healing looks different for every Warrior.

At UCLA Health Operation Mend, our integrated multidisciplinary team provides specialized care that addresses the visible and invisible impacts of military service. From post-traumatic stress and brain health treatment to complex surgical care and comprehensive support, we're committed to helping Veterans and their families on their path to healing.

Swipe to learn about four key areas of care offered through Operation Mend and visit uclahealth.org/programs/operationmend for more information.



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Image Descriptions

Slide 1:
A blue-tinted photo shows two people sitting across from each other. Text reads "4 life-changing areas of treatment at UCLA Health Operation Mend," with a white arrow pointing right.

Slide 2:
A photo shows two people talking in what looks like a therapy session. The heading "Post-Traumatic Stress Treatment" appears below, followed by a description of Operation Mend's two-week intensive program.

Slide 3:
A glowing illustration shows a translucent brain with colorful light trails running through it. The heading "Brain Health Treatment" appears below, followed by a description of the traumatic brain injury program.

Slide 4:
A photo shows a surgeon in scrubs and a mask working under bright surgical lights. The heading "Specialized Surgical Care" appears below, followed by a description of Operation Mend's multidisciplinary surgical care and a list of specialty areas.

Slide 5:
A photo shows two people shaking hands, with others visible in the background. The heading "Comprehensive Support for Warriors and Families" appears below, followed by a description of the transitional support Operation Mend offers.

On Purple Heart Day, we honor the Warriors who have been awarded the Purple Heart, one of our nation’s oldest and most d...
08/07/2026

On Purple Heart Day, we honor the Warriors who have been awarded the Purple Heart, one of our nation’s oldest and most distinguished military honors.

A testament to strength, resilience, and enduring commitment, the Purple Heart recognizes those wounded or killed in service to our country. At UCLA Health Operation Mend, we honor the Warriors who carry this distinction and remain committed to caring for those who dedicate their lives to our nation.

📸: Official U.S. Military Photos



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Slide 1:
A purple Operation Mend graphic for Purple Heart Day features the UCLA Health Operation Mend logo centered at the top, with bold yellow outlined text reading "Purple Heart Day." Below, a photo shows a folded American flag with a Purple Heart medal pinned to it. White and italic text at the bottom reads "August 7: Honoring Legacies of Service and Sacrifice."

Slide 2:
A faded photo of an American flag covers the background, with a purple overlay tinting the image. A close-up photo of a Purple Heart medal is shown at the top of the image, and the UCLA Health Operation Mend logo appears to the left. White and italic text reads "A symbol with over 240 years of history." The text below explains that the Purple Heart traces its origins to August 7, 1782, when General George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit, one of the first U.S. military awards designed to recognize the bravery and dedication of enlisted Service Members and noncommissioned officers. The source is credited to the U.S. Army Center of Military History.

Slide 3:
A purple graphic continues the history of the Purple Heart, explaining that after falling out of use following the Revolutionary War, the Badge of Military Merit was revived in 1932 and redesigned as the Purple Heart. The text notes that today, the medal is awarded to Service Members who have been wounded or killed while serving, standing as a symbol of the courage and sacrifice of those who have borne the visible and invisible impacts of military service. The source is credited to the U.S. Army Center of Military History. Below the text, a photo shows three service members in uniform. Their backs are to the camera, and they are saluting a group of flag bearers standing at attention in the blurred background.

Slide 4:
A faded photo of an American flag on a flagpole covers the entire background of this graphic, with a purple overlay tinting the image. A close-up photo of a Purple Heart medal hangs at the top of the image, and the UCLA Health Operation Mend logo appears to the left. White and italic text reads "Preserving the stories behind the medal." The text below explains that the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor is working to compile a comprehensive roster to preserve the stories and services of those who have received this distinguished medal.

Thirty-six years ago today, on July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law by President...
07/26/2026

Thirty-six years ago today, on July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law by President George H. W. Bush. The legislation was the result of decades of advocacy by people with disabilities and allies who fought for equal rights, access, and opportunity.

On National Disability Independence Day, we recognize the lasting impact of the ADA and reaffirm the importance of creating communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

At UCLA Operation Mend, we’re honored to serve post-9/11 Veterans and their Caregivers through world-class medical and psychological care at no cost to eligible participants. As we reflect on the ADA’s legacy, we also recognize that healing, accessibility, and independence go hand in hand.

Learn more about our services at uclahealth.org/programs/operationmend



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Image Descriptions

Slide 1:
The graphic recognizes National Disability Independence Day and explains that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), signed into law on July 26, 1990, established landmark civil rights protections for millions of Americans with disabilities. The lower portion features a historic photo of President George H.W. Bush signing the ADA.

Slide 2:
The graphic explains that the ADA helps remove barriers to participation in employment, transportation, public services, and other public spaces while recognizing the strength and resilience of people living with visible and invisible disabilities, including many Veterans and service members. The bottom of the graphic features two photos: one of a wheelchair user, and another of a U.S. Army service member during what appears to be a counseling or support session.

At Operation Mend, we believe healing extends beyond medical care. For many Veterans, the next chapter includes rebuildi...
07/25/2026

At Operation Mend, we believe healing extends beyond medical care. For many Veterans, the next chapter includes rebuilding confidence, finding purpose, and navigating the transition to civilian life.

This , we’re grateful for organizations like ACP (American Corporate Partners) that help make that transition possible through career mentorship and professional guidance.

Together, we can help ensure those who have served have the support and opportunities to thrive long after their military service ends.



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Image Descriptions

Slide 1:
The graphic promotes National Hire a Veteran Day. It highlights the importance of believing in Veterans' potential and supporting their journey toward healing, purpose, and future careers. The lower half features a smiling U.S. Army service member in uniform.

Slide 2:
The graphic highlights American Corporate Partners (ACP), a nonprofit that connects post-9/11 Veterans and active-duty service members with volunteer mentors to support their transition into civilian careers. A highlighted callout emphasizes ACP's focus on mentorship and professional guidance.

Slide 3:
The graphic outlines ways for employers, professionals, and Veterans or active-duty service members to get involved through ACP. The bottom of the graphic features two photos: one of a smiling professional walking outdoors and another of two people engaged in a conversation.

07/15/2026

Thank you Singer Equipment Company for your generous donation to our Teaching Kitchen. 💙

Your support helps create a welcoming space where Warriors and their Caregivers can prepare healthy meals together, build practical skills, and share meaningful conversations around the table.

Learn more about the comprehensive care and services Operation Mend provides to Veterans, service members, and their families at https://www.uclahealth.org/programs/operationmend.



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Video Description:

Dr. Harris from the Operation Mend team appears in a selfie-style video, thanking Singer Equipment Company for donating a large collection of supplies to the Operation Mend Teaching Kitchen. She explains that the donation has helped create a welcoming space where Warriors and their Caregivers can prepare healthy, nourishing meals together. Dr. Harris shares that she met representatives from Singer Equipment Company at a fundraising event in New York after giving a talk about the Teaching Kitchen and the role shared meal preparation and community meals play in the program. The video transitions to footage of Dr. Harris chopping an onion in the Teaching Kitchen before returning to selfie mode as she explains that Singer Equipment Company was inspired by Operation Mend's mission. The video then cuts to a sped-up timelapse of Madison unboxing the donated supplies, followed by close-up shots panning across cutting boards, knives, bowls, dishes, and other kitchen equipment while Dr. Harris describes the items. The video ends with Dr. Harris returning to selfie mode to thank Singer Equipment Company for its generous support.

Behind every Operation Mend patient is a team of dedicated professionals. This Month, we're recognizing Allyson as our ...
07/08/2026

Behind every Operation Mend patient is a team of dedicated professionals. This Month, we're recognizing Allyson as our .

Thank you, Allyson, for the care, compassion, and support you provide to Veterans and their families every day.



Image Description:

A graphic features a portrait of Allyson smiling at the camera while wearing a black jacket. The graphic includes a quote about her gratitude for working alongside Veterans and their families and her admiration for their resilience. The UCLA Health Operation Mend logo and Allyson's name and title appear at the bottom of the graphic.

07/04/2026

This Fourth of July, celebrate with a recipe that's simple, colorful, and full of nourishing ingredients.

This black bean and corn dip combines beans, corn, bell pepper, avocado, olive oil, and fresh lime for a dish that's packed with fiber, nutrients, and brain-healthy fats. It's an easy reminder that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or expensive.

From all of us at Operation Mend, we wish you a safe, healthy, and happy Fourth of July!



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Video Description:
A member of the Operation Mend team demonstrates how to make a black bean and corn dip. Throughout the video, she rinses canned beans and combines white beans, black beans, corn, bell pepper, avocado, olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. She then stirs everything together and serves the dip with blue corn chips. She tastes the finished dish and shares that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or expensive before wishing viewers a safe and happy Fourth of July.

PTSD doesn’t follow a single timeline. Recognizing how PTSD shows up is part of seeking care, and it’s never too late to...
06/27/2026

PTSD doesn’t follow a single timeline. Recognizing how PTSD shows up is part of seeking care, and it’s never too late to start.



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Image Descriptions

Slide 1: Graphic with a blue gradient background features the headline “PTSD Awareness Day.” Supporting text reads: “Understanding PTSD means understanding that it doesn’t follow a predictable timeline.” The UCLA Health Operation Mend logo appears in the lower left corner.

Slide 2: Graphic with a blue gradient background explains that PTSD symptoms can begin immediately after a traumatic experience or emerge months or even years later. Additional text notes that life transitions such as retirement, loss, or changes in daily routine can bring past experiences back to the surface, resulting in the onset of new symptoms. The UCLA Health Operation Mend logo appears in the lower left corner.

Slide 3: Graphic with a blue gradient background outlines several forms of PTSD care and support. Closing text reads: “Seeking care is a meaningful first step, and it’s never too late to begin.” The UCLA Health Operation Mend logo appears in the lower left corner.

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924 Westwood Boulevard, Ste 400
Los Angeles, CA
90095

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+13102672110

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