Stories | VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care

As they enter the room, visitors are greeted with a wall-length image of a misty forest lined with tall trees. A sign reads, “You can’t stop the waves but you can learn to surf,” and a large picture window lets in an abundance of natural light.

For some people, service can mean giving a few hours of yourself, or weeks, months and even years, but for one man it was 50 years.

If only it were that simple. Veterans from the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System undergo rigorous training to prepare for these events with their rehabilitation therapists, and employees assist with the planning and execution of the National games to help them run smoothly.

Otis Hopson (right) pictured with his son, also named Otis (left), at the Golden Age Games.

At VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, more than 70 certified peer specialists, all of whom are Veterans, work side-by-side with those who’ve served, using lived experience to help guide them through recovery from mental health issues, homelessness, and substance abuse.

One day, he’s this whacky guy who gets in all kinds of mischief. Next, he’s this badass Navy SEAL commander who leads his unit on a mission that makes your heart skip a beat or two.

A few months ago, Air Force Veteran Cyntrea Cotton was living in fear. After a panic attack led her to put in an end-of-lease notice on her previous apartment, she left Los Angeles to regroup in Arizona.

Disclaimer: Information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. The consumption of wild, non-cultivated food carries inherent risk.

At West LA VA one can forage more than two dozen wild plants that are edible and offer health benefits.

At the newly opened Summit View apartment complex in Sylmar, Calif., 48 formerly homeless Veterans enjoy an expansive water view and array of amenities in a rustic, yet contemporary setting.

Four apartment buildings overlooking a body of water.

As the work leader carpenter at the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center, Army Veteran Daniel Martin takes great pride in fixing things. “Danny,” as he prefers to be called, repairs drywall, hangs doors, and generally beautifies Building 500 for patients, staff, and visitors.

Three men standing and talking to each other.

For many Veterans returning to civilian life, knowing what benefits and services they’re eligible for can be a challenging task. The maze of options can be overwhelming for even the most connected Veterans.

Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN) Lead Housing Specialist Liza Rodriguez (left) and VPAN Program Manager Anh Tran (right) discuss VPAN’s work in linking Veterans and their families to services.