
Healing Invisible Wounds: UF Health’s Leon Haley Brain Wellness Program for Veterans & First Responders
About this episode
What happens when a veteran survives multiple traumatic brain injuries, experiences daily cognitive and emotional symptoms, and then finds a program that changes everything?
In this deeply inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Steve Papas, U.S. Navy veteran and Executive Director of the Leon Haley Brain Wellness Program at UF Health Jacksonville. Steve shares his personal healing journey—from debilitating symptoms to complete transformation—thanks to this groundbreaking initiative backed by the Avalon Action Alliance.
The Leon Haley Brain Wellness Program provides free, comprehensive care for veterans and first responders dealing with TBI and post-traumatic stress. With a unique blend of clinical therapy and integrative practices like art therapy, canine and equine support, and mindfulness, the program is delivering life-changing results.
Here’s what makes this episode a must-listen:
✔️ Real-world stories of healing from invisible wounds
✔️ A breakdown of how the program works
✔️ No-cost access for veterans and first responders
✔️ Insights on how YOU or a loved one can apply
✔️ How the program is leading the charge in veteran mental health nationwide
💬 “I thought I had to live with this forever. This program gave me my life back.” – Steve Papas
💡 If you’ve experienced symptoms of TBI or PTSD—or know someone who has—this episode may be the most important one you hear this year.
📞 Call Steve Papas directly: 904-576-0604
🔍 Apply: Google UF Health Leon Haley Brain Wellness Program
🎧 Subscribe & follow VET S.O.S. to hear more interviews with veterans, advocates, and leaders reshaping the transition landscape.
#LeonHaleyBrainWellnessProgram #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #TBIRecovery #BrainHealth #PTSDHelp #FirstResponderWellness #UFHealth #ArtTherapyHealing #AvalonActionAlliance #VETSOS
Get every episode summarized
Each time VET S.O.S. Podcast publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from VET S.O.S. Podcast

Saving Veterans and Rescue Dogs—On Both Sides of the Leash
VET S.O.S. Podcast

From Military Service to Job Offers: Interview Secrets from Pat Hubbell
VET S.O.S. Podcast

Can Hunting Help Veterans Heal? Victor Bretting Thinks So
VET S.O.S. Podcast

Why Veteran Suicide Prevention Must Start Before Crisis — Dr. Keita Franklin
VET S.O.S. Podcast