Surgery

Resources for Los Angeles Fires

To Our UCLA Surgery Faculty & Staff

The Department of Surgery stands with our faculty and staff during this incredibly difficult time. We have gathered a list of resources to offer support to those affected by the fires .

For a comprehensive list of department resources, visit our faculty resource list. Many of these resources are also relevant to both our staff and faculty, including:

  •  Wellness and health programs
  • Employee benefits
  • Work-life balance and family support
  • Inclusivity information

A Message from Our Department Chair

Standing Together Amidst the Los Angeles Fires

Department of Surgery Fire Resources

A Message from Our Department Chair

January 8, 2025
Standing Together Amidst the Los Angeles Fires

Dear Colleagues, 

The Pacific Palisades fire has shaken our community in ways that feel deeply personal. For some, it has meant the unimaginable—losing homes, memories, and a sense of stability. For others, it has brought the worry of uncertainty, watching and waiting as events unfold.

If you have been directly affected, please know that you are not alone. Our department is here to support you in every way we can. If you or someone you know has been impacted, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Paty Vidauri at pevidauri@mednet.ucla.edu or Chi Quach at cquach@mednet.ucla.edu. Christine Lazok-Torres clazok@mednet.ucla.edu and her team are available for leave inquiries or other human resource needs. We will make every effort to connect you with the appropriate assistance.

For those of you not directly impacted, I encourage you to check on friends and colleagues who may need support or simply a kind word. This is a time to come together, to lean on each other and to remember that even in the hardest moments, community is our greatest strength. I am always available to provide any support.

Sincerely,

O. Joe Hines
Chair, Department of Surgery
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA