Joseph (Joey) Paulk

U.S. Army Veteran

"Operation Mend changed my life by giving me a life."

On July 5, 2007, while serving in Afghanistan, Army Specialist Joey Paulk survived an assault on his tactical vehicle when it was hit by three anti-tank mines, flipping it over and igniting the fuel tank. Tragically, his team leader lost his life during the attack, and Joey suffered burns to 40 percent of his body and face, smoke inhalation injuries, paralysis of his vocal cords and complete amputation of all 10 fingers. He had to re-learn how to walk, talk, swallow, and cope without full use of his hands.

“I came to Operation Mend because my life had taken a negative turn after leaving the hospital in Texas, and the reason for the negative turn was because of my insecurities about how my face looked. Hearing about what Operation Mend was doing, I chose to reach out and hear what the doctor could offer. Liking what he said, I gave him a chance, and it was the best decision of my life. In one procedure I looked incredible and from that point on I couldn’t wait to have more surgeries, knowing I was going to look better and better and more like myself. 

Operation Mend changed my life by giving me a life. Looking as good as I do, I go out into the world and experience life in many ways I never imagined. I feel better than I did even before my injury and it’s all thanks to Operation Mend. Don’t know where I would be without them.”

Joey is an ardent advocate for wounded warriors, with a rekindled love for life, and sports. In the midst of it all, he is an excellent snowboarder, fisherman, golfer, league bowler, and soccer player. Joey’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.