Shields & Stripes

Shields & Stripes had the distinct pleasure to welcome Edie Zusman, MD, MBA and Laurin Groover to witness and collect data from our current program. Dr. Zusman, a well known and distinguished nuerosurgeon is leading research in drawing links between micro Traumatic Brain Injuries and PTSD. It is becoming more evident that continued small blasts from firing a weapon, utilizing sound distraction devices, or conducting combatives training can have long term impacts on the mental health of our nations heroes. With Laurin's expertise with her work in the nations capitol and Dr. Zusman's research on TBI's, we aim to tackle complex problems through our treatment methodology and provide a solution that congressional representatives in the Armed Forces Committee can clearly label as the standard of care for our heroes. We thank them for their time and look forward to a partnership ultimately leading to saving more lives.

Last week, we kicked off our 3month program treating 8 veterans and first responders with symptoms of PTSD and Physical Injuries in partnership with Exos. Throughout the week we had several distinguished guests view the program with the intent of developing a strong, lasting partnership to better serve the heroes in our community. We thank each of them for their time and interest in truly helping those in need. Featured guests included - Michela Fredrickson from Boeing representing the Veterans Group within Boeing's Mesa site ecosystem. Kyle Arestivo from Trails of Purpose, we look forward to building a partnership bringing two unique 501c3's that are focused on the well being of our heroes. Jason Stella from Mystic River tubs bringing their incredible cold water immersion kits to future facilities is a must. Paul Cauldwell from Therabody always provides top notch education to our service athletes on proper use of their newly acquired Theraguns and Smart Goggles courtesy of Therabody's generous donation and partnership Lastly, Paige Arnone 🧘👮♀️ of Firstgevity providing her specialized yoga services specifically geared towards our men and women in uniform. We thank each and every one of you for your time and commitment to our nations finest. Help us secure our next program servicing 8 more veterans and first responders by donating $8 a month. They were there for us in our time of need, let's be there for them in theirs. Donate today -> www.shieldsandstripes.org

Next week, Shields & Stripes is kicking off another life-changing program for four veterans and four first responders in Phoenix, AZ at Exos This group includes veterans and first responders from Texas, Virginia, New York, New Jersey, Florida, and California. Each of them has demonstrated courage in taking this step towards healing. We are excited to see the progress they will make during their time with us. Our entire team has been working diligently to provide the best program possible and we are honored to offer the support, resources, and camaraderie needed to help these individuals restore their lives. This wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our donors, like you. Together, changing lives and building a stronger, more united community that honors the sacrifices of those who serve. A special thank you to The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project Big Fish Foundation Therabody Veterans United Foundation #shieldsandstripes #shieldsandstripesprogram

“I’m thankful for each and every person involved in Shields & Stripes. Alone is a dangerous place, I know that because of Shields & Stripes, I will never be that again.” - S&S Alum + Navy Rescue Swimmer This photo of a Shields & Stripes Athlete with the graduation coin symbolizes the camaraderie and strength forged thru our program - veterans, first responders and donors united. Just as veterans and first responders took an oath to care for us, we return the favor in their time of need. 📸 Courtesy of Luke Trexler #shieldsandstripes #restoration #healing

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered donated, and sponsored our 4th Annual Golf Classic in Whispering Pines, NC!⛳️🏌🏽 Your incredible support helps us continue our mission of restoring the lives of veterans and first responders by funding the Shields & Stripes program. We are so grateful for your generosity and commitment to our Nation’s heroes. 📸Full gallery coming soon! Photography courtesy of Haley Ritchie Tribalco Satcom Direct Performance Additives Smiles in the Pines Southern Pines Brewing Company Birdie Executive Relocation Services Vortex Optics SIG SAUER, Inc. Family & Co Chiropractic, PLLC Jessie Cantrell ChadHigby.com, LLC Lafferty Daniels Forget Me Knot Wedding Co Pine Pressed Flowers, LLC

Two days left to register for the Shields & Stripes 4th Golf Classic in Whispering Pines NC at Whispering Pines Country Club! We thank all of our hole sponsors for contributing to our cause, supporting our heroes in uniform! We look forward to seeing you all on the golf course on Saturday! To Learn more -> https://lnkd.in/e7j3qDC9

We want to specially thank our Gold and Silver Sponsors for our upcoming Shields & Stripes Golf Classic! These organizations have proven time and again that our heroes deserve the best and will ensure they receive the best care possible through the Shields & Stripes program. We thank them for their continued support and being allies to the veteran and first responder communities! Tribalco Satcom Direct Smiles in the Pines Performance Additives @limitless meal supply Join us on 13 July in Whispering Pines NC at the Whispering Pines Country Club! Details can be found here -> https://lnkd.in/e7j3qDC9

Yesterday Shields & Stripes graduated our most recent program after 3months of hard work. I often get lost in looking forward to the future and making sure we can get the next one, the next group, the next 8, the next sponsor.. That leads to me not truly being able to sit back and see the impact that our amazing team has on these veterans and first responders to include their families. It was truly humbling and heart warming Hearing from them directly yesterday expressing deep gratitude and listening to the lifelong changes as a result of their choice to choose better. Better for themselves and better for their families.  The common theme was they didn’t realize how much they needed this. They don’t realize how much we need them.. I am thankful for them and all those going through our program, it’s humbling everytime. Thank you to the village who has been their brothers/sisters keeper. TherabodyThe Charlie Daniels Journey Home ProjectGreen Beret FoundationExosBig Fish FoundationThe Step Up FoundationAmplify FederalPrairieFireVirgin Hotels Las Vegas

We’re thrilled to welcome our newest Shields & Stripes Ambassador, Riley Tejcek an Active Duty Marine and Captain in the USMC, as well as an accomplished athlete of the Team USA Bobsled team! Riley is a powerful female role model in the military and athletics, and she’s helping us highlight that not trauma by veterans and first responders is combat or job-related. We recognize that trauma can originate from sexual assault or MST, and our program is committed to supporting these heroes, no matter the cause. Join us in celebrating Riley’s advocacy and making a difference in the lives of veterans and first responders by signing up for “Donate Eight.” A small monthly donation of $8 will make a significant impact in supporting our mission to restore the lives of veterans and first responders. Donate or read more on the blog https://lnkd.in/eynez-fZ #SupportOurHeroes #ShieldsAndStripes #independanceday Steven Nisbet Jennifer Byrne Rory Berke Geoff Tokajer Cody Cerny

We are incredibly grateful for Exos and their continued support! This is a long lasting partnership that will undoubtedly change the lives of hundreds of Veterans and their families! Thank you for supporting our heroes!