Ep. 63 Break the Silence: Tanya Oxendine’s Story of Survival and Healing with Wounded Warrior Project

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery.

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Tonya Oxendine, a spokesperson for the Wounded Warrior Project. Tanya shares her poignant story of joining the U.S. Army to escape a difficult childhood, enduring harassment during her nearly 30-year military career, and facing severe PTSD after her deployment in Afghanistan. She discusses the crucial support she received from the Wounded Warrior Project, which helped her reclaim her life. Tanya's perseverance and commitment now drive her to empower other veterans through physical fitness and mental health advocacy.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

Ep. 63 – Break the Silence: Tanya Oxendine’s Story of Survival and Healing with Wounded Warrior Project

Tonya Oxendine, who joined the United States Army shortly after high school to escape a traumatic past, shared the struggles and triumphs of her nearly 30-year military career. Amidst the challenges of harassment and emotional turmoil, she found solace and strength through the Wounded Warrior Project after facing the breaking point during her last deployment in Afghanistan in 2012.

A Journey from Despair

Tonya's recount of nearly driving off a bridge due to the overwhelming pressures of PTSD, depression, and anxiety is poignant. It was her love for her sons, Nuke and Bam, that turned her car around and led her to seek help at Fort Belvoir’s mental health center. This vital step began her healing journey. Her involvement with the Wounded Warrior Project's Talk Program and Warrior Care Network significantly improved her mental health, providing essential support and restoring hope.

Help for Veterans That Heals

Tonya’s involvement with the Wounded Warrior Project is multifaceted. Programs such as Carry Forward, a 5K walk/run event, and Project Odyssey, a mental health retreat, are just a few examples of how the organization supports veterans. These events and programs foster community, resilience, and physical and emotional well-being. Each program is meticulously tailored to the unique needs of veterans, ensuring no one feels left behind.

Empowerment Through Advocacy

Tonya's passion for helping other veterans is evident in her stories. Her role as a spokesperson has her traveling the world, sharing her journey, advocating for mental health, and breaking the stigma around seeking help. Wounded Warrior Project’s holistic approach to healing encompasses more than just physical recovery; it supports mental, emotional, and social well-being.

The Origin of Wounded Warrior Project

The Wounded Warrior Project was born from a simple act of kindness by John Malia and his friends, who delivered the first set of backpacks filled with toiletries and clothes to wounded soldiers at Walter Reed Medical Center. This grassroots effort evolved into an organization that has now served nearly 270,000 veterans and their families, providing a broad range of support services.

For anyone interested in supporting the Wounded Warrior Project, the organization’s website offers various ways to get involved. Whether through donations, volunteering, or participating in events, there are numerous opportunities to make a meaningful contribution. Additionally, veterans interested in sharing their stories and joining the advocacy efforts can find clear steps to get involved.

Military Minute

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

● Last episode’s Military Minute: What was the original name for Philadelphia?

● Answer: Shackamaxon

● This week’s Military Minute question: In what city was Wounded Warrior Project founded?

● Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

● Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

● After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

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