Fidelity Wellness

02/11/2024

Centerstone offers 12 sessions of free counseling services for military veterans and their families. It’s nice because they understand military culture.

Reach out to them for more information.

Free counseling services

06/10/2024

"Fierce Becomes Her"

Full Circle: Becoming the Fierce Woman I Admired in Boot Camp

It was Range Week during Marine Corps boot camp—the time when we headed out to the field for two weeks. There was something about range week, the air felt different, and our drill instructors were a little "nicer" to us when we had live ammo in our hands!

I distinctly remember one evening during that week when our Senior Drill Instructor, Staff Sergeant Mendoza, allowed us a glimpse of her that we rarely got to see. She was tough as nails—unrelenting, fierce, and everything you’d expect a Marine Corps drill instructor to be. But out there, she showed a more motherly and personal side, allowing us to connect with her beyond the usual drill instructor-recruit dynamic. It felt odd, almost like seeing your teacher outside of school for the first time, realizing they’re a human too.

As she walked around our racks that evening, I remember the other recruits chuckling when I raised my hand and asked, "Senior Drill Instructor, how did you become so fierce?"

I don’t remember her exact answer, but I remember how I felt lying on that rack later that night. I was just a 19-year-old kid—confused, overwhelmed, exhausted—but also deeply inspired. All I could think about was how tough and fierce Staff Sergeant Mendoza was, and somewhere deep down, I knew I wanted to grow up to be like her. She was more than just a drill instructor barking orders; she embodied strength, resilience, and an unshakable presence. I thought to myself, "Someday, I want to be that fierce."

This morning, as I went about my day, that memory from boot camp popped into my head, and it hit me like a ton of bricks—I’ve become her. That fierce woman I admired so much, the one who seemed larger than life, is who I’ve grown into. It was a full-circle moment, realizing that the strength I admired in her was now in me.

It took years of challenges, growth, and setbacks, but I made it. I’m the fierce woman that 19-year-old Stephanie looked up to. The journey wasn’t easy, but standing where I am today, I know I’ve earned every bit of it.

In that moment of reflection, I realized that sometimes the seeds of who we’re meant to be are planted in the most unexpected places—like Range Week during boot camp, under the watchful eyes of a fierce drill instructor. And now, looking back, I’m grateful for that young girl who dared to ask the question, and for the journey that led me to becoming the woman I am today.

xoxo,

Stephanie

Papa 4017, MCRD Parris Island

https://stephaniepetersen.us/blog/f/fierce-becomes-her

06/10/2024

With the storm coming, it is 100% human to feel panic and worry. Do not let those emotions consume you.

Here are five ways to mentally and emotionally prepare for a major hurricane, emphasizing the importance of faith and maintaining inner peace:

1. Practice Mindfulness and Grounding

Stay present and avoid fixating on worst-case scenarios. Mindfulness exercises, like deep breathing or meditation, can help you remain calm amid uncertainty. Take a few minutes daily to ground yourself by focusing on your breath, your surroundings, and releasing stress.

2. Focus on What You Can Control

Accept that while you can prepare physically (stocking up on supplies, securing your home), you can't control the storm itself. List the preparations you've made, then mentally let go of things outside your control. This helps reduce feelings of helplessness.

3. Connect with a Support System

Reach out to family, friends, and community members. Share your concerns, talk about your preparations, and offer each other reassurance. Knowing you’re not alone can strengthen your emotional resilience, helping you feel supported through faith in others.

4. Affirm Positive Outcomes and Have Faith

Use affirmations or prayer to reinforce your faith. Remind yourself that you’ve done all you can and that you trust in a higher power to protect you and your loved ones. Visualize a safe outcome and keep a hopeful mindset, balancing preparation with inner faith.

5. Plan for Post-Storm Recovery

Shift some of your mental energy toward what comes after the storm. Think about how you will rebuild or recover, focusing on resilience and the strength to bounce back. This gives you a positive forward-looking perspective, helping you cope emotionally through the hurricane’s uncertainty.

These steps combine preparedness with trust and faith in what you cannot control, bringing balance to your mental and emotional approach.

We are all in this together. This too shall pass.

Much Love,

Stephanie

With the storm coming, it is 100% human to feel panic and worry. Do not let those emotions consume you.

02/10/2024

In recent years, the increasing number of women serving in the military has brought attention to their unique challenges, particularly the pervasive issue of s*xual assault and the lack of safe spaces for healing and recovery.

For women veterans and s*xual assault survivors, the transition back to civilian life often involves not just reintegration into society but also a difficult journey of healing from the trauma they experienced while serving.

With this reality, the creation of safe spaces dedicated to the holistic well-being of women veterans has become more essential than ever.

The Reality: Alarming Statistics of Sexual Assault in the Military

Sexual violence against women in the military is a pervasive issue. According to the Department of Defense's Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military, more than 8,942 cases of s*xual assault were reported in the military that year—a significant increase from previous years.

Among these, women represent a disproportionate number of victims, with about 43% of women in the military reporting that they have experienced s*xual harassment or assault at some point in their service.

Furthermore, a 2023 study by the Veterans Health Administration found that approximately 1 in 4 women veterans seeking healthcare services have reported military s*xual trauma (MST). This trauma can have long-lasting effects, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse, underscoring the need for tailored mental health and support services.

Barriers to Healing: Why Safe Spaces are Critical

Despite these alarming numbers, women veterans often face barriers when seeking care and community after their military service. Traditional veteran spaces, such as Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) posts, have historically been male-dominated and, in some instances, unsafe for women, particularly for those who have experienced s*xual assault. The presence of convicted s*x offenders and individuals with a history of predatory behavior in some veteran organizations has raised serious concerns about safety and inclusivity for women veterans.

Without dedicated safe spaces, women veterans may feel retraumatized or unsafe in environments where they are supposed to receive support and connection. This can lead to isolation, further complicating their healing process. The need for environments that foster trust, empathy, and security is critical for empowering these women to reclaim their lives and heal from the trauma they endured.

Creating a Safe Harbor: Holistic Healing for Women Veterans

Safe spaces for women veterans and s*xual assault survivors should provide more than just physical security—they should offer an inclusive, nurturing environment where women can access holistic wellness services tailored to their specific needs. These spaces can provide a range of support, from trauma-informed therapy and group counseling to wellness programs such as massage therapy, acupuncture, and meditation.

At Heroic Hands Bodywork and Wellness, we recognize the importance of creating such spaces. Our mission is to offer women veterans, s*xual assault survivors, and mothers a sanctuary where they can feel heard, understood, and supported.

By offering holistic services that focus on mental, emotional, and physical healing, we aim to help women regain their sense of control and purpose.

Additionally, our nonprofit, Fidelity Wellness Corp, was created to serve as a beacon of support for women veterans who may not find safety or understanding in traditional veteran spaces.

With a commitment to building communities free from predatory behavior, we are actively working to ensure that every woman veteran can find a place where she feels safe and empowered to heal.

The Call to Action: We Must Do Better

The data speaks for itself—women veterans need our support. Creating safe spaces for their recovery should not be an afterthought, but a priority for all organizations serving this population. Whether it's establishing strict background checks for leadership in veteran organizations, offering trauma-informed services, or building communities that focus on holistic recovery, we must rise to the occasion.

Our women veterans have served our country with honor, often enduring unimaginable trauma along the way. We must ensure they have safe, supportive environments to heal and thrive once they return home.

If you’re a woman veteran or a survivor of s*xual assault seeking support, know that you are not alone, and spaces are being built for you to heal, connect, and grow. Together, we can advocate for more safe spaces that honor the courage and resilience of our women veterans.

Shining Light on Male Sexual Assault in the Military

While much of the conversation surrounding military s*xual assault focuses on women, it's important to acknowledge that men are also significantly affected. According to the Department of Defense's Fiscal Year 2022 report, more than 7,256 male service members reported s*xual assault during their military careers. In fact, men account for more than 37% of all s*xual assault cases in the military.

Despite these numbers, male survivors often face additional stigma, with many struggling to come forward due to fears of shame, retaliation, or damaging their careers. It's crucial that we create inclusive support systems that recognize the trauma male survivors endure and ensure they receive the care and respect they deserve.

Stephanie Petersen (Zegar) is the founder of Heroic Hands Bodywork and Wellness and Fidelity Wellness Corp, dedicated to creating safe spaces for women veterans and s*xual assault survivors.

In recent years, the increasing number of women serving in the military has brought attention to their unique challenges, particularly the pervasive issue of s*xual assault and the lack of safe spaces for healing and rec...

25/09/2024

Women veterans face battles beyond the battlefield—navigating education, motherhood, mental health, and societal judgment.

In my latest blog, I share my personal journey through homelessness, higher education, and the challenges of starting a business as a veteran.

It's time to shed light on the unique struggles women veterans face and why we need more support. 💪

"

Link to the full story:

https://stephaniepetersen.us/blog/f/beyond-the-battlefield-the-untold-struggles-of-women-veterans

With Love,
Stephanie, USMC
Your Woman Veteran Expert

Navigating Higher Education, Mental Illness, and Motherhood as a Woman Veteran

24/09/2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Stephanie Petersen (Zegar)
Heroic Hands Bodywork and Wellness LLC
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 941-250-6875
Website: www.stephaniepetersen.us

The Urgent Crisis within the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW): Convicted Offenders Among Their Ranks
Sarasota, FL — A troubling issue has come to light within the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), where a lack of national policies or bylaws enables convicted s*x offenders and individuals with capital crimes to become members, and even hold leadership positions. This has been highlighted with the formation of VFW Post 12226, revealing that offenders can join without adequate background checks. Alarmingly, leadership at the Florida Department level of the VFW includes an individual who was found guilty of s*xual misconduct allegations, only to return to a leadership role after a brief absence for investigation.

This lack of oversight not only endangers women veterans but also puts at risk the families and children involved in VFW's civic and community programs. Without reform, the VFW could inadvertently become a harbor for predators, exacerbating the already dire situation faced by many women veterans.

Military Sexual Trauma: The Alarming Statistics
Military Sexual Trauma (MST) remains a widespread issue, with approximately 1 in 3 women and 1 in 50 men in the military reporting experiences of s*xual trauma, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs. These numbers reveal the extent of the crisis both during and after military service. For women veterans, joining organizations like the VFW should be a safe, supportive experience—but when convicted offenders are allowed in their ranks, these women face further potential victimization.

The intersection of these statistics with an organization involved in civic programs and children's events underscores the urgency for immediate change. It would be an immense scandal if VFW posts were found to be hotspots for predatory behavior due to inadequate safeguards.

A Safe Space: Heroic Hands Bodywork and Wellness
In response to these alarming trends, Heroic Hands Bodywork and Wellness was established as a safe, healing space for women veterans and s*xual assault survivors. Founded by USMC combat veteran Stephanie Petersen, Heroic Hands offers trauma-informed care, including massage therapy and holistic wellness consulting. Born from her personal struggles, Stephanie’s vision is to provide women veterans with the safe, nurturing environment that she needed earlier in her journey.

Heroic Hands recently launched a Scholarship Program to ensure that women veterans can access healing services at no cost. The program offers three months of holistic care, alternating between massage therapy and coaching sessions, helping women to rebuild their lives with strength, purpose, and confidence.

Fidelity Wellness Corp: A Nonprofit on a Mission
In addition to Heroic Hands, Stephanie Petersen also founded Fidelity Wellness Corp, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women veterans and s*xual assault survivors on their journeys toward self-actualization and purposeful living. Rooted in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, Fidelity Wellness Corp provides comprehensive services to help survivors not only heal but thrive.

The organization is currently seeking two passionate board members to help guide its mission and begin operations immediately. Fidelity Wellness Corp is poised to play a pivotal role in helping women veterans find a path toward healing and empowerment, filling a crucial gap left by traditional veteran organizations.

A Call to Action: Be Part of the Change
We cannot ignore the troubling behavior within the VFW, but instead of abandoning the organization entirely, we propose a solution: a new VFW post—The Delvis Fernandez VFW Post—with a focus on the interests of younger veteran generations, including Desert Storm and 9/11 veterans. This post will welcome stakeholders from our communities as well as military families and will offer inclusive activities such as video game groups, outdoor adventures, a traveling club, a book club, and more. Most importantly, membership to this new post will require a background check, ensuring that no convicted s*x offenders are allowed to join.

If you are with us and want to be part of creating a new, vibrant, and safe VFW community, we urge you to reach out. Together, we can form a post between Manatee and Sarasota counties that represents the true spirit of camaraderie and safety that veterans deserve.

For more information about Heroic Hands Bodywork and Wellness, Fidelity Wellness Corp, or to inquire about forming the Delvis Fernandez Post, visit www.stephaniepetersen.us or contact Stephanie Petersen at 941-250-6875.

Check out the blog article here: https://stephaniepetersen.us/blog/f/unsafe-veteran-organizations-toxic-culture-groupthink

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

10/07/2024

Spend a summer night under the cool shade of GT Bray Park, located at 5502 33rd Avenue Drive West (Bradenton), on Friday, July 26. Bring the family for music and play from 6 to 9 PM. There will be inflatables, a foam play area, face painting and plenty of crafts. Enjoy a free concert, too, by One Night Rodeo (starting at 6:30 PM). Backpack giveaway (while supplies last), food trucks and more. The pool, Walton Racquet Center, fitness center and recreation facility will be open until 9 PM. Sponsored by ZNS Engineering L.C.

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/2412834008917047

02/07/2024

Department of Defense Releases Annual Demographics Report — Upward Trend in Number of Women Serving Continues

While the overall size of our military remained steady, the percentage of women serving on active duty and in the Reserve component continues to grow in both the enlisted and commissioned ranks, according to the newly released 2021 Demographics Profile of the Military Community.

The annual demographics report contains the latest publicly available information on the makeup of the military community, including military members and their dependents. Data highlighted in the report includes information from all services, including gender, race, age, education, family members, pay grades and other important facts.

Data from the 2021 report can also be viewed in a fully interactive dashboard that allows users to select and view the latest available demographic data by various criteria, such as service branch, gender, pay grade and state of current residence.

In 2021, women made up 17.3% of the active-duty force, totaling 231,741 members; and 21.4% of the National Guard and reserves at 171,000 members. The year before, women made up 17.2% of the active-duty force and 21.1% of the Guard and reserve. Since 2017, the percentages of women in the active-duty and selected reserve have risen 1.1% and 1.8% respectively.

To capture data unique to women in active military service, the 2021 demographics profile features an interactive "Women in the Military" infographic to display key demographics related to their personal, family and military life.

"The over 3 million women who have served in or with the armed forces since the American Revolution have contributed immensely to the strength and resilience of our armed forces," said' Patricia Montes Barron, deputy assistant secretary of defense for military community and family policy. "The annual demographics profile reports provide a lens on the ever-changing diversity of our armed forces, providing essential information for policymakers, researchers and other organizations who contribute to the readiness and well-being of the military community,"

The annual demographics report is available on Military OneSource.

While the overall size of our military remained steady, the percentage of women serving on active duty and in the Reserve component continues to grow in both the enlisted and commissioned ranks.