Come to the Table with Dr. Pam Arnell

Come to the Table with Dr. Pam Arnell

by | Apr 2, 2025 | Events, Invisible Warriors

Come to the Table with Dr. Pam Arnell

You are warmly invited to join our quarterly event, Come to the Table, on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 12:00 ET/11:00 CT. All women are welcome to attend this live event.

Special guests present on a topic of interest followed by related questions and discussions. Our aim is provide a sense of not being alone. At Come to the Table, we talk about all things life, but in a kind and uplifting way – never moaning or groaning.

The Power of Peer Support and Resources

This month we have as our special guest, Dr. Pam Arnell, President/CEO of 22Zero, a nonprofit peer-to-peer program to heal emotional and mental scars using Trauma Resiliency Protocol and Emotional Management Process. Learn more here: https://22zero.org/

Dr. Arnell was appointed President/CEO of 22Zero on February 27, 2025, after two impactful years as Executive Director. Under her leadership, 22Zero has become a vital resource for women veterans grappling with Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS) and Military Sexual Trauma (MST).

With a strong foundation in research, Dr. Arnell has cultivated partnerships, notably with Arizona State University, leading to the publication of one study in 2024 and two more currently under peer review, including her co-authored work. In 2025, she will contribute to an additional study, further validating evidence-based practices at 22Zero.

Dr. Arnell has launched the 22Zero Ambassador program and the “Heroes Untold Stories” initiative, both aimed at expanding 22Zero’s mission. Her role encompasses strategic vision, overseeing operations, and fostering relationships with stakeholders to ensure compliance and promote a culture of transparency and collaboration.

An active advocate for mental health and suicide prevention, Dr. Arnell chairs the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network Committee and has completed various suicide prevention trainings. Her dedication extends beyond 22Zero, as she engages with community organizations and holds leadership roles in multiple local initiatives.

Through her commitment and expertise, Dr. Arnell continues to empower women veterans and drive meaningful change within the community.

Join Us!

Mark your calendars now, and on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 12:00 pm ET/11:00 am CT, click this Zoom link to join what is sure to be an insightful conversation!

Come to the Table with Dr. Pam Arnell

Invisible Warriors

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The Unseen Revolution of Women in the Military

The Unseen Revolution of Women in the Military

by | Feb 24, 2025 | Invisible Warriors

How Women Are Quietly Rewriting the Rules of Military Excellence

We often celebrate the trailblazing women in the military who’ve shattered barriers—but what about the reverse impact? What happens when a system built on rigid traditions collides with perspectives that challenge its very DNA? The answer is a quiet revolution reshaping everything from battlefield strategy to how teams survive under pressure.

Here’s what nobody’s talking about: The presence of women in the military hasn’t just opened doors—it’s reprogrammed military culture itself.

Take leadership. For decades, command structures prioritized hierarchy and top-down directives. But studies of mixed-gender units, like those in NATO’s recent trials, found that teams with women leaders were 30% more likely to use collaborative decision-making under fire. Why? Women often default to consensus-building in high-stress scenarios, leading to faster problem-solving when stakes are life-or-death.

Or consider communication. In the 1990s, U.S. Army units with female medics reported a 22% drop in “friendly fire” incidents. Why? Women were more likely to clarify ambiguous orders in real-time, reducing lethal misunderstandings. Today, this skill is formalized in training programs like “Active Listening Drills”—a practice borrowed from female soldiers’ instinctive approach to dialogue.

Even physical training is evolving. When Norway integrated women into Special Forces, they scrapped brute-strength tests for endurance-based challenges (e.g., 12-mile hikes with 90lb packs). The result? Injury rates dropped by 40% across all recruits—proving that redefining “strength” wasn’t about lowering standards, but smarter ones.

But here’s the twist: The military is changing women, too. Female veterans consistently rank higher in post-service leadership roles compared to civilian peers. Why? Surviving hyper-structured, high-risk environments teaches a unique form of resilience—one that’s now fueling Fortune 500 boards and startups alike.

So, next time someone reduces military women to “breaking barriers,” remind them: This isn’t just about equality; it’s about reengineering excellence.

Question to ponder: If a woman’s instinct to ask “Why?” instead of saying “Yes, sir” can save lives in combat, what could it do for your team’s next crisis?

 

The Unseen Revolution of Women in the Military

Invisible Warriors

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Silent Battlefields of Military Sexual Trauma

Silent Battlefields of Military Sexual Trauma

by | Feb 22, 2025 | Invisible Warriors

Silent Battlefields of Military Sexual Trauma

The Unseen Crisis and the Urgent Need for Change

The statistics are not just numbers—they are a chilling indictment of a systemic failure for those suffering military sexual trauma.

According to the Grunt Style Foundation, reports of sexual assault in the military surged from 1,700 in 2004 to 8,515 in 2023, despite the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program (SAPR) being touted as the military’s “central authority” for combating this epidemic. These figures, however, reveal only the tip of the iceberg. The Department of Defense estimates 29,000 service members were sexually assaulted in 2023 alone. A 2024 study further suggests the true scale is far worse, with sexual violence occurring at rates two to four times higher than documented—potentially reaching the high five figures.

The Illusion of Progress

While rising reports may signal a culture shifting toward accountability, they also expose a darker truth: survivors are navigating a labyrinth of institutional betrayal. For every brave individual who comes forward, countless others remain silent, paralyzed by rational fear. Retaliation is not a hypothetical risk—it is a documented reality. In 2018, over half of military women who reported assaults faced ostracism, 34% endured maltreatment, and 23% suffered professional reprisal. These are not isolated acts of cruelty; they are systemic tools of suppression. Survivors, whether women or men (who comprise a smaller but significant percentage of victims), are forced to weigh their safety against justice, knowing the system designed to protect them may instead compound their military sexual trauma.

A Culture of Complicity

The military’s reliance on hierarchical structures and unit cohesion, while vital to operational success, has inadvertently fostered environments where predators operate with impunity. Perpetrators often hold positions of authority, and survivors face an impossible choice: report and risk career sabotage, or suffer in silence to preserve their livelihoods. This toxic dynamic perpetuates cycles of abuse, eroding trust in leadership and destabilizing the very foundation of military readiness.

The Collapse of Accountability

The recent decision by the Marine Corps and Navy to temporarily halt SAPR—a program already criticized for its inefficacy—is a catastrophic misstep. It sends a message that combating sexual violence is optional, a secondary priority rather than a moral imperative. If institutions tasked with safeguarding service members cannot uphold their duty, the burden of accountability falls to society itself.

A Call to Arms

To dismiss this crisis as a “military issue” is to abandon the men and women who pledge their lives to defend our freedoms. Their battlefields should not include their own ranks. We demand three actions:

  1. Transparency: Independent oversight of military justice systems to eliminate conflicts of interest.
  2. Protection: Legislation shielding survivors from retaliation, ensuring whistleblower safeguards.
  3. Cultural Reform: Mandatory training dismantling toxic power dynamics, led by trauma-informed experts.

The time for passive outrage is over. These numbers represent human beings—colleagues, siblings, parents, friends—whose military sexual trauma has been minimized and weaponized against them. Silence is complicity. We must amplify their voices, hold institutions accountable, and declare unequivocally: the era of impunity ends now.

Stand with survivors. Demand change. The cost of inaction is measured in lives.

Silent Battlefields of Military Sexual Trauma

Invisible Warriors

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Giving Tuesday 2024

Giving Tuesday 2024

by | Nov 14, 2024 | Invisible Warriors

Giving Tuesday 2024

As we approach the season of gratitude and giving, there’s a day that stands out as a beacon of hope and generosity—Giving Tuesday. This global movement, celebrated annually on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, encourages individuals and communities to transform their compassion into action. It’s a day dedicated to giving back, and this year, there’s a cause that truly deserves your attention and support: Invisible Warriors.
 
Invisible Warriors is a remarkable organization committed to uplifting women veterans who face the challenges of PTSD, MST (Military Sexual Trauma), and other invisible illnesses. These courageous women have served our country, yet many continue to fight silent battles long after their military service has ended. Through peer support, resources, workshops, and more, Invisible Warriors offers a lifeline to these veterans, helping them reclaim their lives and find strength in their shared experiences.
 

The Power of Peer Support and Resources

Invisible Warriors understands the unique struggles faced by women veterans. They provide a safe space where these women can connect with others who have walked similar paths. Through peer support groups, they offer a community of understanding, where veterans can share their stories without judgment and find solace in knowing they are not alone.
 
In addition to emotional support, Invisible Warriors equips these women with vital resources. From access to mental health services to educational workshops, they empower veterans to navigate their paths to healing and personal growth. By addressing the holistic needs of these women, Invisible Warriors fosters resilience and hope.
 

Workshops That Inspire and Heal

The workshops offered by Invisible Warriors are more than just educational sessions; they are transformative experiences. Tailored to address the specific needs of women veterans, these workshops cover a range of topics, including coping strategies, creative expression, and career development. They provide participants with practical tools and insights, enabling them to rebuild their lives with confidence and purpose.
 

A Gift That Gives Back: The 2025 Calendar

This Giving Tuesday, your generosity can have a profound impact. With a donation of $50 or more to Invisible Warriors, you’ll receive a beautiful 2025 calendar. This isn’t just any calendar—it’s a collection of artwork created by talented artists who have captured the essence of what it means to be an Invisible Warrior. Each piece of art reflects the strength, resilience, and hope that define these incredible women. By donating, you’re not only supporting a vital cause but also receiving a meaningful gift that celebrates the courage of women veterans.
 

Join the Movement

Your support on Giving Tuesday can make a world of difference for women veterans struggling with invisible wounds. By donating to Invisible Warriors, you’re investing in their healing journey and empowering them to thrive. Let’s stand together in solidarity and show our gratitude for their service by giving back in a way that truly matters.
 
This Giving Tuesday, be a part of something greater. Support Invisible Warriors and help transform lives. Together, we can make a lasting impact and honor the invisible warriors among us.

 

Donate to Giving Tuesday
Donate to Giving Tuesday

Giving Tuesday 2024

Invisible Warriors

Want to know more about Invisible Warriors? Sign up for our newsletter to receive regular updates. Contact us HERE. Or click the button below to schedule a meeting with Founder Nancy Becher!

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Validating an Invisible Illnesses

Validating an Invisible Illnesses

by | Jun 12, 2024 | Invisible Warriors

Validating an Invisible Illness

Kathy had been feeling really rundown and achy for months. She went to see her primary care doctor multiple times, but each time the doctor dismissed her concerns saying things like, “You just need more rest” or, “It’s probably just stress.” Thus her journey for validating an invisible illness began.

She knew something wasn’t right, though. The fatigue and pain she felt was not normal. But the doctor made her start questioning herself and wondering if maybe she was just being dramatic.

Trying her best to push through and live a normal life, it became harder and harder. Simple tasks like going to work, cleaning the house, or running errands left her utterly exhausted.

Finally, after nearly a year of suffering, Kathy found a new doctor. She explained all her symptoms – the fatigue, body aches, brain fog, and more. This doctor actually listened. They ran some tests and eventually diagnosed her with fibromyalgia, a chronic condition that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue.

Finally relieved to have an answer, she was also frustrated that she had been dismissed and gaslit by previous doctors who made her feel like her very real symptoms were just in her head. With proper treatment and management, her symptoms became more under control, but it was a long journey to get the care she deserved.

Asserting Your Rights as a Patient

Self-advocating at the doctor’s office when they are not listening or taking your illness seriously can be extremely frustrating, but it’s important to persist if you have any chance of validating your invisible illness. Here are some steps to follow:

Come Prepared
• Keep a detailed symptom journal tracking when issues occur, their severity, triggers, etc. Having concrete data helps validate your experiences.
• Bring research on your suspected condition from reputable sources to educate the doctor.
• Make a list of your key concerns and questions so you don’t get flustered and forget anything important.

Be Respectfully Assertive
• Don’t minimize or downplay your symptoms. Describe their full impact on your daily life.
• If the doctor dismisses you, respectfully reiterate the facts and that you need them to take this seriously.
• Ask them to specifically explain why they think your symptoms are due to another cause.

Bring Support
• Having a spouse, friend or family member attend appointments can provide a second voice corroborating your symptoms.
• They can also take notes, ask questions you may miss, and advocate on your behalf.

Know Your Rights
• You have the right to view test results and records to ensure critical information isn’t missed.
• You can request a second opinion, either from another doctor in the same practice or elsewhere.
• If you feel you’re still being dismissed, you can change practices entirely. Your health is priority.

Self-advocacy takes persistence, but don’t give up until you find a doctor who truly listens. Getting a proper diagnosis and treatment plan can make a life-changing difference for your well-being.

Ways to Better Explain What’s Going on in Your Body

Sometimes we aren’t clear enough about what we’re feeling. Here are some examples of how to clearly and effectively describe your illness to a doctor:

Symptom Details
• “The fatigue I experience is completely debilitating. Even after nine hours of sleep, I wake up feeling just as drained as when I went to bed.”
• “The joint pain and stiffness is worst in my knees, hips, and hands. It’s severe enough that some days I can barely get out of bed or grip objects.”
• “I get dizzy spells and headaches almost daily, usually worsened by standing for too long.”
• “I’ve noticed this red, butterfly-shaped rash comes and goes on my cheeks when I’ve had a symptom flare.”

Impact on Life
• “This illness has caused me to miss 12 work days in the last two months because of symptom severity.”
• “Simple household chores like vacuuming or doing laundry leave me utterly exhausted for the rest of the day.”
• “I’ve had to stop exercising and attending my weekly tennis matches, which was a big stress-relief activity for me.”
• “My symptoms make it difficult to concentrate, so I’m struggling in my college courses right now.”

Tracking Patterns
• “I’ve noticed I tend to have flare-ups of muscle weakness and fever about a week after getting a virus like the cold or flu.”
• “My symptoms seem to be cyclical – they’ll be manageable for a couple weeks and then I’ll have an intense flare that lasts 7-10 days.”
• “Certain foods like gluten, dairy or alcohol appear to trigger more joint pain and brain fog within 24 hours after eating them.”

Using descriptive details, keeping a log, and quantifying the impact can all help the doctor better understand your unique condition. Don’t hold back – honest communication is crucial for validating your invisible illness.

Validating an Invisible Illness

Want to know more about Invisible Warriors? Sign up for our newsletter to receive regular updates. Contact us HERE. Or click the button below to schedule a meeting with Founder Nancy Becher!

Schedule a meeting with Nancy
Come to the Table with Dr. Ann Hester, MD

Come to the Table with Dr. Ann Hester, MD

by | Apr 29, 2024 | Events, Invisible Warriors

Come to the Table with Dr. Ann Hester, MD

You are warmly invited to join our regular event, Come to the Table, on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at 12:00 ET/11:00 CT. This peer support group is part of the Invisible Warriors Club where women feel loved and supported, valuable and worthwhile. All women are welcome.

Special guests, discussions, and training about ongoing invisible illnesses and autoimmune disorders provide a sense of not being alone. At Come to the Table, we talk about all things life and invisible illnesses, but in a kind and uplifting way – never moaning and groaning.

This month we have as our special guest, Dr. Ann Hester, MD, Internal Medicine Specialist with 30+ years in practice. Dr. Hester’s passion is patient empowerment. For over two decade, she has worked diligently to educate healthcare consumers on powerful, easy-to-understand methods to optimize their health (and their health care) and lower their medical bills. Dr. Hester is also the author of Patient Empowerment 101. (Learn more HERE.)

Dr. Hester is also a syndicated columnist as part of the Price of Business Digital Network. Patient empowerment is her theme, of course. “What else could it be? Few things in life are as motivating and satisfying as empowering people to live stronger, longer lives,” says Dr. Hester in her LinkedIn profile. (Follow her on LinkedIn HERE.)

Topics for this Come to the Table include:

  • how to better prepare for upcoming doctor visits
  • optimize doctor-patient communication to optimize your care and save money
  • how to be “respectfully assertive”
  • the importance of having a health advocate

Come to the Table online with Invisible Warriors founder Nancy Becher and Dr. Hester on Wednesday, May 15th by clicking HERE to join the Zoom at 12:00 ET/11:00 CT.

Come to the Table with Dr. Ann Hester

Want to know more about Invisible Warriors? Sign up for our newsletter to receive regular updates. Contact us HERE. Or click the button below to schedule a meeting with Founder Nancy Becher!

Schedule a meeting with Nancy