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(ABOVE) STEPHANIE RETIRED FROM THE ARMY AS A STAFF SERGEANT AND COMBAT MEDIC. (RIGHT) STEPHANIE MOORE AND HER FAMILY
In addition to her own therapy and care, connecting with others who’ve undergone similar trauma has been an important part of Stephanie’s life after the Army. “When I got out [of the Army] I still needed to find a way to serve,” said Stephanie. “Volunteering and giving back to others is my way of serving now.” Stephanie is a “Warrior Leader,” a peer mentor for the Wounded Warrior Project, which helps physically or mentally wounded service members, and their families, tran- sition to civilian life and connects them to resources and support, all at no cost to them. Stephanie hosts in-person and online events to help link service members, veterans and their caregivers to resources, equipment and other needs. She has a special affinity for the Wounded Warrior Project logo, which depicts one service member carrying another. “At first, I was the service member [being carried] and now I’m able to support those who need help,” said Stephanie. “I realize that all the therapy, treatment and appointments have gotten me to this point and I’m able to use my journey to help others now.” Stephanie says it’s important for her to give back to those organizations that have supported her healing. She is also involved in Autism Oklahoma, where she and her husband, Chris, lead a assistance group, provide event support and fundraise, all inspired by their 12-year-old son, Memphis. “When we first found out our son was on the autism spectrum, we didn’t know what to do or where to turn,” said Stephanie. From providing family programs and events where Memphis has been able to interact with other kids to connecting the Moore family with speech, occupational and behavioral therapists, Stephanie says the help and support the organization has
provided their family has been tremendous. She’s also been able to take advantage of informational classes and opportunities for respite, self-care and connection with other parents who understand her child and the importance of creating a world that is more inclusive of those with differences. “They are all amazing kids, each one of them different and unique,” said Stephanie of children on the autism spectrum. “Be patient, be kind and try to include them as much as possible. I’ve learned a great deal from Memphis; he’s my little guy who I look up to.” Stephanie finds her hope for the future in her children, who make her proud every day. Of her three kids who currently live at home, her oldest son, Timothy, will start college in the fall, pursuing a degree in video game development, her daughter will start high school and Memphis will start junior high, where he’ll play on the soccer team. Stephanie plans to finish her master’s degree in crisis and trauma counseling so she can work closely with veterans and their families to provide a listening ear from someone who has experienced a similar life journey. In addition to serving others, she will continue to prioritize her own health. She’s made it a goal this year to attend monthly retreats for veterans with PTSD. “They have programs and treatment for mental health, plus I can decompress with outdoor activities, which I love,” said Stephanie. “It’s a way to reset and recharge and come home ready to take it all on again.” Stephanie hopes that in sharing her story other moms will understand the value in putting themselves first. “Always taking care of everyone else can be draining,” said Stephanie. “It’s important for all moms to take the time for themselves.”
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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY-JUNE 2022 27
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