Meet The Team

Described as “a driven person with out of the box insights,” Lannon has successfully built and operated 6 healing centers. With a bold vision to bring 1 million warriors home from addiction and PTSD, Warriors Heart is leading the way in chemical dependency treatment for our Warriors.

Growing up, Josh apprenticed under his father’s direction by operating the family owned nightclubs in Las Vegas, Nevada. Josh’s leadership and team led the Vegas nightclubs to be voted the #1 country club, five years in a row.

In 2002, Josh refocused himself to creating a career in sobriety and building businesses that are more socially conscious. He retired from the nightclub industry and, together, Josh and Lisa Lannon launched their first recovery center, Journey Healing Centers, a private drug and alcohol treatment center. JHC grew to six locations with 100 team members. Then in late 2013, Elements Behavioral Health, a leading nationwide provider, acquired JHC.

Josh has also dedicated three decades to studying the martial arts. He has a “Senior Professor of Arts” ranking as a 7th degree black belt as a personal student to the Grandmaster, Mr. Paul Mills. Josh is a leading Professor at the AKKI annual international seminars and teaches worldwide. Josh is currently getting his butt kicked going through the ranks in the Brazilian Jujitsu. He loves learning and taking on challenges.

Josh’s continued passion for building businesses assisting those who are struggling from addiction is one of the driving forces behind Warriors Heart.

Described as “a protector with compassion.” Lisa has a bold passion in building businesses and providing safe world class healing environments assisting warriors in sobriety and healing. Her mission is to build healing facilities for our Warriors – Veterans, Active Military, Police Officers and other 1st Responders/Protectors.

Lannon is a Social Entrepreneur, author and international speaker. Lisa is the Founder of Brooke Property Management and is an investor in commercial buildings, residential homes, apartment complexes with holdings of over 2600 units and commodities.

Lisa has been featured in interviews on PBS’s Rich Woman Show, Fox News, JetSet Magazine, EmpowHer, Rich Dad Radio, along with other media outlets and speaks at financial education events worldwide.

Lisa was a commissioned Law Enforcement Officer for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, where during her time with LVMPD, she primarily worked on the booking floor. She dealt with addiction and combative people on a daily basis. Lisa trained other officers on the AFIS system and sat on a panel to interview new civilian potential hires.

Lisa and Josh have been inseparable since 1995, and are proud parents of two young amazing children. They’ve dedicated themselves to building a businesses that makes sense and address social problems.

Tom Spooner’s service to our nation in the U.S. Army spanned twenty-one years. His career included time in the 82nd Airborne, as a Green Beret in the US Army’s 7th Special Forces Group and, ultimately, in the elite US Army’s 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment Delta. In his military career that included 3 years of direct action combat deployments, Tom was able to accomplish what less than .001% of US military personnel have by becoming a Delta Force Operator.

After retiring from the Army, Tom approached his struggles with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) with the same tenacity and commitment to excellence that he did his military career. He began speaking candidly about the repercussions of his experiences and the reality of the difficulties he had coping with them. Determined to help his community cope with suicide and addiction as a result of their experiences in war, Tom has rededicated his professional efforts to healing. With a voice nearly unmatched in credibility and experience, Tom has successfully enabled thousands of military and law enforcement personnel to admit their struggles, seek treatment, and understand that they are not alone.

Tom has been married for 24 years to the love of his life and is the proud father of 2 young men.

Executive Team

Angel L. Lugo is a retired U.S. Army Colonel who served 30 years on active duty as a Healthcare Operations/Administration Officer. Prior to retiring in 2012, he served as Chief of Staff/COO for the Army’s Northern Regional Medical Command and Walter Reed Army Medical Center where he provided staff oversight of the Army’s largest regional health system including the Army’s largest Wounded Warrior population. Prior to that, he was the first Chief of Staff/COO for the Defense Center of Excellence for Psych Health and TBI where he established a joint staff organization focused on policies, procedures, guidelines, research, and tools in Psych Health & TBI to support Warriors and their Families. After his retirement, Angel is founder & CEO of his own Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), Lugo Vantage Solutions LLC, providing consulting services within the federal health sector specializing in military and Veterans health management. He also provides no cost job placement assistance to Veterans in transition. Angel’s career has been about serving our nation alongside Soldiers and supporting Warriors. He joined the military to serve and provide for his Family but stayed because the military is a unique Family of those dedicated to serve and protect our nation. That is why he is both excited and humbled to join the Warriors Heart Team as CSO and lead its mission to heal and support Warriors to bring them home.

In addition to the capstone Chief of Staff positions, COL (Ret) Lugo held many command and staff positions including: Director, DoD Executive Agencies (Medical), Office of The Surgeon General (OTSG), U.S. Army, Falls Church, VA; Hospital Commander, 212th MASH and CSH, Miesau, Germany; Commander, Task Force 212th MASH (Pakistan Earthquake Relief), Pakistan; Program Director, Medical Reengineering Initiative (MRI), OTSG; Battalion Commander, 61st Area Support Medical Battalion (ASMB), Fort Hood, Texas; Chief, Medical Operations, XVIII Airborne Corps and Deputy Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, G-3, 44th Medical Brigade (Airborne), Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Executive Officer, 61st ASMB, Fort Hood, Texas; Deputy Chief of Plans, Operations, Training, & Security Division and Plans Officer, 97th General Hospital/Frankfurt Medical Center, Germany; Commander, C Company (Medical), 45th Forward Support Battalion, 3rd Armored Division, Germany and South West Asia (Persian Gulf War); Administrative Officer, Fort Dix MEDDAC and Executive Officer and Commander, 556th Medical Company (Ground Ambulance), Fort Dix, New Jersey; and Operations Officer, S-3/PAD, 2nd MASH and Med Platoon Leader, 2/69th Armor Battalion, Ft. Benning, Georgia.

He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Microbiology and Hispanic Literature from Rutgers College in New Jersey and received his commission from Rutgers University ROTC Program as a Distinguished Military Graduate in 1982. He earned a Master of Public Administration (Health Services focus) at the University of Missouri at Kansas City, Missouri. COL (Ret) Lugo is also a graduate of the United States Army Command and General Staff College and the Army War College Fellowship at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. He is a certified joint medical planner and trained as a Project Management Professional (PMP). He is Board Certified in Healthcare Management and is a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Awards and decorations that COL (Ret) Lugo earned include the Bronze Star Medal, Valorous Unit Award, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (7th award), Army Commendation Medal (4th award), Army Achievement Medal (5th award), Humanitarian Service Medal, U.S. Public Health Service Unit Commendation, Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Expert Field Medical Badge, Army Staff Identification Badge, Staff Identification Badge – Department of Health and Human Services, and Order of Military Medical Merit Medallion.

Christina Moreno was born in Odessa, Texas and was raised in Bandera, Texas.  Christina attended Bandera Schools.

At 15, Christina started working for Bandera County as a clerk for the Bandera County Treasurer.  While attending college at the University of Texas at San Antonio, Christina transitioned into different positions in the Auditor’s Office.  After college graduation, Christina was appointed the youngest County Auditor in the State of Texas at the age of 22 by the 216th District Judge.  She served Bandera County for twenty years!

In November 2019, after working part time for Warriors Heart for 3 years, Christina decided to make her passion her purpose and joined the Warriors Heart team full time.

In her free time, Christina crochets and takes long walks on the beach.  Just kidding – there are no beaches in Bandera.  She enjoys time with her family, working out, and testing her husband’s limits.   Her and her husband, Louie, are active in the community and are proud to call Bandera home.  Christina and Louie have a blended family of two girls and a boy:  Taytum, Gio, and Maddox.

Although a native Texan, Brett spent much of his early life outside of the state, living on the west coast in California as well as the east coast in a suburb of Washington DC. Shortly after graduating college, he moved back to Texas and began a career consulting with the Department of Defense on real estate and renewable energy projects as a part of the military’s enhanced use lease program. After leaving the government consulting industry he moved into the corporate finance realm and found a knack for helping companies and brands build long term plans and strategies for sustainable growth and delivering value to customers and stakeholders. He’s worked in a variety of industries including energy, real estate, manufacturing, medical, retail, education, and technology; along with a variety of great Texas brands and companies such as Tesoro, Kinetic Concepts, Whataburger, Evidence in Motion, and Scaleworks. Today Brett lives in San Antonio with his wife Beth, two wonderful children Aidan and Owen, and two rescue dogs Bean and Dixie. An avid fitness enthusiast, Brett enjoys all kinds of physical activity including hiking, kayaking, biking, CrossFit, and strength training, and doesn’t consider his day complete unless he can get in a good 5-kilometer run or a lengthy Tabata battle-rope workout.

Kayle Christian was raised in Bandera, Texas. She graduated from Sam Houston State University with a Bachelor of Business Administration. Over the past several years she worked in the construction industry for General Contractors and found a passion for Human Resources. She’s proud to serve on the Warriors Heart team.

Kayle and husband Clint have been married since 2015. They have twin boys, Jace and Ryan, that keep them on their toes. In her spare time, Kayle enjoys event planning, spending time with family, good coffee, her black lab, Blaise, and her mini-Aussie, Mia (aka Tuna).

Danetra was born in Virginia but was raise in different states throughout the US as a “military brat”. Shortly after graduating high school, the age of 17, Danetra enlisted in the Arkansas Air National Guard as a Personnelist (HR). Shortly after completing basic and technical school she had gone full-time completing her first 3 years in the service as an NCO in Arkansas.

She was then abruptly bitten by the “adventure bug” and decided to palace chase to San Antonio, Texas, where she finished her first enlistment completing 6 years in the United States Air Force (USAF).

At 19, Justin enlisted in the United States Air Force, during his 20 years of service he held a variety of different jobs, everything from Cook to Combat Readiness Instructor. His most taxing job, however, would be when he was assigned as the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge, Mortuary Affairs.

In late 2012 Justin decided to share his story in the book, “And Then I Cried, Stories of a Mortuary NCO”. His hope was that his story could help others struggling with PTSD. In 2013 Justin was Medically Retired from the Air Force with 20 years of service. Justin continued his advocacy and worked with The Air Force Wounded Warrior Program where he managed the Ambassador Program. He was responsible for teaching seriously injured or ill Airman how to tell and share their stories of recovery with audience’s worldwide.

Justin is also an accomplished artist and his paintings can be seen hanging in the Pentagon. His book continues to help others who are struggling and he continues his advocacy coming to Warriors Heart excited to start his next chapter helping warriors find treatment.

Ivette Bruno was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She was raised in San Antonio, Texas by a strong military family where her father retired from the US Army when she was 3 years old. She graduated from Theodore Roosevelt High School in 1982 and later decided to become a teacher. She graduated from Southwest Texas State University, currently Texas State University, with her Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. She taught Biology and Dance to Middle and High School students. While teaching full time, Ivette found her calling and decided to pursue her Master of Science Degree in Guidance and Counseling. Her passion for helping her students, parents, and staff-led her to a 34-year career. Ivette recently retired in December 2020 from Northside Independent School District where she worked as a District Test Coordinator in the district office.

Although Ivette’s father retired early in her life, her military background continued through her two brothers, nephews/great-nephew,s and many cousins serving in the US Army and US Air Force. She currently has a nephew and great-nephew actively serving in the US Army.

Ivette enjoys fishing as much as she can, camping, various outdoor activities, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Kristin is a transplant to Bandera & has called Bandera her home for the past 8 years with her husband, Matthew who happens to be a Bandera graduate. She has been a stay at home mom for the past few years. Kristin volunteers her time by helping coach youth sports as well as helping with the Bandera County 4H program.

When Kristin is not volunteering her time she is an avid cross fitter and every chance she gets she is competing. She also loves to travel and enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

Kristin has always been a big supporter of our Military and 1st Responders. She has several siblings and family members that have and are serving in the Army, Air Force, and Police Department.

Dona was born in Kerrville, Texas. She was raised not far from there on a working ranch in Bandera, Texas where she attended school in both Bandera and Medina. The last two years of high school, Dona worked at Bandera Downs as a marketing and publicity assistant. Dona took an opportunity out of state where she enjoyed the beautiful mountains of Colorado for several years. She loved Colorado but the opportunity arose for her to return to Bandera, where she spent 15 years working for the Bandera County Treasurer and Auditor’s office before joining Warriors Heart.

Dona is the daughter of a Vietnam Veteran. Her sister, brother-in-law, step brother, cousins and many close friends are all warriors. Dona enjoys the outdoors. You will find her, her husband Chance and their dogs out fishing, boating and traveling most of the time. Dona’s passion for all creatures is exhibited by her ability to help nature and relocate “nuisance critters” and an occasional rehabilitation when the opportunity arises

Medical Team

Dr. Holt was born in Kerrville and grew up in Comfort, where he graduated from high school in 1996. He received his B.A. at the University of Texas at Austin, then went on to the University of Texas at Houston medical school. He then completed his Family Medicine residency training at the Waco Family Medicine Residency Program. He returned home to the Hill Country in 2008, and joined the Fredericksburg Clinic.

In addition to his busy family medicine clinic, he has worked in the field of addiction medicine since 2008, when he started working at Serenity House Drug & Alcohol treatment facility. He received board certification in Addiction Medicine in November 2014 and became the medical director of the One-Eighty detox service at Hill Country Memorial Hospital in May 2015. He also accepted the position of medical director at Awakenings Hill Country, which opened in August 2015 and is a drug and alcohol detox and rehabilitation center for women.

In January 2017, Dr Holt added the position of associate medical director for Hill Country Memorial Hospice to his extensive experience. He has now accepted the medical director position at Warriors Heart, and is excited about the opportunity to help serve those in the military, veterans and first responders.

Dr Holt enjoys playing the piano and guitar, and he also enjoys camping and fishing. He lives in Fredericksburg with his wife and their four sons. He loves spending time with his family.

Stephen Jansky was born in Texas on a ranch a couple hours East of here.  He was raised on the ranch and attended school in a small town about 15 minutes away.  Stephen was an LVN for 9 years and in 2004 he graduated from the University of Texas with a BSN.  He has worked everything from nursing homes to trauma and everything in between including the burn unit at BAMC for 8 years.  Stephen has served 3 years in the Army and was a volunteer fire fighter for a few years right out of high school.  He loves hunting, fishing, and writing.  Stephen is passionate about helping people in any way he can. He has been married to his soulmate and best friend for 23 years.

Star Rodriguez grew up in Bandera and graduated in 2007. She always had an interest in being in the medical field and eventually started to work at a Primary care office on the insurance side. She decided to go back to school a few years later and graduated in 2019 with her RN.  She gained most of her experience working on a Neurology floor and then went on to work in many different settings including the ER at her current hospital. Her and her husband, who is also a Bandera Alum, welcomed a baby boy in 2021 and they also have 2 furbabies.  They all love the beach, going out on the boat and just being with family and friends.

Krystal Ortiz was born in San Antonio, TX and raised in Bandera, TX where she later graduated high school. Krystal was raised in a family of nurses and has always had a desire to help heal others. She went on to graduate nursing school in 2018 and has been a Registered Nurse for 4 years with experience in Neuro critical care. Krystal is married to Army veteran Wyatt Ortiz and together they have 3 beautiful daughters who are their pride and joy. In their spare time they love to enjoy the outdoors by hiking, swimming, and exploring the beautiful hill country. Krystal is honored to care, serve and help heal the amazing people who fought for our country.

With a 15-year military medicine history providing top-notch patient care in diverse clinical and field environments, Leah possess extensive experience in both the military and civilian sectors. She served as a combat medic for 8 years before transitioning to an Army Physician Assistant. Some of her key positions included serving as a paratrooper with the prestigious 82nd Airborne division including a 15-month deployment to Iraq. She was the clinic NCOIC at 6th Ranger training Battalion, an Infantry battalion PA in the 101st Airborne Division followed by selection and assignment as the first woman Special Forces Physician Assistant.

As an Aeromedical Physician Assistant in the military she worked autonomously in austere environments and managed both traumatic injuries as well as critical care medical issues independently. Since transitioning to the civilian sector, she has practiced clinically as an Emergency Medicine Physician Assistant as well as an entrepreneur. She is the owner and CEO of a medical consulting practice dedicated to fighting for veterans to establish and maintain medical compensation and pension. She is a compassionate team-oriented provider who cares about details and takes pride in a job not only completed but done well with patient satisfaction.

Whitney was born in Northern California but raised in Washington state. After graduating from a tiny high school in Cowiche, WA, she decided to take off on her own and find her way in the world. Whitney was sitting in a nowhere job making cabinets when she decided to join the military, all through high school her favorite teacher, Mr. Tate would tell them stories from his military days, and it had a huge impact on her views of the military despite having family who did not approve or appreciate the sacrifices our troops made. Three weeks after the thought popped in her mind, she left for bootcamp. Whitney PROUDLY served in the Navy as a Master at Arms. Becoming a mother made it harder to stay active duty so after her contract was up, she transitioned to a full time mom of 6 (plus amazing step children).

Jennifer Wade was born in San Antonio, Texas. She grew up as a Texas Native in Orange Grove, Texas. She attended Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and received her Bachelor’s in Nursing in 2010. She then returned home to Bandera, Texas to serve those in her community as a medical-surgical registered nurse for 1 year in Kerrville. She then pursued a career in emergency medicine for Methodist Healthcare System for 6.5 years.

Her deep desire to serve her local community was strong and lead her to return to school an earn her Master of Science in Nursing- Family Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi in May of 2019. She is credentialed by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners as a family nurse practitioner. She is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and the Golden Key Honor Society. She is an active member of the Texas Nurse Practitioners Association, the Hill Country Nurse Practitioner Association, and the American Nurses Association. Jennifer is also a member of the Bandera Eastern Star Chapter.

Jennifer is married to a Marine Veteran who served two tours in Iraq. She understands the struggles of our brave men and women who proudly serve our country. With this background, she is deeply honored to be able to serve them in their time of need.

On her off-time, Jennifer has property outside Bandera where she resides with her husband, Donald, of three years and her four dogs. She loves working in the yard, fishing, kayaking, hunting and enjoying time with her family and friends.

Veronica Chapa grew up in Devine, TX blessed to be part of both families; military and first responders. After being a certified pharmacy technician for almost 10 years she decided to make a career change and began her nursing career 13 years ago serving veterans in a CBOC (Community Based Outpatient Clinic). Throughout her nursing career she was fortunate enough to work in multiple specialties learning various skills along the way. She has always had a special place in her heart for veterans, first responders and those struggling with substance use disorder, so as she was welcomed home to Warriors Heart, she knew exactly where she would continue to fulfill her passion. 

Penny wasn’t born in Texas, but she got here as fast as she could. She came by way of Canada and Louisiana. She was raised in northern Ontario, then went to nursing school in Toronto where she got her diploma from George Brown College.

After working for a year on a bone marrow transplant unit, she decided she wanted to see something different. She secured a job in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, based on the fact that she didn’t know where it was – so different! – and that she had heard that Mardi Gras was a lot of fun. Both the job and Mardi Gras turned out to be great. She worked on an oncology/hematology unit then transferred to a burn unit.

Looking for something different again, she tried travel nursing and had a few adventures going to several hospitals. She ended up in a pediatric intensive care unit in San Antonio, which she loved and so decided to stay. It helped that she had also met her future husband, who was stationed in San Antonio with the Air Force.

They decided to make San Antonio their home and started their family, which eventually came to include two daughters and multiple pets. After not working – as if that is what at-home moms are not about! – for 16 years she decided that that it was time to pursue her love of nursing again and was welcomed home to Warrior’s Heart.

Cody is inspired by being around those who serve or have served our fine country, stateside and abroad! Cody served in the infantry with the 101st and was able to spend a year in Baghdad from 2005-2006. Upon getting out in 2007, Cody found it hard to be without the comradery and structure. In 2011, he returned to school and obtained his RN degree. Cody did this knowing he wanted to serve his fellow veterans and provide care. Cody has transitioned from the VA, in Kerrville Texas, and now am glad to be a part of Warriors Heart. Being able to serve in this capacity gives him a sense of purpose and ability to feel involved with those who are giving or have gave to the U.S.A.

Emily Morales was born in Evansville, Indiana, and moved to San Antonio, Texas at the age of 2. She is currently finishing up the core curriculum and plans to transfer to a nursing program to receive her Bachelor’s in Nursing.

Emily is the proud daughter of a U.S. Navy veteran and the proud granddaughter of a U.S. Army veteran.

The moment Mike graduated from Kimball High School in Royal Oak, Michigan (a suburb of Detroit), he barreled straight for the local Army recruiter with the intent of garnering some law enforcement experience in preparation for a career in the Michigan State Police. The Military Police Corps was a great gig but another path was in store for Mike. While policing soldiers on Ft. Bragg, he became familiar with several Special Forces NCO’s who exposed him to the alternative world of Army Special Operations and eventually convinced him it was the way to go. 2 years of training later, Mike was signing in to his first SFODA (A-Team), as a Special Forces Medical Sergeant (MOS 18-D). Fast forward 13 years and umpteen missions, both “green” and “black” later and he was accepted into the Army Physician Assistant Program. Graduating with honors and a 3.8 GPA, Mike was assigned to the 10th Mountain Division and served as an Infantry Battalion PA. Retiring in 2003, he began civilian life by working first in Traumatology, then Pharmaceutical Research, and finally, Women’s Health. Leaving medical practice for various personal reasons, Mike indulged his passion for music and joined the first of several touring bands as bassist and co-vocalist. Now it’s 2021 and another dream is being realized as he returns to his medical roots, helping fellow warriors return home at Warrior’s Heart.

Monica Condit was born in Kingsville, Texas, but was raised in San Antonio, TX. She currently resides with her husband in Fair Oaks Ranch and has two amazing children, Shelby and Jett. Since her husband is a pilot, she enjoys flying with her family, fishing, snow skiing, and reading. She started out her career in a family-owned property management company where she met her husband, Jeff. Then, in 2006, she suffered a horrible accident that crushed both her feet and fractured her back. After multiple reconstructive surgeries and rehabilitation, she knew she wanted to do something in the medical field. She earned her Associates of Applied Science degree in Medical Assisting from San Antonio Community College. Coming from a military family, she is honored to be able to work with and serve those who put their own lives on the line.

Chris Medina was born and adopted in Junction City, Kansas. With a father who served in the Army for 30 years, Chris attended a different school every three years but got to Texas as fast as she could where Chris graduated from Holmes High School. Chris is a single mom with 3 amazing children, Tabitha, Alex and Sydney and 1 granddaughter Chloe.Chris was a medical assistant for 20 years but went to LVN school and graduated in 2009 from Schreiner University. She chose psychiatric nursing immediately, which is where her heart lies and is still doing today. She holds a full-time position at Kerr County Mental Health and serves at Warriors Heart on Weekends. Choosing to join Warriors Heart was an easy decision for Chris.  Her son followed her father’s footsteps and is serving as well. Chris is honored to serve our veterans and first responders.

Chris has two rescue dogs, a Tegu and bird. Family time is essential and has been a part of the same church for 21 years. You can find Chris cooking, dancing or anything outdoors on her spare time.

Jamie was born in Uvalde, Texas and moved to San Antonio when she was 4. She graduated from Alamo Heights High School, soon got married and began pre nursing courses while starting a family. She has been a nurse for 27 years. Jamie has worked in many areas of nursing, from direct patient care, case management, administrative and medical compliance for a global wound care device company.  The love of her life is also a nurse/ army veteran at Warriors Heart. Together, over the last 19 years, the two of them have raised 7 children, 13 grandchildren and two very spoiled weenie dogs.

Theodore Popham (Teddy) was born in San Antonio, TX and is from Bandera, TX and graduated from Bandera High. Teddy graduated from St Phillip’s Collage and worked as an EMT for 4 years. He then graduated nursing school in1989. Teddy worked as a medic and was a nurse in the Army. In his career Teddy has worked in emergency rooms, ICU and as a home health nurse taking care of adults and pediatric clients. Teddy did 4 years in the Army and 2 years Army Reserve. In his spare time, Teddy enjoys hunting and working on the ranch raising cattle. He is passionate about assisting and giving medical care to those in need. Teddy is married to a nurse and between them they have 7 children and 17 grandchildren.

Megan Hay was born in Gloucester, VA and moved to Bandera, Texas at the age of ten. There she attended Bandera school’s 5th grade – 12th grade. Megan has always had interest in the medial field and became a Medical Assistant at the age of thirty-two. She was a single mom of four and was able to tackle single mom life, work full time and go to night school.  Since earning her certification, she has worked in multiple fields including Internal medicine, Pain management and OBGYN. Being able to learn from each practice has helped mold Megan into the MA she is today. Megans passion is being able to help others physically and emotionally.

Leticia Mendiola was born in San Antonio Texas and has lived there most of her life. She went to school in San Antonio and continues her education in SATX to this day. Leticia is now working on a degree in software development to hopefully someday create medical software that a medical professional can be proud of (one of actual medical caliber). Leticia has been in the medical field for 12 years now and it is one of her passions. Here at Warriors Heart she is the Team Lead Med Tech in the Medical department. In her spare time she enjoys running, weight lifting, and music to name a few things. A main passion she has is education. She loves learning and is always doing that. I work at Warriors Heart to learn and teach. I am passionate about military and first responders coming from a law enforcement family. I believe that even the strong need help and I am here for that.

Clinical Team

Dr. Rick Boone was born and raised in Gallipolis, OH, a rural community located in the southeastern Ohio River Valley.

He attended Ohio University in nearby Athens, OH before leaving for Tuscaloosa and the University of Alabama’s psychology graduate school. While there he learned of the military’s Health Professions Scholarship Program and, because he’d always been interested in the U.S. Navy, applied for and received a scholarship.

As an ABD psychologist he served on active duty for nearly 9 years before returning to graduate school, this time in California at Biola University, where he completed his Ph.D. in a program that specialized in the integration of psychological science and Judeo-Christian theology.

Following completion of his doctorate he returned to his hometown where he launched a behavioral health service for the Holzer Clinic. Additionally, he served as a liaison-psychologist to the Holzer Medical Center and consultant-psychologist to the Bariatric Treatment and Physical Rehabilitation Departments.

In the late 1990’s Dr. Boone transferred from the Naval to the Army Reserves. He later was deployed to Iraq on two occasions, 2003 and 2005, where he served as Officer-in-Charge of two Combat Operational Stress Control Teams.

Upon his return to the U.S. in late 2005 he voluntarily mobilized to Ft. Sam Houston’s Army Medical Department Center and School (AMEDDC&S). He remained at the AMEDDC&S for three years as an Instructor and Interim Branch Chief with the Mental Health Specialist Branch and as a Program Director (Provider Resiliency Program) within the Soldier and Family Support Branch.

In 2009 he was employed by the Department of Defense as a Social Scientist with the Human Terrain Teams in the Kandahar and Logar provinces of Afghanistan.

Later he was employed as an adjunct professor at Austin Community College and, obtaining his Texas psychologist’s license in 2015, was hired by Pathfinders Psychological and Psychiatric Services.

Dr. Boone has four children ranging in ages from 37 to 11. The older three live back east in NC and VA while his youngest resides in Austin, TX.

Dr. Boone is an avid reader and appreciator of music. Exercise, the arts, history, spirituality, travel in the U.S., and certain sports teams (e.g., Browns, Celtics, Red Sox, Crimson Tide, and the Midshipmen of the USNA) are among his passions.

In 2021 Rick married Rose Mary Espinosa Elias, a former TV and radio personality who is both a published poet and novelist in her native Mexico.

Corey Weber was raised in Geneseo, Il, a rural community west of Chicago near the Mississippi River.  A few days following graduation from high school he served in the US Marines.  Serving as a Marine; included infantry, security forces, K9 handling, and terrorist intelligence.  One of his memorable assignments was at 1^st Battalion 1^st Marines Headquarters where he was involved in placing combat and recently deployed Marines, at times when they struggled with returning from deployments.  It was during this duty that it became clear that there must be ways to reach people including soldiers impacted by tours and deployments.  He spent time at Camp Pendleton, Kings Bay Naval Submarine Station, Norfolk Naval Station, Fort Stewart, Fort Benning and Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm.  In light of raising a daughter, he decided to pursue a career outside of the military.  While attending college at Blackhawk State and Western Illinois University focusing on psychology and business majors he began working as a counselor at a residential addictions center and long term therapeutic community modality.  Later in the 1990s he transitioned from community based services to corrections care for both youth and adults as a program director and later regional director within a multitude of programs.  Following nearly a decade in leading correctional programs he continued his career as a regional director under the umbrella of Housing & Urban Development.  This population included serving people with disabilities and veteran mothers in supportive housing group homes and independent apartment living in San Antonio and North Carolina.

Corey has enjoyed a career filled with starting up several programs throughout the country and assisting in the growth of clients and career development of many intern staff.  Working within a diversity of people in substance use, mental health, homeless populations, and youth has been a blessing.

Corey has always been a supporter and catalyst to start up veteran based programs.  Developing both veterans groups and fatherhood programming connected his life both personally and for purpose in the many years as a counselor, director and regional influence of programs.

Corey now spends his time enjoying his family, grandchildren, and has always kept the enjoyment of the outdoors fishing, hunting, or exploring as his way of finding peace.  Finding Warriors Heart so close to home has been another blessing.

Vonnie Nealon is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and Certified Anger Resolution Counselor. She has a passion for working with those with the disease of chemical dependency, due in part to her own struggle with drugs and alcohol. She has been in recovery since 1987 and has worked as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor since 2002.
Vonnie initially began working in the chemical dependency field as a nurse for Serenity House of Abilene, while working as a nurse she returned to college to pursue her counselor’s license. Vonnie has taught chemical dependency classes for Cisco Junior College helping others to become counselors. Vonnie has worked in all types of chemical dependency treatment facilities ranging from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, to inpatient facilities including La Hacienda for five years as the relapse track counselor, Origins Recovery Center South Padre Island as the Director of Clinical Services. She has also worked in outpatient programs including Archway Recovery Center Intensive Outpatient Program where she served not only as a counselor but also as the Clinical Director.

Due to Vonnie’s family’s deep love for this country she is very familiar with the demands and stressors of military life as many of her family members are either serving or have served in the Armed Services including her husband who is retired Air Force and her son who served in the Army.

Denise Greenwood was born in Tomball, Texas a small suburb of Houston. She lived in Houston until 4th grade at which time she moved to Magnolia, Texas until graduating from Magnolia High School. Denise began her working career immediately after graduating from high school. She had a long corporate career in customer relations positions and met her husband, Gary while working at a personal injury law firm. At the time Denise and Gary married they had 3 children from Gary’s previous marriage. Jim and Scott were just graduating from high school and entering the Army. Arisa was 9 at the time and splitting her time between her mother’s home and Denise and Gary’s home. Three years later Denise and Gary had a little girl together, Kendra at which time Arisa began living full time with them. Jim, Scott, and Arisa are all married and Kendra has a long-time boyfriend. Denise now has 10 amazing grandchildren. After 13 years together, Gary was killed in a motorcycle accident. It was at that time that Denise decided to follow her dream of becoming a therapist. She enrolled in and graduated from Texas A&M-Commerce within 3 years and was immediately admitted to the Social Work Masters program at The University of Houston, Graduate College of Social Work. She continued her training and is now a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Since graduating Denise has been specialty trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She found her passion in working with substance and behavioral health at two behavioral health hospitals. She started as a therapist and continued her career as the Director of Outpatient Services to include two Active-Duty programs in San Antonio and Killeen. Having 2 stepsons in active duty as well as her father, sister and niece all having served our country Denise found working with the active-duty and veteran community as an opportunity to give back to those who have served. Denise enjoys county and western dancing and riding her Harley in the beautiful Hill Country. She enjoys traveling the world and spending time with her amazing family to include her children, grandchildren and the families of her 5 brothers and sisters.

Caroline moved to San Antonio, TX from FL in 2021. She has been married to her childhood sweetheart for over 31 years. Caroline was a non-traditional college student which is code for “took some detours along the way”.  The time she spent raising their children was the best investment of her life.  She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from the University of Alaska Fairbanks and Master of Social Work from Florida State University.  Caroline became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2014 in FL and in 2022 in TX.  Since graduating, she has obtained training in Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT); Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT); and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).  She plans to continue to develop and access additional specialized training opportunities.  The holistic and strengths-based approaches remain the foundation for her clinical interventions. Caroline is proud of her husband who is a US Army veteran who continues to be strong for their family.  She is also a proud momma of two terrific young men.  Their oldest son is a father, husband, and a Medic in the US Army.  They are blessed to have a daughter-in-law who supports their son and is a wonderful mother. Their youngest son is pursuing his education goals and always has a great big hug to share.

Caroline enjoys doing crafts, walking, music, and spending time with her family.  The joy of being a grandma and visiting with their two adorable grandchildren is immeasurable.  She is also an FSU and Bengals fan.  Her faith and family have helped her focus on what’s important in life especially during those difficult times.  Caroline wanted to share one of her favorite quotes, “You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think” by Christopher Robin.

Tammy was born and raised in Charleston, West Virginia and is the product of a proud coal-mining family. Tammy is also the granddaughter of a WWII Navy veteran and the niece of Air Force and Navy veterans. As a senior in high school Tammy watched the troops returning from Desert Storm, and while sitting in her grandmother’s living room, decided she too wanted to be a soldier. Tammy joined the Army on the delayed entry program and entered basic training at Ft. Jackson, SC upon graduation. Tammy then completed AIT at Ft. Sam Houston, TX and began her military service as a 91B. Tammy’s first duty station was Ft. Ord in Monterrey, CA at Silas B. Hayes Army Community Hospital, and her second duty station was Ft. Hood, TX where she served as a field medic with the 89 th MP Brigade. It was there she met her husband of almost 23 years. Upon leaving the military Tammy supported her husband throughout the rest of his 23-year military career. Tammy and her husband have 5 children ranging in ages 8-27, one of whom is also an Army veteran.

Tammy completed her schooling as a clinical mental health counselor while raising children and being involved in various military programs including the FRG in each of her husband’s companies. During graduate school Tammy was given an assignment to attend a group and critique the facilitator. Tammy chose to attend an NA meeting and immediately fell in love with each of the members as they told the story of how addiction had affected their lives. Tammy volunteers with Give an Hour and holds a weekly chemical dependency group at a veteran’s residential home in San Antonio. Tammy also works at the outpatient unit at San Antonio Behavioral Healthcare Hospital where she leads chemical dependency and trauma groups. Tammy was instrumental in developing the active duty, veteran, and first responder program at the hospital and is trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Written Exposure Therapy for PTSD, as well as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).

During her free time, Tammy can be found hanging out at the barn with her menagerie of animals including peacocks, pot-belly pigs, ducks, chickens, cats, dogs, and horses. Tammy and her husband have started a non-profit called New Tactics that provides equine therapy to veterans, active duty, and first responders. Her absolute favorite horse is a 17-year-old sorrel Missouri Fox Trotter named Shiloh. Tammy is also passionate about loud rock music and can be found cruising around in her Jeep Wrangler blaring her favorite metal band, Five Finger Death Punch.

Kelly is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in trauma and PTS symptoms and has a passion for working with Active Duty Military, Veterans and First Responders. Unintentionally, she found herself in prior counseling positions surround by crisis and a high uptempo environment: Child Protective Services, Pregnancy Crisis Centers, and Hospital ER Intake. Before Warriors Heart, she was the Lead Triage Coordinator therapist in a Psychiatric ER for five years. It was a highly stressful job working closely with first responders and licensed professionals to oversee a safe and thorough intake process for anyone who came through the doors of the ER (voluntary, involuntary detention, handcuffs, and gurney). She is used to staying on her toes in an adrenaline rush environment, all the while trying to be a calming presence for the military and civilians during times of distress. She later began working with Active Duty in the hospital as a substance abuse clinician and quickly realized that although addressing the presenting problem of substance was needed, a deeper passion began to emerge. The drive to work on the combat military unit. Kelly began to discover the core issues of depression, anxiety, fear, and Post Traumatic Stress symptoms that were not being addressed and began to train as a trauma therapist. She is trained in the leading trauma modalities of Prolonged Exposure (PE), Eye Movement Rapid Desensitization (EMDR), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). She also loves bringing energy during group therapy and enjoys leading military groups on combat trauma, military sexual trauma, PTSD symptoms, Complex Grief, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills, spiritual development, and substance education/process. Her treatment style is in line with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients discover and recognize root causes and core beliefs.

In addition to counseling, she has 13 years of marketing & communication experience for multiple nonprofit organizations and has business owner experience as a communications contractor. Kelly’s passions of communications and counseling have been two of her career goals over the last 20 years. She has 3 active children, who are the highlight of her life, and enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and running/long nature walks. A favorite self-care day would be a workout, time outside, an action movie, and pizza & chocolate.

Rachel Mickelsen is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NCC), and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). Rachel is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and is a Level 2 Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II). She has previously worked as a therapist in private practice and is passionate about continuing to improve her skill set as a therapist to better serve our Warriors. She has completed Advanced Relapse Prevention Specialist training, as well as training in Cognitive Processing Therapy.

As an Army brat, she spent much of her childhood in Germany but also lived in Hawaii, Virginia, and Texas. She and her husband met while attending high school and continue to pursue their “happily ever after” together. After their Air Force career, they decided to settle in the beautiful Texas Hill Country. They’ve called Boerne home since 2006 and have a sweet Goldendoodle named Bella and a ball python named Naomi.

In her spare time, Rachel enjoys crochet, listening to audiobooks, traveling, and spending time with her family.

Muriah was born in Butte, Montana however, her family relocated to Washington State where she grew up. Muriah’s father served in the Navy on active duty as a Logistics Specialist (LSCS) for twenty-eight years. In 2012 Muriah married her husband, David, whom is currently on his fourteenth year of active duty service as a Master at Arms (MA). David and Muriah have two children, Teigan (5) and Garrick (7mos). They also have a chi-weenie named, Trident.

Muriah completed her graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MS) from Capella University. She completed her practicum and internship in community mental health doing Therapeutic Day Treatment, Intensive In-Home Counseling, outpatient therapy and served as a supervisor/ clinical director of an Intensive In-Home Program. Muriah is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas and Virginia, as well as a Nationally Board-Certified Counselor (NBCC).

Although San Antonio is “home” where her family resides, Sylvia took a detour to Dallas for decades.  She took her father’s advice to “get an education” very seriously, even when she was unsure of what direction to go in life.  Her first degree was an associate’s degree in construction acquired while also going to school to become a journeyman electrician.  She was well into her degree for electrical engineering, and enjoying the perks of catching the sunrise atop of new construction buildings. The love for people, however, jolted her into the realization that she wanted a career in serving.  Sylvia abruptly quit all things electrical and joined a nursing program.  After earning her Associate’s degree in nursing, then a BSN in nursing, for decades she enjoyed an incredible nursing career specializing in oncology.  The only frustration was not being able to spend enough quality (to her satisfaction) one on one time with those under her care. The rapid work pace would not allow it.  She witnessed the toll that the high stress, and fast pace, took on medical professionals as well as first responders around her.  Back to school she went to acquire a Masters in Community Counseling with the plan to give time to those in need.  She jumped straight into working with a population who experienced some of the worst type’s trauma and abuse.  Although incredibly rewarding, Sylvia always had a heart for the military and first responder population. When she punched out of Dallas, she knew it would happen when she returned home.  She just had no idea how seamlessly it would occur.

Tim Pharo is an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience working in numerous areas of mental health. Tim specializes in recovery work with first responders and the military population, but enjoys working with all different types of people and across all unique cultures. Tim is also a student of martial arts particularly BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-jitsu) and is able to use this discipline in working with patients suffering from addictions, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and personal development. Tim is also a Diplomate in Viktor Frankl’s Logotherapy, which helps clients to find meaning and purpose even through some of life’s most difficult circumstances. Tim has also served in the U.S. Army. When Tim is not at work he enjoys, training, barbecuing anything, playing with his family to include his wife 3 children and 2 dogs, going to church, taking trips, and swing a kettlebell. Tim also likes the idea of rolling and trying to break or choke out his boss, Josh Lannon.

Stacia is a licensed professional counselor supervisor with more than thirty-five years in the mental health and substance abuse industry. She was born in Dallas, Texas and lived in both East Texas and a small suburb of Dallas while she was growing up. After completing her undergraduate program in theology and biblical studies she worked with youth groups in churches in both California and the Dallas area and soon after earned her Master of Science degree in counseling from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Stacia is the definition of the “Wounded Healer” and her greatest passion is facilitating the healing process for those struggling with PTSD, chronic grief and other traumas as well as helping other clinicians be their absolute best for their clients. In addition to a long history of working in substance abuse residential treatment settings and acute care psychiatric hospitals, Stacia has worked in both the managed care environment and for one of the largest insurance companies in our country. These experiences on “both sides of the fence” have equipped her with a 360-degree view of health care from intervention to treatment and reimbursement.

Stacia was raised by a Marine and an RN – so WHEN she makes her bed (which is rare) it will pass inspection with perfect hospital corners. She lives with her husband, David, and their two rescue dogs, Maudie, and Aggie. They have four adult children and are “Sugar” and “G-Daddy” to the smartest, funniest, and coolest granddaughter and grandson who are their greatest joys.
Her favorite thing to do is love people.

Adriana Ruiz is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (under supervision of MaryAnn Rocha). Born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley, she is passionate about supporting First Responders, Veterans, and Military service members by offering them a safe space to share their experiences.
Adriana earned her Bachelor degree in Criminal Justice from the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas. After completing her degree, she went back to the Valley and went on to work for Hidalgo Police Department as a 911 Telecommunicator for three years. She is certified and still holds her license by the Texas Commission On Law Enforcement (TCOLE) as a telecommunications operator. During her time at Hidalgo Police Department, she enrolled at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley to earn her Master’s degree in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling. Her prior experience in law enforcement gives her a strong appreciation and understanding about the first responder and military culture and challenges they face.
Adriana strives to support First Responders, Veterans, and Active Military service members by helping them focus on prioritizing their mental health, helping them process experiences, promote connection, and build resilience. Adriana is committed to spreading mental health awareness within the First Responder and Military field by empowering the individuals.

Gary is a LCDC and graduate student at Texas A and M, San Antonio. Gary earned AAS in Human Services/ Addiction Counseling; AA in Social Work from San Antonio College; BAAS degree with a concentration in criminology. Currently, as a graduate student, Gary is on track to earn his Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health in the summer of 2023. Gary served in the U.S. Army as Infantry man/ cavalry and moved up the ranks as NCO at the time of discharge. Started career in counseling with the Texas Youth Commission for adjudicated youth. Worked private sector and co-owned business that counseled clients leaving prison, homeless and disabled. Gary has always been passionate about helping military personnel and when the opportunity to work at Warriors Heart came, Gary answered the call. He is passionate about helping other warriors with their presenting problems and improving their quality of life.

Isela Vilchis is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor Intern in Texas with a Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Professional Development both from the Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie, TX. And a Licensed Minister with the Assemblies of God Church in 2015.

Carmen is committed to facilitating mental, emotional, relational, spiritual, and professional change for those seeking healing, health, and growth in areas of their lives. Her passion is to provide evidence-based clinical services in the community she lives. She has years of experience helping individuals with behavioral difficulties; and the assessment and treatment of abnormal behavior, trauma, abuse and human trafficking.

She has collaborated with TV shows in Univison 41, San Antonio, TX covering topics such as suicide, addictions, parenting, youth, etc. In her 2019 Radio Show “Anhelos del Alma” aired from Miami, she shared various topics of psychology and spirituality. She has participated in panels against domestic violence, has facilitated self-help groups, workshops and retreats in various cities.

Carmen has training in Rapid Resolution Therapy that works to address and clear the ongoing effects of anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, night-terrors, grief, heartbreak, betrayal, childhood abuse, sexual violence, shame, guilt, rage, anger, jealousy, and combat or first responder PTSD. Trained in Functional Family Therapy providing treatment to families of juveniles in probation or parole with Substance Abuse and Behavioral Problems. Carmen is a certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator, a proven assessment to foster resilient relationships and marriages.

Carmen facilitates Professional and Personal Development workshops and retreats that help individuals increase their Emotional Intelligence skills. She provided Clinical, Crisis Intervention and Facilitated support groups to Unaccompanied Alien Children from Central America under the care of the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) / Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in Homestead, FL. She developed and established a Family Engagement Program for two school districts in the San Antonio area. Provided the Highly Capable Kids Parenting Program based on the 40 developmental assets from the Research Institute for 17 schools. Provided psychoeducation to correct behavior using the Conscious Discipline Program to PreK students and their parents. Carmen has provided through the Bexar County Probation Center, Aggression Replacement Training, incorporating the Sanctuary Model and clinical case management to the youth and their families in the San Antonio and surrounding areas. Carmen has experience working with Spanish speaking families of first offenders in different programs in Tarrant County. Additionally, she has served as a facilitator in the Hand in Hand Program and assisted in the Substance Abuse Adult Program in Tarrant County.

Carmen enjoys traveling, learning new things, meeting people, teaching other about the Jewishness of Jesus and enjoys Davidic dancing.

Ivory was so excited about her most recent position as one of the clinicians/LCDC at Warriors Heart.  She made the life changing decision to return to school in 2014 and completed her Associate of Applied Science degree in Human Services: Addiction Counseling in 2016.  Considering, she was a late bloomer, had to acquire some very basic computer skills, maintain employment, her sobriety and it continues to be one of the best decisions of her life.

Bobby Stelzer was born in 1977 in Fort Seal, OK. After he was born his family moved around a lot. Bobby spent most of his raising between Florida, Wyoming, and Arizona. He graduated high school in Pima, AZ in 1996. Bobby enlisted in the Navy in December of 1996, where he completed boot camp and joined his first navy Seabee battalion in Gulfport, MS. Bobby has been deployed in multiple countries through out the world.  He was deployed to Iraq (x2) and Afghanistan (x2). Bobby ended his military career in 2013. Throughout his career with the military, he earned an associates degree in drafting and design and business management.  He also owned and operated his own construction estimating company in AZ and TX.  He then returned to school and completed his master’s degree in psychology. While earning his degree he worked in the security field and started his career as a counselor in 2014 at the Joe Ney treatment facility in Hondo, TX until the unit was closed. He then transferred to the Kyle, TX treatment facility. Bobby has been married for 15 years and has two wonderful kids that are special needs and he loves spending time with them when not working.  He can tell you these two kids are smart and very motivated to learn whatever they can.  Bobby enjoys taking his kids hunting, hiking, and teaching them new skills such as welding and outdoor activities.

Michele Hastings is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and a certified Alcohol Drug Counselor. She has worked in the field of substance use for more than twenty years. Her wide array of experience over the years has included Detox, Outpatient and Residential Treatment facilities; she has worked with children, adolescents, adults and families.

Michele was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to a mother who was an Air Force veteran and dad that was active-duty Army. Of all the places she has lived over the years, she always ended up back in Texas and eventually made Texas home. She now lives in the Hill Country and enjoys time with her kids, grandkids and dogs.

Megan was born and raised in central Florida, joined the Army as a Flight Operations Specialist and served on active duty and then transferred to the Texas Army National Guard. She is a combat Veteran who has a passion for fellow Warriors and their healing from PTSD and Addiction. Megan is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor as well as Licensed Professional Counselor Associat

Jamie was born on November 1, 1972 to parents from a very poor upbringing in southeast Texas. They had dreams of building more for their family and so her dad joined the Air Force. Her father went to basic training a week before she was born, and retired a week after she turned 20 years old. She lived all of her life on military bases. She is the middle child of 5, a mother of two ages 32 my daughter and 27 my son, and a Nana to my Sweet Vivvie! She enjoys cooking, fun with family, binge watching good shows, Law and Order SVU, a good movie night snuggled on the couch with a cup of hot tea, she likes to sing (she thought she was going to be famous singer one day…lol), she loves to laugh and is filled with empathy for others, she likes to say she is an empath because of how she feels the energy of others. She is funny once she gets comfortable with you, she is strong, independent, and intentional when it comes to loving family and counseling, and she is an overcomer. She believes that no one wants to be addicted to drugs or alcohol and that having a spiritual connection will keep you sober and allow you to build the life that you want, a life of success beyond our mislead decisions to indulge in drugs and alcohol. Jamie was a crack addict for over 12 years, she tried many attempts at getting sober, however, they all failed. Even after suffering a heart attack in March 2009, as she was smoking crack… Jamie continued in that way of life for one more year. She remembers going to her spiritual mother, crying out about how she spent all the income tax monies again on drugs. Her spiritual mother was always able to love her and lead her back to her right mind in love. July 4, 2010 it happened to her… her spiritual awakening. She was sitting at home, doing the usual 4th of July traditions with the kids, they always ordered pizza and played music and made the night really fun. Jamie would take breaks to hide out to smoke crack. Well, this one night as she was smoking, she had an out of body experience where she was seeing what God saw… He saw his daughter smoking crack and she was immediately changed in that moment, embarrassed, remorseful and ashamed…repented and ready to get sober. She began to throw all her drugs over the balcony, all the crackpipes she could find hidden, all over the balcony to disappear into the grassy area over the fence. It was July 5, 2010 early morning when she was set free, her God had taken away the cravings, the night dreams, and the taste overall for the drug. At this time, Jamie had been on the run for almost three years. In October 2010, she made the decision to turn herself into Bexar County. Her Pastor, Father, and her children all went with her down to the Sheriff’s department, they prayed in the parking lot and then she walked in and told them her name. That was the beginning of newness for her!!  She was sent to SATF (treatment center for offenders in Bexar County), and that is where her dream to be a counselor came from. She had such an amazing counselor who she felt actually saw her, and saw potential in her. This counselor inspired her to want to do for others what was done for her. The hole was finally filled and she was beginning to heal from the inside out. After leaving SATF, she went on to San Antonio College to study drug counseling in 2012. She graduated in May 2016; she earned her Associates of Applied Science majoring in Alcohol and Drug Counseling. She began her counseling internship at Joe Nye Unit in Hondo, she worked under the learned how prison system and treatment work together to improve offenders return to society. She moved on to work with harm reduction clients who were addicted to opioids for the next 6 years. Understanding and working through the MAT process with clients was a challenge, that is where she saw first-hand patient resistance to treatment, and where she began to understand and see first-hand how the medications helped clients to overcome their addictions and began to build better lives for themselves. She has had an opportunity to work with mothers and babies who experienced Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome. She then moved on to work with Veterans at Sunrise Rehab and Recovery briefly and before coming to Warriors Heart, she was lead counselor over the Outpatient Community Substance Abuse program at the Center for Health Care Services. During her time at CHCS, she published her first book about her journey through addiction/recovery and lessons/blessings learned along the way. It is her tribute to encourage the addict overcoming addiction, ones thinking about treatment and to help families understand where they are and what recovery looks like for the addict, so in all of her struggles her God allowed her to add published author to her accomplishments. She feels blessed!!! Today, she is proudly employed at Warrior’s Heart, she considers this an incredible opportunity to work alongside such purpose filled people and she is looking forward to a rewarding, challenging opportunity to serve at Warriors Heart!!

Tosha is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern who was born in Houston, Texas. As a child she moved every 3-4 years due to her father’s job with a major tool company. Tosha went to elementary school in Houston, Middle School in San Antonio, and Edmond, OK. Her high school years were spent in Novato, CA. After all that moving joining the Army was a no brainer. Tosha enlisted in 1994 as an Intelligence Analyst (MASINT, ELINT, MINT, and HUMINT). She was stationed at Camp Humphrey’s Korea, Aberdeen Proving Grounds, MD and Ft. Meade, MD. Her last assignment was working at the National Security Agency (NSA). Tosha experience non-combat trauma during her almost 10 years of service.
After serving her country she worked at a major big box home improvement store starting as a kitchen designer and worked her way up the ranks to key-carrying manager. Tosha decided to return to school and earned her Bachelor of Science from Texas A&M San Antonio majoring in Criminology and Psychology.
After graduating Tosha began her career at a major insurance and banking institution that supports the military community. Her first position was in mortgage originations. She then moved to a sales team and soon was promoted to manager. As a manager she led teams through major life events and even addiction. The leadership role solidified Tosha’s desire to become a counselor. Tosha left the organization and began her journey of helping others heal from addiction. She began the LCDC-I journey as a simple tech at a private recovery center until she was able to obtain her Chemical Dependency Intern License. After receiving her license Tosha moved to Dominguez State Jail where she supported offenders by counseling them one on one as well as providing group education. Tosha worked parttime at a mental health and addiction facility supporting service members and civilians. This facility allowed Tosha to work with the co-occurring population. Tosha’s next position was with Bexar County Adult Probation at an In-Patient Facility working with the co-occurring offender population.
Tosha’s journey to Warrior’s Heart has been a long one but she knows it was worth the wait. Tosha comes from a family of service members. She has 2 grandfathers who served, one was a “flyboy” in WWII. Flying the B29 “Widow Maker” on several combat missions and the other served in the Navy. Tosha has several cousins and an aunt who have also served.
Tosha enjoys spending time with her family whenever possible. She has just become an empty nester after the last of her 3 children moved out. Tosha has 2 sons (25 and 23) one lives in Houston, the other in San Antonio and a daughter (20) who lives in Maryland. One of Tosha’s sons has been accepted into the San Antonio Police department, the other is a tattoo artist. The youngest of the 3 works in customer service for a major financial institution.
Tosha loves to refinish furniture in her spare time. She also loves hanging out with her fur baby’s. Layla is a pit mix and Pebbles is a pit weenie mix.

Danyelle Keyes grew up in the High Desert of Southern California. Upon graduating from high school in Apple Valley, she departed for the U.S. Navy and served 6 honorable years as an Informations Systems Technician. Danyelle was stationed on the USS Carl Vinson and deployed between 2014 to 2015 on the USS Comstock. She moved back to Apple Valley where she began going to school to become a special needs teacher and worked as a substitute.

In her spare time, Danyelle enjoys going on long hikes with her dog, Gidget, paddle boarding, snowboarding, exploring new places outdoors, and reading books.
She is passionate about helping others, connecting with nature, and expanding her knowledge as much as possible.
Danyelle is beyond excited and grateful to be a part of the Warriors Heart team!

Blair Tredway grew up in San Angelo, Texas, a growing West Texas town. She was the oldest of four growing up with my mother and step-father. She graduated from San Angelo Central High School in 2001 where she was highly active in the TX-936 chapter of the Air Force JROTC program, attaining rank of Major. She then attended Howard College in 2002 and 2004 receiving her CNA and Phlebotomy Certifications. In 2003 she became a proud mother of a daughter, Bralynn, in 2006 the proud mother of another daughter Evelynn and in 2008 the proud mother of her son Rice Jr., who has since passed on. She spent many years as an Army Wife moving to multiple posts where she was active in the FRG. After getting separated from her first husband, Blair began her battle with alcoholism, and spiraled down until 2016. There have been a few setbacks, but Blair is happy to say she is sober and enjoying the sober life. In 2018 Blair met her best friend, and moved to Pipe Creek, and in March 2019 became the step-mother of two handsome boys, Wesley Tredway and Bradley Tredway and the wife to one amazing man, Steven Tredway (whom she says saved her life by giving her a new one). Blair and Steven live honest, drug and alcohol free lives, and together keep each other laughing and enjoying one day at a time as a sober and clean couple and parents.

When Blair heard about Warrior’s Heart she knew that this was exactly where she needed to be! Having battled her own problems with alcoholism and PTSD, she believes that giving back to those in recovery and being there to help aid in the recovery of other warriors is truly her calling. Blair looks forward to an exciting future and journey with her sobriety, recovery, amazing home life and new family here at Warrior’s Heart.

Tina moved from Indiana to Texas in 1986 as a child. She graduated from Smithson Valley High School in 1992 and had her first child in October that year. She has three beautiful daughters that have brought her three beautiful granddaughters so far. She has an extensive background in customer service from working in a grocery store to gas stations and a hotel. She enjoys spending as much time as she can with her granddaughters in her spare time as well as reading, fishing and spending time with friends and family. Her father is a Vietnam vet and her little brother was an emergency first responder/volunteer firefighter.

Yvonne Garcia was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, and is a First Responder and Licensed Professional Counselor. She has a bachelor’s degree in English and History from St. Mary’s University and taught middle school Reading/English before changing careers. Yvonne has worked as a firefighter/paramedic with the San Antonio Fire Dept. since 1997. In 2013 she earned her master’s degree in Community Counseling from the University of Texas at San Antonio and focuses on Trauma, Stress, and Resiliency. She is trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy, Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), Peer Support, Crisis Intervention, Trauma, and Grief. She has had a private practice since 2017.

Kevin is the son of a soldier in the British Army. Routine and a sense of duty were what kept my family together. His early life was spent in the UK, Germany, and the Far East.
After many careers including Hotel Management, waiting on table, cooking, and being a librarian Kevin immigrated to the United States and married a Texas girl.
After going through treatment Kevin found his vocation in counseling both as a general counselor and as a Chemical Dependency Counselor. Kevin lives with his retired partner in Kerrville where they both look after lots of stray cats.
Kevin enjoys really old and low-budget science fiction movies and listening to podcasts on spiritual themes.

Cee comes from a long line of family members who have served in the Marines, Army, Navy, Airforce, Coast Guard and Police Force. Her connection and passion for the warrior community, has been one that has developed over the last 25 years stemming from her time in Southern California as a motivational speaker at a women’s prison. This is where Cee saw firsthand the impact of alcohol and drugs upon individuals, families and communities.

Since then, as licensed Marriage/Family and Chemical Dependency Therapist, Cee has had the honor of working with active duty, vets, and first responders in a variety of settings. In addition, in her doctorate program, Cee has received training in Somatic Depth Psychology and Philosophy, which has resulted in a greater understanding of the intensive, yet mostly subconscious, mind/body connection.

Jennifer is a realist.  She’s a listener.  She walks the talk. Jennifer calls it how she sees it without judgement.  She believes every person has the capacity to achieve their version of success.  Jennifer believes there’s more than one way to solve a problem.  She accepts that life happens.

Let’s figure out how to deal with it in healthy ways.

Her super-power is seeing the light despite all the darkness.

Nathan was born and raised in the Sacramento area of California to a father working as a deputy sheriff and mother working with the local farm bureau. Nathan currently resides in San Antonio and is happily married with a growing family. Nathan’s family consists of several grandparents that served in the military during WWII and Vietnam in the Army and Navy respectfully. In middle school, Nathan remembers vividly when the Twin Towers fell in NY, and that became a future catalyst for joining the military. During his summer breaks in high school, Nathan would spend his time working at Camp Rock’n U, a summer camp for foster and underprivileged kids. Nathan joined the Army on the Delayed Entry Program and entered basic training at Ft. Sill, OK. Upon graduating, Nathan did not need to travel far to attend Advanced Individual Training which happened to be across the train tracks on Ft. Sill. After 6 weeks, Nathan completed AIT as a Forward Observer (13F) at the top of his class and earned the title “Master Blaster” and a promotion. Nathan’s first and last duty station in the active component was Ft. Stewart, GA with the 3rd Infantry Division. There he was assigned to several units to include: the 1st Battalion, 76th Field Artillery Regiment; 3rd Battalion 15th Infantry Regiment; and the 1st Battalion 9th Field Artillery Regiment. Nathan toured on two deployments: one to Wardak, Afghanistan in 2013; and another to Djibouti, Africa in 2016. After serving 6 years of active duty, Nathan enlisted into the Army Reserves as an Information Technology Specialist (25B) Instructor to pursue a career in IT as a civilian and was stationed in Sacramento, CA with the 2nd Battalion, 104th Signal Regiment. Since then, Nathan has changed his MOS to Behavioral Health Specialist (68X) where he continues to serve after 12 years in the 340th Medical Detachment at Camp Bullis in San Antonio.
Nathan moved from California to Texas with his wife in 2019 where he continued his educational journey at University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), earning his bachelor’s degree in psychology cum laude. Nathan has continued his higher education with a pursuit of a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Texas A&M University – San Antonio with plans to graduate in Fall 2023. After interning a semester at Warriors Heart, Nathan immediately found his calling and in a short time, obtained his LCDC-I and began working here at Warriors Heart. Nathan has future plans to gain further licensure as an LPC once his master’s degree is completed.
During his free time, Nathan can be seen taking the pitch to play rugby for the local San Antonio men’s rugby club. Nathan has been playing rugby for close to 20 years, earning state and national honors through that time. If Nathan isn’t on the pitch, he is spending time with his family going on adventures around the world. Nathan has a passion for video games and is an advent fan of the biggest roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons, where he not only plays as a character but serves as a Dungeon Master (DM) creating fantasy worlds for his friends and family.

Admissions Team

Michael R O’Dell was born and raised in the heart of the hill country. During his youth Michael stayed outside. He loved playing baseball with his brothers and skateboarding with his friends. At the age of 19 Michael left his family and the hill country behind to become a United States Marine. During his service to our country Michael was stationed in Hawaii and attached to 3rd battalion 3rd Marine AKA Americas Battalion. His unit quickly deployed and continuously rotated in and out of theater.

CPL O’Dell was a part of and involved with multiple missions which were mostly executed at night. Training the Iraqi Army as well as maintaining a high level of readiness in the battalion’s motor pool. CPL O’Dell was recognized for promotion and multiple awards for his performance and dedication to the corps and was honorably discharged from service in November of 2010.

Shortly after Michael’s return home to the Texas hill country, the struggle with addiction and PTSD began to take control of his life. As a Marine Michael, would refuse to admit to his problems. Michael continued to suffer from his addiction until it landed him in prison.
Michael has been sober since March 2016 and has dedicated himself to helping the warrior class make the crucial decision to choose life and finally return home.

Ingrid Lacy was born in Virginia and graduated from Old Dominion University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. In the last 10 years she found her calling in human services while in college and moving over the mid-west. She has worked a variety of jobs from 911 dispatching, community mental health, and running services at the county homeless shelter. Ingrid enjoys hiking, camping, backpacking and kayaking in her down time and is glad to call the hill country home.

Cathy grew up in a military family, mostly living at Ft Campbell and Ft Knox. Her family moved to Florida her freshman year of high school. Cathy served 3.5 years in the Air Force. She separated due to a high-risk pregnancy. After her daughter was born, she was a stay home mom for 10 years. Cathy became a Police Officer in 1999, she served 20 years. Cathy is currently working towards completion of her degree in Psychology.

During Cathy’s freshman year of high school, she became addicted to alcohol and drugs. She credits her mother and daughter for her sobriety. She has been drug free for 35 years and sober for 20 years. Cathy has seen many friends and family die from their addictions. Cathy works at educating families who have loved ones with addiction, in the hopes they will not turn their backs on them. Cathy truly believes if not for her mother and daughter she would not be with us today.

R.A. “Tony” Graham was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma but has deep Texas roots. Starting at the age of 2 through the age of 17 Tony worked on horseback in sweltering heat with his grandfather in Hebbronville, Tx at the Jones Alta Vista Ranch. Tony attended Richard King High School in Corpus Christi prior to graduation in 1997 he was involved in NJROTC. 

In 1999 He enlisted in the Army and was stationed at the 101st Airborne Ft. Campbell, Ky. He excelled there earning his Air Assault/Airbourne wings. He deployed to Kosovo in 2000 and Afghanistan 2001.

Tony was honorably discharged in 2002 and relocated back to Corpus Christi, Tx. Tony went to work for the Beach 96.5 as an on-air. During that time in 2002, Tony met his wife Jamie while she was student teaching at TAMUCC.

In 2003, Tony and Jamie were married then moved to the Houston area (Deer Park) in 2005. Tony went on to work various jobs such as security, vet tech until he found his calling as a Firefighter.

In 2008 Tony was diagnosed with Pulmonary Hypertension, and eventually he injured his back. Having multiple back surgeries, including a spinal fusion. In 2009 Tony began to work for Channelview ISD where he started as ASD paraprofessional and then a In School Suspension, then a behavioral coach (PASS). During this time, he pursued is degree from Lamar University with a bachelor’s degree in Applied Arts and Science (BASS) with a 3.14 GPA. Tony is currently working on getting his master’s degree from Sam Houston State.

In 2017 Tony and Jamie welcomed their daughter Karis into the world. In 2020, they moved from Houston back to the hill country, where Jamie became a teacher for Kerrville ISD and Tony a teacher for a school district outside of Ingram, Tx. In December 2020, Tony was involved in a car crash where he ultimately needed additional back surgeries. During one of the surgeries, it was inadvertently infected with MRSA. After 3 debridement’s and during the 4th debridement due to the heavy dose of antibiotics causing him to go into acute renal failure, causing him to go through dialysis.

In 2022, Tony decided to continue serve others and came to work at Warriors Heart. Where he happiest being among fellow soldier and first responders. Helping people has always been in Tony’s nature. He looks forwards to utilizing his life experiences while helping others. Welcome Home.

Shayne is a hometown girl, raised right here in Bandera, Tx.  Upon graduation she attended Hill Jr. College on a rodeo scholarship and competed on the school’s rodeo team.  She was also a cheerleader at Hill. Bause of the rodeo team she was able to travel all over Texas and parts of Louisiana.  After Junior College was complete, she transferred to Tarleton State University and graduated with a BS in Ag.  Several years later she moved back to Bandera, married her high school sweetheart and started her family.  She has 3 children, twin boys and a daughter.  One of her sons is a Firefighter, her other son is a pilot and her daughter is pursuing a career in Ag Business.

Her grandfather served in WW II with the United States Navy and she has several extended family members who bravely served our country.  She was raised with a strong sense of patriotism and has always been passionate about the men and women in uniform who proudly serve our country and our communities.  Now that her kids are grown, she is excited to be able to help warriors choose life over addiction and PTS.

Astrid was born and raised in Bavaria, Germany and discovered her love for medicine and languages early in life. After a foray into medical school, she decided that she wanted to pursue her passion for languages, instead. Living in a military community, she used her degree in languages to get a position as a translator at the Provost Marshal Office for the US Army and later as a patient liaison specialist, where she was able to help the servicemembers and their families navigate the unfamiliar territory of a foreign healthcare system. She met her husband during that time and the family was eventually transferred back to the US until his retirement from the military. Aside from raising three sons, Astrid worked in various fields, from the construction business to international engagement at the Chamber of Commerce to Localization work in the IT sector. Her life took her all over the country and she has finally settled in Texas, where she found Warriors Heart in her search for a meaningful occupation. In a way, she feels that working for Warriors Heart is as much of a homecoming for her as it is for our warriors.

Ella came from a family of addicts and grew up in CPS due to that, she moved all around Texas until she finally got a couple of years in the same high school and graduated Klien Oak High. While in her senior year she found out she was pregnant with her daughter and had to grow up fast. She went to college then ended up in an oilfield town and worked in the oilfield for many years. Ella soon found Warriors Heart and was amazed at what they do for our brave men and women of the Military and First responders. She quickly hired on and instantly felt at home! Ella decided to leave to pursue a career that she got her degree in and instantly regretted it. After working three years as a property manager, Warriors Heart was calling her back home! Warriors Heart holds a special place in her heart so of course she returned!

She can’t wait to welcome you home as well!

Sean Eugene Flynn was born in Miami Beach, Florida.  Sean was raised in Miami and graduated from Monsignor Edward Pace High School in Opa Locka, Florida. Sean was a collegiate athlete at the University of West Florida in Pensacola, Florida where he completed his undergraduate studies in Business Finance prior to attending Miami’s Barry University where he received a Master’s Degree in Business Administration within the first 2 years of his service as a Law Enforcement Officer beginning in 2000.  Sean began his Career as a Law Enforcement Officer with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and served in various capacities including supervisory assignments as a Sergeant at PBSO.  Sean also served as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff with the Glades County Sheriff’s Office prior to serving as a Police Officer for the Palm Beach County School District’s Police Department. Sean’s father Eugene served as a Federal Agent for 37 years and his mother Eileen served 31 years as a Nurse while raising 6 children who have all served or pursued careers as First Responders and Public Servants in South Florida.  Service to the United States and Service as First Responders within the communities that they live in has always been in Sean’s families DNA.

Dennie began life in a small town in Southeastern Kansas. During his early years he knew that his future was to be in the military or law enforcement, but little did he know that he would be involved in both. Entering the US Army in 1971, Dennie attended basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO. Overseas assignments included Vicenca, Italy; Frankfurt, Germany (3d Armd Div); Stuttgart, Germany (2d Spt Cmd) and South Korea (2d Inf Div). CONUS assignments included 1st Inf. Div (Ft Riley, KS); Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD and Ft. McClellan, AL (US Army MP Center & School).

During his assignment as a MP at Aberdeen PG, Dennie attended and graduated from the Baltimore MD. Police Academy S.W.A.T. course. During future assignments he would serve as SRT (SWAT) Commander at Aberdeen Proving Ground as well as in South Korea during the 1988 Olympics where his teams provided personal security details for VIP’s attending the Games. Dennie’s final military assignment was at Ft McClellan AL where he served as MP Instructor and Doctrine Writer for the US Army MP Corps. After retirement in 1971, Dennie worked as a Police Officer and Deputy Sheriff in Alabama and Missouri. Dennie began his second career as an armed security contractor with assignments in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq (x2) and finished his contracting life with assignment to Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands (South Pacific).

Dennie lives with his wife Tami on an 800-acre ranch just outside Bandera, TX along with their assortment of “furry kids”. Hobbies include amateur radio, fly fishing, or simply sitting on his patio smoking a quality cigar or his pipe, sipping a cold drink and appreciating a sunset over his tiny part of The Republic of Texas.

William’s father is a veteran. His sister was an addict and it eventually contributed to her early passing. His brother, who is also a veteran, still struggles with addiction. William has been involved in the criminal justice system his entire adult life from both putting people in prison and then keeping them inside the walls.

Operations Team

Born in Germany, Zachary made it to Texas as quickly as possible! His Father Rob Poteat got stationed in DelRio, TX on Laughlin AFB. There Zachary grew up on true Mexican culture food and noticed how the food always brought everyone together! Zachary went from the border of Texas to the Hill Country, where Schreiner University was home to him while he worked on his B.A Sports Management/ B.S Kinesiology. After growing up a bit Zachary found himself in Boerne, TX. There he would meet the love of his life!

Ashley & Zachary met in a local Restaurant where they both worked. Zachary & Ashley then moved up to Austin and the Culinary world began. He got the real taste of the streets in Austin working for a couple top Food Trucks. After that he spent his time in a butcher shop, starting with deliveries then learning all his cuts and processing deer. Continuing, he dabbled a bit in the Corporate cooking world with Whole Foods Market & Central Market. Furthermore, Zachary found a couple well named Chefs in established restaurants to work under and learn from to increase his skills as a Chef.

Zachary found himself back in San Antonio, TX after Ashley started Nursing school. Zachary ended up finding a job back in the Hill Country! He was named Executive Chef and shortly after was asked to fill the General Manager role. During his time here, Zachary made many new friends and started focusing on his dreams and goals.
He recently got Married to Ashley in May of 2018 and they are happily living in Boerne, TX.

Lealon Freeman was born in Eldorado, TX and grew up in Medina, TX. He graduated from Bandera High School in 1987. Lealon joined the US Army in 1989 and retired in 2010 after 3 OIF deployments and 1 OEF. Lealon’s hobbies are fishing, and rockhounding. He has 3 adult children and 2 grandchildren. If he’s passionate about anything it’s his grandchildren.

I had been told that Warriors Heart was a great place to work, and it is. Plus, the Warriors Heart mission of helping veterans and first responders is something I believe in.

Todd was born and raised in Nebraska. Retired from U.S. Coast Guard after 20 years of active duty as a Chief Marine Science Technician, doing environmental response to hazardous substances and remediation of coastal zones. Enjoys hiking, camping, and competing in endurance races.

Rob Barry was born and raised in Hartford, CT. He relocated to Bandera, TX as his future retirement destination. Rob is a maintenance technician responsible for maintaining company infrastructure and property for the best client experience. Rob is born problem solver. He enjoys the daily challenges that arise and his ability to resolve these issues. Rob has a diversified background in construction and maintenance of building mechanical systems. Rob has B. S. in Construction Management from Central Connecticut University. Rob currently resides in Bandera, TX with his wife Mercedes. In his spare time he enjoys ballroom dancing, aviation and flight simulation.

Rob Landsrud was born & raised in Minnesota.  It was from there he joined the US Navy.  Rob is now the Facilities Manager at Warriors Heart.  It is his job to ensure that Warriors Heart remains a safe and comfortable location for our Warriors to be.  Rob and his team work closely with Safety and Housekeeping every day to accomplish this mission.

Lisa moved to Bandera, Texas from Wisconsin in 1995. One of Lisa’s passions has been involved with fund raising for over 25 years. In 2013 she co-founded the Longhorn Charity Events. They began with the Longhorn Golf Tournament benefiting Meals on Wheels, and hopes to expand assisting additional charitable companies in the area.

In 2010 she started working at the Purple Sage Ranch Resort and Conference Center, which is now the home of Warriors Heart! Lisa maintains a very high standard of cleanliness and environment of care as her main priority, but also assists in customer service when needed.

Lisa truly enjoys working with the team here at Warriors Heart. Some she has known for years and others she has gotten to known, but she can honestly say we are all family.

Lisa has 3 amazing daughters. She was blessed with her first grandson in 2011. To her there is no greater joy than family! She has grown to love country music AND even learned how to 2 step … yee-haw!

Taylor kirk was born and raised in Bandera the youngest of three siblings. From a young age I was interested and loved horses, I was 4 years old when I first started showing them, I enjoy being outdoors, showing my horses and was a trainer for a few years, and then became interested in bodybuilding and equally enjoyed that as well. I’m looking forward to competing in bodybuilding and competing with my horses.

Linda was born in Apple Valley California. Raised and went to school in Big Bear Lake California. Linda attended a computer programming school briefly in Pasadena but relocated and never finished. Linda has helped her mother run her vacation rental business for approximately 10 years. Linda has quite a few family members who have served. Her grandmothers brother served in the service and unfortunately lost his life in Pearl Harbor. Her grandfather served in the Army as well as her father who then went on to become a fire captain for the US Forestry and retired from that after 30 years. Linda’s son has now followed in his footsteps and has been in the US forestry for 5 years. Her daughter went to school to become a Medical Assistant and has worked for Bear Valley Community Hospital for 6 years in their clinic. Linda has 6 grandkids ranging from 8 to 1.
In her spare time she enjoys cooking and spending time with her oldest grandson Kalieb who she has raised since he was 3 months old.

Barbara was born in Bronx, NY.  When she was ten years old, she moved to Dallas, TX with her family. She became an instant Dallas Cowboys fan and even in the bad years she still is. In 1995 she followed her heart to San Antonio, even though her heart got broken. Barbara moved to Bandera in 2019, following another heart. After this heart broke too, Barbara moved into her own place and was hired here at The Heart. This Heart hasn’t broken, and Barbara is happy here.

Allie Simpson was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. She attended James Madison high school and graduated in 2008, and had plans to join the Marine Corps after she graduated. Soon after graduation she found out she was pregnant with her oldest son. A few years later she was reunited with the love of her life Ryan. Allie and Ryan married and this was the year their oldest daughter was born. Allie worked a few different jobs over the years but ultimately decided it would be best to be a stay-at-home mother while her husband pursued his career as an oil field welder. Allie and Ryan expanded their family and were blessed with one more girl and one more boy, totaling four wonderful children. Allie and her family then relocated to Bandera, Texas to be closer to their grandmother, and fell in love with the small-town life. Over the next few years, Allie homeschooled her children and watched them thrive and grow daily. Wanting to do more with herself, Allie found Warriors Heart and now works in the housekeeping department. Allie’s hobbies include spending time with her family at the coast, fishing, binge watching tv shows, and being the best mom, wife, and friend.

Texas will always be Kara’s home. Although she was born in Contra Costa California. Her mother was a runaway when she had her, so she was born under a fake name. At 3 months old her family came to Texas. She has lived in many states mostly back and forth between Texas and Tennessee. Kara is one of 9 siblings. Kara’s family has a strong background here in Bandera. She has family in many branches of the military from the Army, US Coast Guard, and Air Force. Kara’s great grandfather was the sheriff of Bandera for many years. In 2008 she graduated from Bandera ISD. Soon after she had her son. She now has 2 amazing kids one boy and one girl.

Her son plans to join the military after high school and her daughter thinks she might want to be a teacher/princess.

Over the years Kara has worked at Flying L guest ranch mostly in the kitchen and golf department. She also has a small cleaning business and does seasonal meat processing for big game that she loves and looks forward to it every year.

Kara has studied oil & gas and shallow wells of Texas over the past 13 years, she’s worked for PRI and Emailed Bay for 10 years.

In her free time, she enjoys making jewelry and watching competitive cooking. In the summer she loves being on the river with her kids and loved one.

Andy was born and raised in St. Tammany Parish in Southeast Louisiana. He grew up playing sports and hunting and fishing in the bayous and backwoods. He learned he enjoyed cooking at an early age learning from his mom and grandmother. He began working in restaurants at the age of fifteen and never looked back. Andy enjoys spending time with his children, jogging, and being in the outdoors.

Larry hails from San Antonio, but has roots that stretch to the founding of Bandera. He resides on the family homestead which has the distinction to be registered with the Texas Department of Agriculture as a Century Ranch (it has been in continuous operation by the same family for over 100 years).

Larry is a US Navy Veteran with 11 years experience in electronics. He was an instructor at a multi-service school in Denver Colorado, and alter as a technical writer for a government contractor in Memphis, Tennessee.

Returning to Texas, his career field changed to the culinary arts as a means to support his growin family. He has worked under many chefs including one of the few master chefs and another studying to become a master chef. Boasting nearly 30 years experience, he has a passion for cooking, great tasting food, and making divine desserts.

Larry has struggled with eating disorders which included bariatric surgery. When he heard about Warriors Heart, he knew that it was the place he needed to be.

Sue Espinosa was born in Houston, TX and grew up in Houston/Wheatley until she moved to Bandera TX and graduated from Bandera High School. After graduation, Sue worked with her parents until she went into business for herself. Sues dad is a Marine and she has 2 brothers and a nephew in the military. Sue has 4 corns and 1 grandcorns.  She enjoys spending time with her family, friends, cooking and making her peeps happy.

Ed was born in Ohio at an early age in life. It was in North Carolina where he met and married the love of his life, Lois.  They have been married over 30 years. During those years , Ed worked as a contractor for 10th Special Forces Group and US NORAD/NORTHCOM. It was in Colorado that Ed and Lois opened a restaurant and Ed discovered his talent and love for cooking. Since moving to Texas he has had a successful food truck business and has gained experience as an Executive Chef in retirement communities. Now Ed gets the best of both worlds by cooking for our Warriors!

Kenneth Blaine Hardy is the oldest of three siblings. He was born in Corpus Christi, Texas. Kenneth graduated Magnolia West high school in 2016. After high school , Kenneth worked full time at OST restaurant for 5 years.

In his free time , Kenneth enjoys hiking, fishing, and playing video games. He also finds joy in spending time with his family. His great grandfather served in the Korean War. His uncle served as well. Kenneth joined warriors heart because of his interest in giving back to our countries veterans by preparing their meals.

Richard was born in Houston, Texas. He was raised in Houston until he was 16 then he moved to Bandera, Texas. Richard graduated from Bandera and worked in the food industry most of his life.

Richard enjoys cooking for family, friends, and his wife. He also has an eBay side business. Richard’s biggest passion is cooking. Richard and his wife have 3 boys actually, young men that have informed them to forget about grandkids so that’s that.

Chris Molnar was born in Amarillo TX and is a native Texan. When he was 3 his mother lost her mind and moved them to Cleveland, Ohio, where Chris spent the next 10 years of his life freezing to death. (Go Browns!) When Chris was 14, his father passed away and his family moved to Tyler, Texas.

Chris worked several years in Tyler after dropping out of high school at 16. At 21 he was tired of working paint and body, so he went to college in Amarillo to study engineering. After his second year, he ran out of funds and decided to enlist in the Army. Chris was a 91B Field Medic assigned to Lister Army Hospital. After a couple of years there, he was transferred to Flatiron Air Ambulance Unit and got his Flight Identifier.

Chris left the Army in 1998 with 750 hours of flight time and moved to San Antonio. He switched fields from people to computers and has been in the IT field ever since. Chris began as help desk and has progressed to Director of IT with Southwest Area Regional Transit.

Chris met his wife Amy in 1998 shortly after moving back to Texas. They have 2 boys ages 16 and 18, Ryan and Ethan, respectively. Chris and his family moved from Uvalde to Bandera 5 years ago and are awfully glad they did. They have both joined the Lion’s Club International and enjoy helping the community with various needs.

When the opportunity to work for Warrior’s Heart came up, Chris jumped. He missed the camaraderie that can only come from those that have served. This includes first line responders. As a medic in Alabama, his organization (Flatiron), coordinated military assistance to safety and traffic, where they worked hand in hand with Police, Fire, and EMS in all types of emergencies. They were called for hospital transfers, wrecks, fires, natural emergencies, missing persons, support for DEA raids and NASCAR. Chris knows that when you are speaking with persons to whom Warrior’s Heart serves, it really helps to have served in those situations. Though Chris is mostly involved with the technology, he still feels he will be able to contribute to the mission overall.

Alan was born and raised in Enid Oklahoma until he was 14 yoa. His family then moved in 1974 for two years to Cypress California due to his father’s job, and then on to Corpus Christi Texas in 1976. In Corpus Christi Alan attended Carrol High School and worked as a lifeguard at several different area pools eventually becoming a Gulf Beach lifeguard and swim team coach. At age 23 Alan joined the US Navy as Avionics Tech switching to Fire Control Tech after three years in order to get ship board duty. Alan’s last year in the Navy rather that following his ship into the yard for refit, he volunteered for Naval Special Warfare at SBU 20 where he was assigned to Mark III Sea Spector Patrol Boats and deployed to the Persian Gulf in 1988 to escort oil tankers through the mine fields in the Straights Hormoz. At the end of his deployment, Alan left the Navy and joined the Corpus Christi Tx Police Department in 1989 where worked for 26 years before retiring in 2015. Alan then went on to work for the Texas A&M University Corpus Christi Police Department for another 2.5 years before leaving Policing for good in 2018. Since then Alan has worked as a truck driver and in a manufacturing plant before coming to Warriors Heart in 2020.

Scott was born in Texas, grew up in Bandera, and attended Bandera High School, the University of Texas and Texas State. Scott spent 20 years in Law Enforcement as a City Police Officer (Corpus Christi), State Police Officer (TPWD), and Federal Agent (USSS). He also trained as a Medic at Ft. Sam Houston, TX while working for Uncle Sam. The remainder of his professional career included corporate security positions to include companies like the Texas Rangers Baseball Club, SpaceX, and Airbus Helicopter. Scott loves flying helicopters, operating tractors, fishing, and spending time with friends, family, and his two sons whenever possible.

Bill was born & raised in the Texas panhandle. Bill was a straight A student & athlete. His family was in the oilfield trucking & automotive parts/repair business. At age 15, Bill was introduced to intravenous methamphetamine use & for the next 36 yrs, lived in a constant nightmare of drug addiction that he couldn’t escape. Although he had given up on himself, his family never did. They knew that God could not be limited. Prayers were constant. In late August 2014, at the age of 51, God removed the obsession. Bill has now been clean for 6 yrs & has been working in the treatment industry since January 2016. In March 2016, God showed up again. Bill was asked to train an incoming employee at the treatment center he was working for. The employee that showed up was another blessing & the love of his life. Amber. They were married in 2017. Today Bill is doing what he loves to do…..helping people to recover from alcohol & drug addiction. “To see the light of understanding come on in someone’s eyes is the greatest thing on earth!!”

James Tripp was born and raised in Bandera. At the age of 18, James joined the Army as a Military Police Officer and shortly after deployed to Afghanistan. James spent over five years in the Army with two deployments to Afghanistan before leaving. After leaving the military, James worked in the oil field and took care of his daughter, Olivia, before moving to Louisiana to be closer to her. Now James is back home in Bandera with his family.

Greg Lucas was born and raised in El Paso, TX into a law enforcement family, his father spending 43 years as a Texas peace officer. Greg spent 4 years providing security for federal facilities in Lubbock and Pecos TX and, in 2000, Greg followed in his father’s footsteps. Greg spent the next 18 years as a Texas police officer, deputy sheriff and volunteer firefighter. His law enforcement career primarily focused on criminal interdiction and criminal investigations, field training and instruction. In 2018, Greg medically retired from law enforcement due to health related issues. From 2018 to 2019, Greg worked here at Warrior’s Heart but did leave for a time to deal with health and other family issues. Greg has had to overcome obstacles such as PTSD, severe life-threatening health issues and alcoholism. Being in recovery, being a part of the warrior community and dealing with the difficulties that accompany a life in service, Greg is uniquely qualified to help others in similar positions. Greg’s life has been spent in the service of others and, in 2022, Greg was able to return to Warrior’s Heart so he could continue to be of service to others.

Bob Hauk was born in Houston, TX and raised in Matagorda, TX. He graduated from high school in Port Allen, LA. Shortly after graduation, Bob joined the US Army Reserves. In 1984, he went on active duty in the US Army Military Police Corp, he specialized in traffic accident investigations. During his military career, Bob was assigned to the 1st, 3rd, 4th and 5th Infantry Divisions. He served in Germany, Bosnia, Korea, Cuba, as well as stateside. Bob retired from the US Army in 2004, but continued working for the Army as a DA Police Officer for 7 years. Bob met his wife CJ while they were stationed in Germany. They have been together for 33 years, they have 3 children and 1 grandchild.

In his spare time, Bob enjoys long motorcycle rides (escapes) with his wife. Spending time with family and friends or just relaxing at home

Pam was born in Alice, Texas moved to California at an early age and back to Texas in 1965.

She was a military wife most of her life. She is widowed now. She has 5 daughters, 12 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 3 more on the way!

Pam volunteered as an EMT-I with Bandera County EMS for many years. She worked with the City of Bandera as the court clerk and associate judge for 12 years

Client Relations Team

Sandra Van Bibber born in Pekin, Illinois, grew up in North Pekin moved to Texas after graduating from Pekin Community High.

She met her husband in San Antonio in March 1985, they married in January 1989 and have 1 son that they welcomed in November 1993.

Her family moved to Bandera in 2003 and fell in love with the small town.

She’s worked at different jobs always trying to help whoever needed it along the way. Sandra worked for Bandera County Sheriff’s Office in dispatch for 13 1/2 years, prior to working as a home health aide, and in an assisted living center. Sandra also prepares income taxes during tax season and has been doing this for the last 26 years.

She loves spending time with family and going to flea markets.

Sandra loves to help people and is a great listener.

Shawn Copeland was born in San Antonio, TX. He has lived in Michigan, California, and New Mexico, but Bandera is where home is to him, where he graduated from Bandera High School in 2014. He married his wife Amanda in 2014 and has a son Leon who was born in 2018. Shawn worked for Texas Department of Criminal Justice as a corrections officer at a maximum-security unit for a little over a year. He is currently working on his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and hopes for a future career in law enforcement. He enjoys fishing, playing guitar, camping, working on cars, and spending time with his family.

Bailey was born in Bossier City, Louisiana and raised in Longview, Tx where she lived for 24 years. She is the oldest of 5 girls and has always displayed natural leadership qualities. Bailey graduated from high school in 2012 at age 16; two years early and with honors. After completing high school, she began college, where she achieved a degree in Emergency Medicine, and became a Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician. Her career path was greatly influenced by her father, who has been a first responder working as a fire fighter, paramedic, and SWAT officer her entire life. She has worked in various customer service and healthcare fields. 

Bailey moved from East Texas to the Hill Country in 2021, where she met and married her wife, Erica. They built their dream home and are raising three fur babies. Rowan and Rhett are black lab’s that they began fostering at 2 weeks old, and later adopted; and Quinn is a 3lb Jack Russel mix, who although small, runs their house. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her wife, and making memories they can forever cherish. 

Taylor was born and raised in the Bandera and Spring Branch areas. All her life she has served others and has been told she’s an easy person to talk to. In her adult life, she has worked in mostly customer service in retail and after the birth of her daughter, she moved into the medical field as a medical collector. In Taylor’s spare time she can be found spending time with her daughter, reading, or playing a game with her friends.

Rachel grew up in Northern California with both parents serving in the Air Force, stationed at Travis AFB during that time. Her father served 38 years and her mother served 36. She attended and graduated from Vanden High School. After that, she took some courses in Psychology but decided to go to Cosmetology School. She has been licensed and offering her services since 2015. When her parents were both retired, they knew they wanted to move to TX. Rachel followed them to the amazing little town of Bandera. It was undoubtedly the best decision she made! She enjoys swimming, cooking, and listening to the classics.

Brian was born in California. He eventually moved to the Hill Country of Texas. Brian is a volunteer firefighter and enjoys serving his community and surrounding towns. Brian has family that has served in law enforcement, military, and firefighting.

Etta Morin was born in Annapolis, Maryland and traveled many places with her family including overseas as her father served honorably in the United States Army for more than twenty years.  She calls Texas home and is proud to say she lives in Bandera County.

About five years ago, Etta watched a news story about Warriors Heart and hoped that one day she’d be fortunate to be part of the team.  She moved to Bandera with the desire to fulfill that dream and is blessed to work part-time as part of an amazing team helping Warriors heal.

She is passionate about serving all people and being a voice for those who do not always have the ability to speak for themselves.  She serves as a volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate for children in CPS care in Texas.

Etta’s many hobbies and activities include exploring the hill country, spending time with friends and family, getting to the range as often as possible and attending Al Anon and open AA meetings regularly.  She loves to learn and is working on completing her degree in Criminal Justice.

Sonya Marie Louvierre Taylor was born to wonderful parents and raised in Southwest Louisiana. She grew up in the fun “Cajun Life” along with her brother, sister and many family members. She loves her heritage and also have been gifted with this great thing called the “Joie de Vivre” an (exuberant enjoyment of life). At the age of twenty one, she met and married a Texan, thus the move to Utopia, Texas, where for twenty seven years she made a home and raised her beautiful children. Sonya now reside happily in Bandera for the last sixteen years. Sonya recently retired after twelve years in law enforcement from the Bandera County Sheriffs Office as their jail secretary. Sonya joined the Warriors Heart team because her friends Louie and Christina Moreno were inspirational and encouraging in her joining the WH team so soon after retirement. Sonya is a very proud “LOVIE” to her five Grandbabies that her Son and Daughter, along with their Spouses gave her. She especially loves her coffee in the morning with cream and sugar, just like a dessert. Lol She also enjoys family vacations to the beach at Port A, and mostly any free time spending life with the people she love.

Christine Love was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois.  She wanted a better life for her children so she followed her parents to Missouri where they had bought a country store.  Unfortunately, the business failed after years of trying and they moved to Kansas City.  As a single mom, Christine worked as a manual laborer in union construction and at a coal fired power plant due to the decent wages and benefits.  She got her GED and started taking college classes and enlisted in the Air Force Reserves.  Christine continued her education and became a Licensed Vocational Nurse in Kansas City in 1991, earned her wings and flew Aero Vac in her AFR unit. She loves C130s!  In a nursing career spanning three decades, Christine has been blessed to have so many diverse duties as a nurse, and her favorite part has always been one on one time with her patients.

Her hobbies are Rock Hounding, camping, hiking, and she has a passion for creating crafts and art.  Christine loves nature. She enjoys being a grandma and spending time with her family.  She also has two cats she loves dearly.

Charlotte Washington was born in Amherst, Ohio, many, many moons ago. She has 3 siblings; one older sister (passed) a younger brother, and a younger sister. Her parents divorced very early in her life, but that’s ok because her mother met her savior, and she met her hero…..her DAD! Charlotte was a military brat as they say. She has lived in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Colorado, California, New Mexico, and has been here in Texas for over 30 years. She wanted to join the army with her dear childhood friend in the buddy system, but fate had a different destiny for her. Between her and her husband they have 6 children, and 9 grandchildren! She has always been drawn to the ones that need someone, even as a young child, if she feels a pulling to go and she goes. She may not know where or why, but when she arrives it is usually at the same spot of someone in need.

Alicia was born in Tulsa Oklahoma, moved to Corpus Christi for four years, where she met her husband and had 3 children. She was a stay-at-home mom and housewife for 18 years. She moved to Bandera Texas in 2017. She was employed at old Spanish trail (OST) for 5 years. And decided it was time to make a change.

In her free time, she loves to spend time with her grandson and kids and family. She loves to fish, go swimming, hiking, taking photos, scrapbooking. Alicia is a very proud Christian.

Summer was born in San Antonio, her parents were both in the military, so she has been around the military her whole life. Summer loves giving back to those that have given their lives to serving themselves. Being in a dual service family she moved around a lot and by the time she hit high school she had been enrolled in 9 different schools.

Casey Valentine was raised in Bandera, Texas. She graduated from Northwest Vista College with an associate degree in Business Administration.

Casey has worked in the hospital industry, where she loved helping people and overcome their situation.

Casey has been married to her wonderful husband, Matthew.

They have been married for 10 years now and have 3 beautiful children together.

Her family is very much into their children and their activities.

Her family is very involved in Bandera County 4-H Programs as well as Bandera County Soccer Organization. Casey is a big supporter of our Military and First Responders. She has numerous family members that have served.

Monique Rhea, a full-blooded Texan; born in El Paso and raised in Texas. During Monique latter years she moved to Mississippi to live with her grandfather, where she met her husband, married, and had 3 children. The family relocated to Kerrville, Texas where Monique helped her dad run “Camp Christian” to which was owned by the Church of Christ. The camp was sold to the United Way, after which Monique attended National Education Center, earning he diploma in Medical Assisting and later went to work for Kidney Treatment Center as a Dialysis Technician. This position added substance and importance to Monique’s life; later having to terminate her employment due to son health. In 2016 attended Kaplan/Brightwood College, earning her clinical certification in Medical Assisting. Although Monique enjoyed working in the clinical setting, she has most enjoyed working with patients on Hospice, providing quality of life for the remainder of their lives. Monique has both first responder and military in her family background; Monique’s father was a firefighter when Monique was younger, and her younger brother retired from the US Army as LTC Robert Jay Gould. In Monique’s spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, loves country western dancing and water skiing. Monique’s passions come from her heart where she has a great desire to help another in need while improving their life and dancing; allowing her to get exercise, socialize and decompress. Monique has 3 grown children and 4 grandchildren: all live in the Boerne and Canyon Lake area. Among these family members, Monique has fur babies to which she considers a big part of her family. After the lost her brother in February 2022, Monique search for answer and on how she could honor her brother. Although Monique’s brother did not have PTSD or an addiction.

Paula Ott was born in New Hampton, Iowa. She attended a catholic school from 1st grade until with 8th grade then finished grades 9-12 in a public high school. Paula attended college to get her medical assistant degree then worked with troubled children and young adults for over 20 years. Paula has several people in her family that are military including her father-in-law, 2 uncles and a nephew that have all served. Paula’s husband has been a firefighter for over 30 years and together they have two children. One remains back in Iowa and her daughter has moved with them to Texas. In her spare time, she enjoys spending money and feeding a huge heard of deer. She loves coming home from work and having up to 50 deer waiting in her yard to be fed, they are such beautiful gifts from God. Paula also has a beautiful yellow lab named Brody who she spoils rotten. She has three cats Tillie, Sassy and Stripes that also fill her heart with love. When she arrived in Texas, she did not plan to work but that only lasted for so long and she became bored. Some of her friends told her about Warriors Heart so she decided to give it a try. Paula enjoys waking in the morning and going to work. She decided to take on something a lot less stressful, so she took a job in housekeeping, and it is so rewarding.

Christine Ramirez was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico in March of 1987 on an AirForce base. Christine’s family moved to Texas when she was still young, and she will always call it home.  She has four siblings: two younger brothers and two younger sisters. She is the mother of two beautiful teenage girls who test their limits daily, but she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Christine is also a full-time college student studying to be a dental assistant on top of everything else she juggles daily.

Ryan was born in San Antonio, Tx and has lived in Bandera for the majority of his life, alongside his two brothers and is close to his family. He graduated from Bandera High School in 2016 and attempted to go into the Air Force, where he learned that he was colorblind and couldn’t go into the career he wanted, and has worked mainly retail since around the hill county area. Over the last few years he has gotten closer to his family after going through a rough few years of distancing himself from them and has never felt at home as he does now.

Support Team

Annette Hill is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and EMDR Certified Therapist. She has a private practice in Scottsdale. Annette has worked with children in the foster care system both as coordinator of the Life Book program with Arizona’s Children Association and later as a therapist in Devereaux, Arizona. Out of these experiences, she created a “turn-key” curriculum, called The Journey of Me, to train foster care agencies in how to create and sustain their own Life Book program.

Annette has 10 years of experience working as a dual diagnosis therapist in residential treatment settings, including The Meadows, and eight years with The Sundance Center.

Though Annette treats patients with a variety of diagnoses, she specializes in the treatment of trauma. She works with Veterans both in her private practice, as well as through a 27-year-old non-profit program called Operation Freedom Bird as a volunteer therapist and board member. Operation Freedom Bird takes Arizona combat vets from all wars to Washington, D.C. on a four-day Healing Journey each year over the Veterans Day holiday.

Annette is also a Gold Star Mother. Her son, Adam Hill Gibson, served two tours in Iraq. He passed away as a result of symptoms of PTSD in 2009.

Luis “Louie” Moreno was born in La Jolla, California and was raised in Tijuana, Mexico and San Ysidro, California. One of 13 children, Luis grew up in the fast lane and was exposed to gang activity at a very young age. Louie’s parents decided a change was needed. At the age of 18, he and his parents moved to Kerrville, Texas seeking better opportunities.

He received his jailers license and decided law enforcement was a perfect fit for him. He went on and received his Peace Officer license in 2006. Louie enlisted in the Army National Guard 36th Infantry Division in 2007 with the intent of being able to go to college after he served his time. The Army had a different plan. Louie served a combat tour in Iraq in 2009 and served his country until 2016.

Louie currently works for the Sheriff’s Department as the Sergeant in the Support Division. Among many different jobs, one that Louie enjoys the most is courtroom security. He has proudly served the citizens of Bandera County since 2012.

Louie serves his community in many different roles. He coaches for Bandera Little League and Bandera Boys & Girls Club. He is involved with the planning of National Night Out and is active in most all community events in some aspect.

Louie serves Warriors Heart in many different capacities. He runs the merchandise shop on site and seeks out new opportunities for merchandise to go into retail storefronts. Sometimes you’ll even have him as a driver to CrossFit.

Luis is married to Christina and they have a beautifully blended family of 3: Taytum, Giovanni, and Maddox Azucena (Maddi Sue in Texan).

Jordyn was born and raised in Golden, Colorado. After graduating high school, she enlisted in the United States Navy. She served for four years onboard the USS Bonhomme Richard in Sasebo, Japan as an Operations Specialist.

Upon moving back to the United States, she attended the Alamo Area Regional Law Enforcement Academy in San Antonio, Texas. She graduated from AACOG in December of 2018 and became a patrol officer at a local law enforcement agency. Along with her basic patrol duties, she was also selected to be a part of the department’s SWAT team. Jordyn has also certified as a Mental Health Peace Officer and a peer to peer counselor.

In March of 2020, she attended a local Jiu Jitsu tournament in San Antonio. Jordyn considers this date to be a pivotal point in her life, being that this was the day she was introduced to Warrior’s Heart. Since that day, she has taken every opportunity to be a part of the mission. She continues to train as a part of the Warrior’s Heart Jiu Jitsu team.

Throughout her time in the military, law enforcement, and her in involvement in Warriors Heart; helping her fellow warriors has become a major part of Jordyn’s life. Jordyn married her best friend and the love of her life, Josh Jureczki. Together they relentlessly pursue any opportunity to give back and support the community that has given them so much.

Joshua was born in Kerrville, Texas where he attended grade school and the beginning of middle school in the public school. In 1992 my family moved to Evansville, Indiana where Joshua would graduate from high school. After graduation he went straight to work for the family construction business building residential homes. He spent a couple years working for the family business before moving back to Texas.

Joshua attended the Alamo Area Council of Government (AACOG) law enforcement academy in 2005. Upon completion of the academy Joshua worked for a local police department. During his time at the Police Department he worked in the patrol division, investigations and then promoted to the Patrol Lieutenant position. He was active and involved in every extra duty the police department offered. He served as a member on the Special Operation Unit (SWAT) team; holding positions on the team as urban marksman, assistant team leader and then team commander. He was also member of the department firearms team which included all firearms training, defensive tactics and scenario based training.

In August 2020 he left the Police Department and was hired by the Office of Inspector General (State Police) and was dual commissioned with the United States Marshal Service. Joshua is assigned to the USMS Lone Star Fugitive Task Force-San Antonio as a Task Force Officer.

Joshua has three children. One who is employed at Warriors Heart, one who is serving in the United States Navy and one who is a high school student.

Joshua was introduced to Warriors Heart in 2017. Over the last few years he has been an active member of the Jiu Jitsu team, attended leadership courses and currently on the cadre for the Warriors Heart Academy.

Joshua’s wife, Jordyn, is a veteran of the United States Navy and is currently serving as a Deputy with a local County Sheriff’s Office.

Born and raised in the fertile Central Valley and later in Northern California, Donna always valued the great outdoors as well as proper nutrition and exercise.This has led her to a lifestyle that emphasized fitness, volunteer work as a Missionary in several countries, acupressure, aromatherapy, massage therapy,aerobics, and Yoga.

In her early adult development, she became certified in Aerobics Instruction with AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America) teaching at the YMCA. Later, she received Certification in Acupressure/Massage Therapy from the Berkeley Acupressure Institute. During these years, she served as a Missionary in areas like Ecuador, and West Africa, where she fulfilled her calling to enhance the lives of those in need.

Having practiced Yoga and Meditation for over 15 years, Donna became a Registered Yoga Instructor through AC Power Yoga of San Antonio. She is currently the owner of Downriver Yoga in Bandera, Texas. Married to husband Scott and the mother of Savanna, in middle school, as well as three older step-children, one of which is currently serving in the US Navy.

Donna loves horseback riding and enjoys the lifestyle of the Texas Hill Country.

Mr. Wilson is considered one of the world’s leading experts in uncovering the scientific bases of how we learn and change behavior. He is also the author of the soon to be published book Cracking the Learning Code, the culmination of over 30 years of scientific research into how to accelerate the speed of learning and the rate of behavioral change.

He has suffered from, and overcome, PTSD. In addition, he has successfully developed the country’s only holistic drug and rehabilitation center, accredited by the Joint Hospital Commission. During JW’s tenure, JHC was ranked among the top 10% of all such treatment centers nationwide by the Commission.

JW has practiced meditation for over 30 years. JW has developed and managed many businesses, including corporate training firms serving Fortune 500 clients such as IBM, Kodak and AT&T. In the 1990’s, JW was president of one of the world’s leading accelerated learning companies. He has owned the largest magazine marketing development firm in the Pacific region, developed the country’s only holistic treatment center, was a 23 founder of Convention Television (www.ctvnational.com) and has produced over 200 TV shows and commercials.

The innovative Learning Code research is now being used to create the first school system in the world totally based on neuroscience. It’s used by organizations including the country’s largest employer organization, and the group that implements leadership training for NASA, The UN and the National Institutes of Health. JW’s research is also the impetus for a major African nation to base all of its future learning platforms on neuroscience. In addition, Mr. Wilson has developed over 20 start-ups. His diverse background has placed him in Who’s Who in Medicine and Health Care, Who’s Who in Science and Engineering, Who’s Who in Finance and Industry, Who’s Who in America, and Who’s Who in the World.

JW’s passion, which he calls his crusade, is to bring this essential knowledge to the world.

TC Cummings brings a unique, common sense approach for lasting personal empowerment. Like the yin and yang model, Cummings combines a multifaceted approach with the singular most common denominator to the world’s most universal battlefield: the battle within.

In 1986 TC enlisted in the US Navy, was trained as a Hospital Corpsman and US Navy SEAL where he deployed three times in war time conditions. Decorated on multiple accounts, he was honorably discharged from service in 1994.

Having been a teacher, a trainer, and a confidant to some of the world’s mightiest warriors (and biggest egos) prepared TC Cummings to provide the same services in the civilian sector. Often turning to the journals he kept since childhood and through his career as a SEAL Operator, he effectively translated the mental tools learned for success, proven under fire and easily remembered, to business owners, executives, and staffing.

Refining his skills further, he became a Certified Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming, a Certified Hypnotherapist, and a Time-Line Therapist to better understand people. He brought his leadership experience and commitment level to “the chairman of public speaking” Mr. Jim Rohn. For eight years, TC Cummings served as the first and only Master Coach of the highly revered Jim Rohn International.

TC Cummings has been on the cover of the Wall Street Journal, America’s #1 watched morning news show Fox & Friends, and various radio interviews. His clients vary from small business owners to mega-employers at home and abroad. All clients have a common the desire to do what they have to do today so they can be where they want to be tomorrow.

Liz Kelly founded Goody PR to magnify brands, experts, and causes making an impact through Marketing, PR, Social Media, and Cause Marketing services. After working for Fox Interactive Media/MySpace, Paramount Pictures, and Sprint PCS, she decided to use her marketing experience for GOOD.

As a published author with 500+ media interviews and Goody Awards Founder, her passion is partnering with social impact companies to develop and promote their story. Goody PR clients are primarily in the health, finance, tech, entertainment and cause marketing space.

Recent interviews have included stories for Fox News, CBS News, ABC News Radio, USA TODAY, Investor’s Business Daily, The Atlantic, Closer Magazine, Fit Nation Magazine and Nonprofit Business Advisor. Liz is especially excited to work with Josh and Lisa Lannon and Tom Spooner on Warriors Heart, and previously did PR for Journey Healing Centers until it was acquired.

Liz recently joined the Hollywood 43 Post The American Legion as an Auxiliary Family Member. Her grandfather served in World War II in the United States Coast Guard, and her aunt Katherine also served in the Red Cross during World War II in Europe and the Pacific Theater.

K9 Team

Michelle is a Native Texan and in true Texas form, grew up on her family’s horse ranch near Houston. She learned the value of hard work and dedication early in life, traveling the country showing Competitive Quarter Horses. This lifestyle began her life long passion for animal training and behavior.

She has worked as a Zookeeper and Trainer at several AZA accredited zoos where she took care of many rare and endangered species. Michelle developed training and enrichment programs for exotic animals and spent her zoo career educating the public about wildlife conservation. She has worked with incredible animals like venomous snakes, crocodiles over 14 feet, tigers, vampire bats, koalas, and birds of prey. She has even had the opportunity to hand raise orphaned zoo babies.

Michelle transitioned into the Canine field through the Military Working Dog Center at Lackland Air Force Base. She loved working with the MWDs as well as active duty and veterans from all Military branches. Michelle then moved on to work with Nationally competitive Field Trial Dogs. At home, she enjoys the company of her two Boston Terriers, Otis and Olive.

Michelle spends her free time in the barn. She is a multiple World and National Champion Equestrian. She breeds, raises and trains English disciplined horses.

Michelle is a talented animal trainer and has a passion for people as well. You may notice that she wears her “heart” on her sleeve. She believes the powerful healing properties that animals possess are useful tools for trauma recovery.

Makenzie was born and raised in Kerrville Texas. She graduated early from Hill Country High School in September of 2019. In her spare time Makenzie enjoys spending quality time with family, along with all the animal companions she has. Makenzie has a passion for helping people and seeing them strive in their life and finding their happiness.

K9 Bubba Bubba is a rescue from Dallas! Bubba is our certified emotional support animal at Warriors Heart! K9 Bubba is approximately two years old and has transitioned from being a dog in training to his permanent place as a detox therapy dog here at Warriors Heart. He is living the dream while showing love and support to our warriors.

K9 Valkyrie is a Belgium Malinois, born in 2017 and began her career as an Autism Service Dog.  She did not meet the qualifications for that job and was donated to Warriors Heart and is a Permanent Resident.  Val has exceeded expectations as a PTSD Dog and is able to interrupt low level anxiety and panic attacks.  She is also used as a K9 Training Aid to help new handlers learn the feel of a fully trained dog.  Valkyrie especially loves being a lap dog and peanut butter.

K9 Kimber is a Staffordshire Terrier, born around 2016. She was a stray that decided to stay and is now a permanent resident. She loves Nature Hikes but prefers to go with a running partner. Kimber has seasonal allergies and really loves a good belly rub. She works as an Emotional Support Dog and often helps Warriors feel more at ease in times of stress. Kimber knows that petting a dog lowers the stress hormone, cortisol and increases oxytocin and serotonin levels, feel good hormones!

Program Team

Misty Anthony was born and raised in the heart of Bandera, Texas! Prior to working at Warriors Heart, Misty worked for Purple Sage Ranch Resort and Conference Center. She served as a lead Guest Attendant for 5 ½ years. Misty would oversee all aspects of guest service, meal service/flow, cooperate meeting service, and the overall needs of the guest staying at the Ranch.

Misty continues to be in service to others as the Program Director for Warriors Heart. She is a concierge of sorts for the Warriors coming in for treatment. With over 10 years of customer service behind her, she is able to zero in on the needs of her clients very well.

We are honored to have Misty on the front lines serving our Warriors.

Misty and her husband Russell met in High School and have been inseparable since 2004. They have their hands full raising their incredible son and daughter.

“Where are you from?” Is a Question Moe usually takes a while to answer. With his Father being enlisted Air Force, His family was stationed all over the place. Moe was actually born in Germany near Frankfurt, while they were stationed at Rhein Main Air Base. After he was born his family came back to the states temporarily then were stationed at Incirlik Air Base Turkey. And after a time they returned to Germany, then made they’re permanent residence in the Lone Star state. Skipping ahead to the end of his teenage years Moe graduated from O’Connor High School and married his high school sweetheart at 19, and they decided together to live a life dedicated to Loving God and Loving people. They, and they’re two young boys Luke and Abel, now call Bandera Texas Home. Yep, that is a long answer to that question.

Moe spent 7 years in the Utility/Construction industry, dedicating himself to understanding how to better serve people. He also spent years as a handyman in San Antonio after normal work hours, and understands the importance of comfort in a living space. Moe loves music, he is passionate about teaching music. He loves to teach others to play musical instruments, and finds such a joy when someone he is teaching becomes passionate about the instrument they are learning and how to use their own gifts. He spends a lot of his time at his church where he volunteers, Moe also loves to fish, and raise his chickens at home. Moe believes in the vision of warriors Heart and is excited to be a part of this great team.

Born and raised in San Antonio Texas. Dan graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio with a bachelor’s degree in architecture. Dan has an amazing gift for art and also serves as the in-house architect for Warriors Heart.

Dan has worked for various architecture firms in Austin and San Antonio, and throughout this time accomplished many design and graphic art projects. Later, Dan studied art under artist Stephen Fishwick, where he developed skills for caricature and airbrush art.

The man of many talents, Dan now chooses to work with the Warriors on the front line in Client Relations.

Dan is happily married to his life love, Deborah, and is proud to report a daily gratitude of giving Deborah a kiss every morning before heading to work.

Joel was born in San Antonio, TX and raised in Bandera. He has worked in construction and metal since 2006. Joel worked the pipeline in the Eagle Ford Shale running 4 to 6 in pipe and roustabout. Joel developed a drug problem and now have been in successful recovery for almost 10 years. Joel is looking forward to bringing home a million warriors, who have given so much, the opportunity to reach their goals and live productive happy lives.

The Warriors Heart Woodshop Instructor is a Christian with a large family. He is fifth generation Texan and enjoys being around animals, children, and the outdoors. He has been with Warriors Heart since November 2021.

Kristina De La Fuente was born in Stuttgart, Germany to US Army Sergeant First Class Roger Blair Scharmen (deceased) and Gabriella Ruth Muller (deceased), a German native. The life of a “Military Brat” took her on many adventures, both locally and internationally.  Kristina and her family settled in Bandera after the death of her Mother to cancer in 1989,  and her father’s marriage to Pam Scharmen, some years later. She has been a local of Bandera for thirty years , a 1994 Graduate of Bandera High School, and raised her three children here.

Kristina was a stay-at-home mom for twelve years, then went on to pursue a career in Accounting and Bookkeeping, working at the local Electric Coop, and eventually moved on to their PR and Marketing Team, as A Community Relations Specialist. After some time of not feeling fulfilled, she moved into the Healthcare field, working with the Elderly and those dealing with Parkinson’s and Dementia. She spent years working in Nursing Homes, Private Care and Hospice Care setting.

Kristina is a recent empty nester, enjoying a job she is passionate about , enjoys spending her free time with her three young adult children, and embracing the joys of being a Mee-Maw to three grandchildren.

Insurance Team

Rick Zello, MSgt, USAF (Retired) MA

Rick grew up in rural Western Pennsylvania in a family with a long history of military service. He enlisted in the US Air Force and began his own military career directly after High School. Rick served as a T4C071 (Mental Health and Addiction Specialist) his entire career with the exception of a Special Duty assignment as Professional Military Education (PME) instructor at Goodfellow AFB Texas. In 2004 he deployed with an Aero-medical Evacuation Team that transported wounded service members from Iraq and Afghanistan to Ramstein Air Base, Germany. In 2005 he served as the Detainee Operations Senior Medical Enlisted Manager at the Guantanamo Bay Cuba Detention Center where he worked directly with detainees. He last served as Mental Health Flight Chief at Randolph AFB Texas and retired from the USAF in 2008 at the rank of MSgt (E-7).

Rick has associate degrees in business, allied healthcare sciences and instruction of technology and military sciences. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Wayland Baptist University and a Master’s of Arts Degree in Community Counseling from Webster University.

Rick has been married to his wife Loriann, also a USAF Veteran, for over 30 years and has 3 adult children. He and his family serve in a number of roles with local churches, veteran groups, food pantries and other non-profit groups.

Since Military Retirement, Rick has worked in health care and education in a variety of clinical, academic, and administrative positions working with teens, adults and senior citizens. His heart always brings him back to working with veterans, and first responders who struggle, as Rick has in the past, with addictions, trauma and other personal demons. Rick is honored to be a part of the Warriors Heart team and to be a part of the miracle of recovery and be a part of the heling that takes places. “Warriors Healing Warriors” is far more than a great motto- it is a way of life and Rick is blessed to be part of that journey of healing for his fellow warrior brothers and sisters.

Brooke was born in Honolulu, HI, and grew up in Milan, Indiana. Her Dad served 17 years in the Marine Corp, and her mother served both in the Marine Corp and the Army. Following the long family history of military service, Brooke served in the Army as an Information Systems Analyst. She has been married 12 years to her husband who is currently an Active Duty Apache Pilot, stationed out of Fort Drum, NY and they have 3 amazing children together. In her free time Brooke likes to take adventures with her family, spend time at the lake, and talking with friends and family.

After the military Brooke started working for Military Housing, serving the community in which she was a part of. Property Management brought so much joy to her professional life, but working in the military community it also showed her a direct insight into the trauma that people can be exposed to. This is where the desire to make a difference kicked in full swing. Completing 9 years of Property Management she then ventured off into the world of Medical Billing. For more than 3 years of Behavioral/Mental Health Billing for a nonprofit in upstate New York, Brooke wanted to expand her passion even further, and has joined our Team here at Warriors Heart. Her dedication to her work and passion for helping people will be exciting!

Born in Santa Anna California to a military family, Elizabeth quickly moved to San Antonio Texas where she grew up and attended high school at MacArthur High, after graduating she met her husband and relocated to Bandera where her husband lived. Elizabeth and her husband, with their 3 daughters built a small horse farm, currently showing and raising these beautiful animals.

Elizabeth has over 30 years experience in the medical field with 25 years of behavioral health. Elizabeth started her own small business 25 years ago. Today she is blessed with 2 granddaughters and hopes for many more.