When Tanya joined the U.S. Navy in 1998, she already knew she wanted to care for others. Following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather, both Navy officers, she became a critical care nurse—serving six years on active duty and another six in the reserves.
Stationed in Washington, D.C., Tanya was working at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda on September 11, 2001. “Our hospital received patients from the Pentagon attack,” she recalled. “Before 9/11, it felt like a nine-to-five atmosphere. After that, everything changed.” The hospital began receiving trauma patients directly from overseas, and Tanya found herself treating wounded service members just days after they were injured.
Years later, after sustaining a traumatic brain injury, Tanya’s own family became her support system—especially her husband, who has served as her full-time caregiver for more than a decade. “It’s been good for him to connect with other caregivers who understand what he’s going through,” she said.
Through Yellow Ribbon Fund, her family—now based in Tampa—has found both community and connection. They’ve attended family programs and caregiver events, including the Ocean Reef Retreat, where Tanya says her four children bonded with other military families. “They don’t always get along,” she laughed, “but seeing them connect with other kids who just get it was really special.”
What sets Yellow Ribbon Fund apart, Tanya says, is its emphasis on caregivers—especially men. “It’s hard to find programs that support male caregivers,” she said. “That’s one of the things that makes Yellow Ribbon Fund different.”
Her advice to other veterans and families? “Absolutely do it. You’ll find it so beneficial.”
