In this episode of Untold Valor, Dr. Cathy Bennett-Santos shares her powerful journey from Army medic to nationally recognized advocate for women veterans impacted by military sexual trauma. She discusses the challenges many veterans face after service, the evolution of support systems within the VA, and why peer-to-peer connection can be life-changing. Dr. Santos also opens up about spirituality, healing, and the importance of finding support instead of suffering in silence.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Personal Story: Dr. Santos’ journey
• Women Veterans: Advocacy and progress
• Military Trauma: Challenges after service
• Peer Support: Veterans helping veterans
• Mental Health: Healing and recovery
• Breaking Silence: Why conversations matter

0:00 – Intro

1:39 – Get to know Dr. Santos

5:04 – On the other side of the oath

6:53 – Creating a platform for women veterans

8:26 – The struggle to speak up

11:01 – The importance of peer-to-peer veteran support

12:52 – Dr. Santos’ encouragement to veterans

Dr. Cathy Bennett-Santos

Learn more about Dr. Santos HERE

Get a copy of My Desert Storm: https://www.amazon.com/-/he/Phillyvet/dp/B0DRMHW6R6

EPISODE RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q