Theresa Kulikowski-Gillespie, an Army Veteran and Physician Assistant, has recently released a book titled “Beyond the Battlefield: Stories of Tenacity and Mindful Guidance Along the Warrior’s Path.” The book shares the true stories of 15 military members, highlighting their struggles, triumphs, and the transformative power of mindfulness and meditation in their healing journey. Kulikowski-Gillespie, a functional medicine PA and certified mindfulness meditation teacher, draws from her own health journey post-deployment to Tikrit, Iraq, to delve into holistic medicine and the importance of self-care.
In her military service from 2009-2012, Kulikowski-Gillespie served as a Battalion PA in Iraq. Her experiences in the Army as a medical provider exposed her to the challenges faced by service members, both physically and mentally. This insight inspired her to create a platform for authentic storytelling, shedding light on the struggles often hidden behind a facade of toughness in the military culture.
The themes explored in Kulikowski-Gillespie’s book are deeply influenced by her military background. She aims to normalize and share the struggles faced by military personnel, encouraging open dialogue and understanding. Through authentic storytelling, she hopes to connect with other women Veterans, active duty service members, and the general public, fostering compassion, empathy, and awareness of the sacrifices made by those in the military.
Kulikowski-Gillespie believes that storytelling and literature play a crucial role in building understanding and support for the women Veteran community. By sharing personal narratives, individuals can connect on a deeper level, recognizing both the unique experiences and shared humanity within the military community.
One memorable experience from Kulikowski-Gillespie’s time in the military involved offering support and guidance to a struggling soldier, introducing him to mindfulness and meditation as tools for healing. Years later, the soldier expressed gratitude for her help, highlighting the impact of compassionate listening and empowerment in the healing process.
Inspired by fellow women Veteran authors like Melissa Renee, Kulikowski-Gillespie emphasizes the importance of sharing stories and experiences to create a supportive community. Through initiatives like the Women Veterans Book Corner, she hopes to raise awareness and promote understanding of women Veterans within both civilian and military circles.
For other women Veterans or active-duty service members considering writing about their experiences, Kulikowski-Gillespie encourages authenticity and self-expression. She believes that sharing personal stories can be empowering and healing, allowing individuals to connect with others and find a sense of purpose in their narratives.
Writing “Beyond the Battlefield” has been a transformative experience for Kulikowski-Gillespie, allowing her to delve into the depths of human experience and offer a platform for healing and resilience. She is currently working on her second book, “Beyond the Chalk Box,” which explores the experiences of Olympic gymnasts through candid interviews and holistic wellness practices.
As a founder of Fit Intuit, a holistic wellness and performance coaching platform, Kulikowski-Gillespie continues to support high-achievers, including military populations and athletes, in their journey towards optimal health and well-being. Her dedication to sharing stories, promoting mindfulness, and fostering community highlights the importance of self-care and compassion in healing and growth.