HunterSeven Foundation

Army Veteran | Mother | Wife | Warrior In Loving Memory of Anna Givens With heavy hearts and deep reverence, we honor the life and legacy of Anna Givens, who passed away one year ago on March 21, 2024, after an unrelenting battle with FLT3+ acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Anna enlisted in the United States Army in 2010 as a logistics specialist—fueled by pride, dedication, and a desire to serve something greater than herself. Just two years later, she deployed with the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade to Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan, where, for over a year, she provided critical logistical support to aviation operations in one of Afghanistan's most remote, austere, and dangerous regions. She did so with grace, grit, and the steady resolve that defined her. In February 2023, Anna received the devastating diagnosis of FLT3+ AML, a rare and aggressive form of leukemia. But even as the ground beneath her shifted, she stood firm. She underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy, exhausting every FDA-approved treatment. Refusing to surrender, Anna—alongside her loving family—sought hope in the form of a clinical trial and stem cell transplant at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Through months of intense treatment, endless hospital stays, severe infections, and unrelenting physical suffering, Anna never stopped fighting. Her strength was anchored in love—for her husband Chase, an active-duty service member holding down their home at Fort Gregg-Adams, and their two young children, just 3 and 8 years old, who remained her guiding light through every dark moment. Separated by distance but never by heart, Anna and her family carried one another through this battle—day by day, breath by breath. And even when the odds grew insurmountable, Anna remained the embodiment of what it means to be a soldier, a mother, a wife, and a warrior. Her passing is not just a loss to those who loved her but a loss to the veteran community, to the military family, and to everyone who believes in the quiet strength of those who serve. Anna Givens was not only a hero in uniform—she was a hero in life—a woman of courage, faith, and boundless resilience. Anna, we carry your name forward with honor. Your fight, beauty, love, and light will never be forgotten. May your family find peace in your memory, and may your children always know the depth of the love you carried for them. You were and will always be the heart of their world. Rest easy, Anna. ?????

March 20, 2003—a day that altered the course of history and the lives of countless men and women forever. What began as a mission to overthrow a dictator became a war that stretched far beyond battlefields, claiming lives not only in combat but in ways far more insidious. The cost was never just measured in victories or losses, but in the bodies of those who fought and the invisible wounds they carried home. Thousands of American service members died at the hands of an unrelenting enemy, their final moments played out on the scorching streets of Fallujah, the open deserts of Anbar, and the narrow alleyways of Baghdad. Others were taken not by bullets or bombs, but by the toxins that filled the air—the burn pits, the chemical exposures, the depleted uranium—silent killers that took their time, manifesting as cancers, diseases, and illnesses that would claim their victims years after they had left Iraq behind. And then there were those who came home only to find another war waiting for them—the battle within. The war did not end for them when they stepped off the plane; it followed them into sleepless nights, into empty bottles, into the trigger of a gun turned on themselves. More have died by their own hands than ever did in battle, lost to a war that never really let them go. The toll of #OperationIraqiFreedom cannot be counted in military victories or strategic gains, but in the lives that were forever changed, the families shattered, and the echoes of war that refuse to fade. To the brave men and women of OIF ????????

?? History in the Making – Again ?? On June 8, 2025, Janina Simmons will break barriers once more. 1SG Simmons made history as the first African-American woman to earn the Ranger Tab—and now, she’s set to become the first Ranger-qualified female to wear the rank of Sergeant Major! We’ve been following 1SG Simmons for a while, and she never fails to inspire. She embodies resilience, discipline, and sheer determination. A 600+ scorer on the APFT, EIB holder, Boston Marathon finisher, Master’s degree earner—she’s done it all. Air Assault. Airborne. Drill Sergeant. She’s the definition of a soldier’s soldier. But here’s where it gets even more remarkable… In September 2023, 1SG Simmons was diagnosed with #LungCancer —an unexpected diagnosis for a top-tier athlete in her mid-thirties. It started with lumps near her groin and legs, leading to a biopsy that confirmed cancer. As if that weren’t enough, the low-grade tumor metastasized into her lymph nodes and as a result she is back in for her second round of cancer treatments. And yet, she refuses to let cancer hold her back. Still running forward, driving on. She keeps pushing forward, proving that adversity is no match for an unbreakable spirit. ?? “PUT IN THE WORK” - 1SG Janina Simmons ?? #EndCancer #RLTW #JaninaEffect #ArmyStrong #WomensHistoryMonth

Honoring and Remembering Army Ranger, SFC Matthew Small, and his legacy of Valor and Love, 14 MARCH 2023. Today marks two years since the world lost Army Ranger, Matt Small, a warrior, a leader, a devoted husband, and a father of seven. At just 41 years old, he fought his final battle against peritoneal mesothelioma, a rare and unforgiving cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. The illness took him quickly, but his legacy, forged over 16 years of service, nearly a dozen deployments, and seven beautiful children will never fade. Matt's journey began in January 2007 when he enlisted in the Army, dedicating his life to the 75th Ranger Regiment. A Ranger through and through, he climbed the ranks to E-7, becoming an instructor, a mentor, and a man whom every Ranger admired. His impact was felt across training fields, deployment zones, and within the hearts of those who served alongside him. He was a leader not just by rank but by example, the kind of man who inspired fierce loyalty and deep respect. His passing left a void that words cannot fill, a heartbreak shared by his Ranger brothers who continue to carry his memory forward. Fate brought Matt together with his soulmate, Mary-Margaret. In 2010, they exchanged vows, embarking on a journey that would withstand years of separation, sacrifice, and resilience. Over 13 years, amidst 10 deployments, they built a family rooted in love and strength, welcoming seven beautiful children into the world. Their life was a testament to the unbreakable spirit of military families—always moving, always adjusting, always holding on. Perhaps the greatest blessing in Matt’s final days was the birth of his youngest child, a little girl born on his birthday - March 4th. In the face of immense suffering, he found solace in holding her, cherishing those last ten days with the new life he had helped bring into the world, al the while surrounded by his family. It was a gift of immeasurable worth, a moment of love that not even cancer could take away. Today, as we remember SFC Matthew David Small, we honor his service, the incredible life he lived, the husband and father he is, and the sacrifices he has made for our beloved nation. Rest easy, Ranger. #RLTW

On this K9 Veterans Day, we honor the remarkable bond between Navy Special Operations dog handler, Command Master Chief (retired) William "Billy" Clark, and his steadfast working dog, Aks. Their journey is a testament to courage, resilience, and the unbreakable connection between a handler and his canine partner. The tragic events of September 11, 2001, ignited his desire to take a more active role in the impending conflict. Determined to work with military dogs—a passion since childhood—Billy found himself at the Navy Master-At-Arms school, where he excelled in his training and earned a coveted position as a dog handler. Billy and Aks would deploy many times to nations across the Middle East, but the night that defined their legacy was December 4, 2007 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Assigned to a mission targeting a high-level Taliban commander, the team faced immediate gunfire upon landing. Amidst the chaos, Billy directed Aks into a hostile building. Inside, Aks neutralized threats, including two armed combatants, showcasing his exceptional training and bravery. Tragically, during the operation, Aks sustained a severe head injury from enemy fire. Despite his wounds, he attempted to continue his duties, embodying unwavering dedication. Billy, risking his own life, rescued Aks under heavy fire, demonstrating the profound bond between handler and dog. Thanks to the swift medical intervention by Billy and fellow medics, Aks survived, though he lost vision in one eye and was subsequently retired from active duty. For their heroism, Aks was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor and a Purple Heart. Despite being diagnosed with stage III colon cancer at 37 years old, Billy continued to remain committed to serving others, advocating for military working dogs and early cancer detection. His journey with Aks exemplifies the extraordinary bond between handlers and their canine partners, highlighting their indispensable role in military operations. As we observe #K9VeteransDay we honor the legacy of teams like Billy and Aks, whose courage and dedication continue to inspire!

Life changed forever for this young Iraq War veteran, Austin Wampler, in April 2021 when, at just 36 years old, he was diagnosed with Stage IV #RenalCellCarcinoma What started as a small lump on his collarbone quickly unraveled into a devastating reality—tumors in his left kidney, pancreas, multiple lymph nodes, and even the head of his femur... a sporadic, fast-progressing cancer for such a young, healthy guy. Doctors moved fast, operating on his leg to prevent fractures, reinforcing it with a metal plate and bone cement. He faced the battle head-on, undergoing immunotherapy, radiation, and countless treatments—fighting with everything he had. For 18 months, there was hope. The disease was under control. But then, the treatments stopped working. Three failed immunotherapy drugs. Tumors growing unchecked. Unrelenting, uncontrollable pain. Despite a relentless regimen of fentanyl, ketamine, lidocaine, methadone, dilaudid, muscle relaxers, and nerve medications, nothing has fully eased his suffering. The pain has stolen so much from him—his ability to enjoy life, his passions, and precious moments with his family... despite all of this, Austin is still smiling. For over two months, Austin has been unable to do what he loves most—being the incredible dad he’s always been to his three children: Benjamin, Graham, and Austyn. Setbacks and unimaginable challenges have marked Austin's journey, but through it all, he and his family have held onto faith, resilience, and hope. As he enters hospice care, the focus shifts to comfort, love, and creating as many cherished moments as possible... while the search for lifesaving treatment continues. Through all this, Austin has remained brave, determined, and full of love. His wife, Jacquelyn and their three young children have been by his side every step of the way, holding onto faith and trusting in God’s plan. Now, they need us. They need our prayers, support, and love more than ever. Let’s rally around the Wampler family—whether through meals, financial support, or simply spreading the word. A MealTrain has been set up to support Austin, Jacquelyn, and their family, where monetary donations can be made, food ordered, and gift cards sent to assist in removing some of the burden the family faces. ?? https://lnkd.in/eWz3_nKX Keep fighting, Austin! #WamplerStrong ??

SFC Carmen Joseph DePaulo III—“CJ” to those who knew and loved him—was a man of unwavering dedication. He answered the call to serve in his mid-twenties, joining the 25th Infantry Division in Hawaii before setting his sights on becoming one of the Army’s elite. In December 2014, after completing the grueling Special Forces Assessment and Selection course, CJ earned the coveted #GreenBeret - stepping into his role as the Special Forces medic for ODA 3314, a detachment within the 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) - US Army CJ deployed to Chad in 2016, and upon returning to Fort Bragg, he met Abigail. The connection was immediate, and the two became inseparable. As they built their life together, CJ deployed twice more to Africa—Arlit, Niger, in both 2017 and 2018. Each time, he returned home safely. But not all battles are fought on distant soil. After his final deployment, CJ began experiencing persistent gastrointestinal issues—frequent bouts of diarrhea, stomach pain, and an increasing sense that something was wrong. A 33-year-old special operator in peak physical condition, with no family history of colon cancer, he was met with dismissive reassurances: “Eat more fiber,” “It’s probably stress,” or “It’s just hemorrhoids.” But CJ and Abigail knew better. They pushed for answers. It took eight months to see a specialist at Womack Army Medical Center.? When he was finally seen, his concerns were brushed aside.? No physical exam. Just another wait—ten more weeks for a colonoscopy.? As CJ’s symptoms worsened, he and Abigail sought care off-post.? Within weeks, they had their answer. On September 11, 2019—the day after his 34th birthday—CJ was diagnosed with late-stage III #ColonCancer - The diagnosis made no sense. For too long, we thought CJ’s case was an anomaly... We were wrong. Today, CJ’s legacy is not just in the memories of those who loved him, but in the lives his story will continue to save. Because of CJ, other service members experiencing unexplained symptoms are demanding answers. Because of CJ, more young soldiers are getting screened for cancers once thought to be rare in their demographic. Because of CJ, research into toxic exposures beyond burn pits is expanding, bringing long-overdue awareness to the hidden threats that have taken so many before their time. His fight did not end on March 6, 2021. His story is saving lives and his legacy lives on. Rest easy, CJ. You are not forgotten. Learn more about risks, early warning signs and prevention at www.HunterSeven.org/CRC

This #WorldBookDay, we spotlight 12 influential books that tackle mental health, physical wellness, and leadership—specifically for military veterans. From understanding personal trauma to taking charge of your health, preventing cancer, breaking down addiction, and sharpening leadership skills, these reads offer real-world tools to navigate life after service. Check out our list below and let us know which books you've read, what your thoughts are, and what should be added to the list! Because knowledge isn’t just power—it’s resilience, strength, and the key to your next mission.

This #WorldBookDay, we spotlight 12 influential books that tackle mental health, physical wellness, and leadership—specifically for military veterans. From understanding personal trauma to taking charge of your health, preventing cancer, breaking down addiction, and sharpening leadership skills, these reads offer real-world tools to navigate life after service. Check out our list below and let us know which books you've read, what your thoughts are, and what should be added to the list! Because knowledge isn’t just power—it’s resilience, strength, and the key to your next mission.

To MEAT or Not to MEAT - Debunking the Dangers of Red Meat ?? Red meat has been the healthcare world’s favorite villain for as long as I can remember. It's been blamed for everything from high cholesterol to heart disease and even digestive issues, specifically #ColonCancer - In response, health initiatives across the U.S. have pushed to phase red meat out of recommended diets. But here’s the kicker—this has led to some unintended health consequences. The truth is, red meat is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s packed with bioavailable protein, essential micronutrients, and amino acids that many diets lack, including iron, zinc, creatine, carnosine, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are especially critical for young women, pregnant women, and children. But here’s where things get messy... What should you limit (or avoid altogether)? ?? Highly Processed Meats: - Sausages (hot dogs, chorizo, salami) - Ham (cured, smoked) - Deli meats (bologna, pastrami) - Pepperoni (cured) - Spam (canned, processed pork) - Beef jerky - Bacon (yep, that crispy, delicious menace) ?? Why the Red Flag? Nitrates Nitrates and nitrites are preservatives that keep processed meats looking fresh and bacteria-free. They do this by preventing bacterial growth (like botulism), preserving that red/pink color, and giving cured meats their signature flavor. The two most common ones are sodium nitrate (NaNO?) and Sodium Nitrite (NaNO?). The problem starts when these compounds hit your digestive system: Oral bacteria and stomach acid convert nitrates into nitrites. Once in the stomach’s acidic environment, nitrites react with amines (from proteins) to form nitrosamines—aka known carcinogens (The science behind it is pretty cool). Smoking meat for long periods at high temperatures adds another layer of danger, as carcinogens from the smoke can bind to the meat. The longer and hotter the smoking process, the more harmful hydrocarbons and amines form. ?? Our take from the 'Healthcare Provider' perspective: It’s been years since we’ve bought meat from chain grocery stores. Instead, we stick to our local butcher, where the meat is so fresh it’s practically purple. Why? Because it’s free of artificial preservatives, retains more essential nutrients, and hasn’t been sitting around oxidizing for who-knows-how-long. But the biggest perk? Freshly harvested meat has better fat quality—healthier fatty acids and a more balanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, essential for brain and heart health. So, the bottom line? Red meat isn’t the enemy - Highly processed meats are. Choose wisely, eat mindfully, and if possible, go local. Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you.