Fueling Our Heroes: The Mission to Transform Veteran and First Responder Health
Every day, across the nation, our veterans and first responders protect and serve. They risk their lives for our safety, putting others first with unparalleled dedication. Yet, when their service ends for the day—or even for a lifetime—too many face a harsh reality: their own health is under siege.
At 98 Octane, we’re on a mission to change that. And we need your help.
The Hidden Health Crisis Among Heroes
Here’s a truth that’s hard to stomach:
78% of veterans and first responders are obese or overweight.
Veterans are dying 20% sooner than civilians, with preventable health issues leading the charge.
Poor nutrition, compounded by stress and lack of education about health, is creating a silent epidemic in our communities.
This isn’t just about numbers—it’s about real lives. It’s about people like Darcy, a 12-year veteran of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, who lost her father to a heart attack at just 52. Determined not to follow the same path, she’s joined our mission to rewrite her health story and inspire others to do the same.
Why Nutrition is the Starting Point
For years, many veterans and first responders believed they could "out-train" a bad diet. But the reality is this: the food we eat fuels every part of our body. From reducing inflammation to improving mental clarity and even easing chronic pain, good nutrition is the foundation of a healthier, more vibrant life.
Tim Wood, a former Navy SEAL who served for 22 years, shared how his chronic pain nearly derailed his life after leaving the service. Once he began changing his eating habits, 90% of his pain disappeared. It wasn’t magic—it was the power of real food.
98 Octane: A Movement for Change
We started with a simple but powerful belief: our heroes deserve better.
We’ve written a book and developed a tech platform to empower veterans and first responders with knowledge and tools for healthy living.
We teach hands-on, affordable nutrition: meals that take 9 minutes to prep, cost $8, and transform lives.
We build community. Our participants aren’t just learning to eat better—they’re finding camaraderie and support, creating a network to lift each other up.
As Darcy puts it, “An army is a group of aligned people with the same mission. That’s what we’re building—a team to multiply the impact and help more people.”
The Bigger Picture
Food isn’t just about calories—it’s a metaphor for empowerment. At 98 Octane, we’re teaching veterans and first responders that they still hold the power to lead, to thrive, and to take control of their lives.
When Tim Wood transitioned out of the SEALs, he faced the daunting loss of structure that had defined his life. Like so many others, he struggled. But with the right tools and support, he rediscovered his strength—starting with something as simple as what he put on his plate.
How You Can Help
Transforming health isn’t a solo mission—it takes a team. Here’s how you can join us:
Donate: Every dollar supports our workshops, resources, and outreach efforts.
Share: Spread the word on social media to help us reach more veterans and first responders.
Partner: Whether you’re a business, a community leader, or an individual, there’s a place for you in this movement.
Together, we can ensure that those who protect us are empowered to protect their health, too.
Let’s Fuel Our Heroes
This isn’t just about veterans and first responders—it’s about all of us. When we stand together to support the health of those who serve, we create stronger families, communities, and futures.
At 98 Octane, we believe our heroes deserve to live long, healthy lives. Will you join us?
Take action today and be part of the mission to fuel our heroes—because their future is worth it.