About Us
Mission & Vision
SEA WAVES, a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization, is committed to empowering the military community by focusing on proactive wellness and preventative approaches to disordered eating. Our mission is to deliver accessible prevention strategies, comprehensive education, and meaningful connections that support individual wellness before disordered eating develops into a diagnosed disorder. We're dedicated to pioneering efforts that close the gaps in care, ensuring no one in or connected to our military community faces these challenges alone.
We envision a future where our community is not only informed and engaged but also proactive in both preventing and addressing disordered eating as part of a broader wellness strategy. Our aim is to foster open discussions, provide comprehensive support, and create a stigma-free environment. Together, we're working towards a future where everyone has the knowledge, resources, and support needed for holistic wellness, preventing the escalation of disordered eating.
Team Members
About our Founder
Leah Stiles is a retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist and the Founder and Executive Director of SEA WAVES. After two decades of military service, she transformed her lived experience with an eating disorder into a powerful platform for education, prevention, advocacy, and support within the military community.
A recognized leader in military mental health reform, Leah develops programs that challenge stigma, promote early intervention, and connect service members, veterans, and families with life-saving resources. Her work centers on the critical intersection between eating disorders, suicide prevention, and readiness—issues too often overlooked in military culture.
Leah is the author of the forthcoming book Battle Scars & Body Wars: A Personal and Professional Journey Shining a Light on Eating Disorders in the Military and a sought-after keynote speaker who brings her story to life on national stages.
Leah’s mission is clear: to shine a light on what’s been hidden for too long and ensure that every service member, veteran, and family has access to the care and understanding they deserve. Through SEA WAVES and her advocacy, she carries forward one message above all: Need a light? Be a light.
Gallery
Do you have questions or need support? Don’t hesitate to reach out – our team is here to help and would love to hear from you!