Brandi L. Benson

Brandi L. Benson is a U.S. Army veteran, cancer survivor, author, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate whose story of survival has positioned her as a leading voice in cancer advocacy and veteran wellness. Benson was 24 and a few months into her first deployment when she was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, possibly linked to toxic exposure during her service.

Facing a 15 percent chance of survival and a prognosis of eight to 12 months, Benson achieved full recovery and has remained in remission. Her journey is detailed in her memoir, "The Enemy Inside Me," which recounts her experience battling Ewing sarcoma during her deployment to Iraq. Benson underwent 17 cycles of chemotherapy, completing more than 100 rounds, had her inner muscle removed, and now bears a two-foot scar. Through her book, she provides strategies and resources for survivors, their loved ones, and anyone facing adversity to improve mental health and resilience. She is also the co-author of "The Art of Being Broken - How Storytelling Saves Lives" with Kevin Hines, contributing to survivorship literature.

As an Iraq War veteran and author, Benson has received recognition from the Sarcoma Foundation of America. She has been honored with the Iconic Women Creating a Better World for All Award at the Women Economic Forum in India. Benson was formally invited to the White House alongside the HunterSeven Foundation to witness the enactment of the PACT Act, legislation expanding VA healthcare benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances. Her work has been featured on ABC, NBC, CNN, Fox, CW, and in the New York Journal.

Through speaking engagements and her signature topic, "Overcoming The Enemy Inside You," Benson encourages audiences to pursue physical and mental therapy to take charge of their healing and wellness. Her talks, including "There Are Miracles Every Day, Why Can't You Be One?" and "Rising Above," address allyship, vulnerability, workplace reintegration after illness, and the need to reshape the survivorship narrative. Benson holds a BA in journalism and mass communications from Ashford University and an MFA in writing from the Savannah College of Art and Design.

After publishing her memoir, Benson established the Brandi L. Benson Wellness Initiative to support mental health and wellness programs. She is active in organizations such as The Livestrong Foundation, volunteers with individuals diagnosed with and recovering from cancer, and serves as a board member for the Future Minds Literacy program and the Ella Foundation, which supports those affected by violence, mental illness, and the criminal justice system. Benson is also the founder and CEO of Resume-Advantage, an employment service for civilians and transitioning military veterans. Her career spans authorship, advocacy, entrepreneurship, and public speaking, contributing to ongoing conversations about cancer survivorship, veteran health, and mental wellness.