From Corpsman to Advocate.
Troy Ulshoeffer served his country for 20 years as a U.S. Navy Corpsman. After struggling with PTSD, addiction, and profound loss, he found healing through ayahuasca—and dedicated his life to ensuring other veterans have access to the same transformation.
A story of service, struggle, healing, and renewed purpose.
From Darkness to Light
Troy's journey is one that many veterans know intimately: dedicated service to country, followed by the invisible wounds of war that continue long after the uniform comes off. His path from the depths of PTSD and addiction to becoming a leading advocate for plant medicine therapy demonstrates the profound healing possible when traditional medicine fails.
20 Years of Service
Dedicated his life to healing others as a Navy Corpsman
Personal Crisis
Struggled with PTSD, addiction, and profound loss
Transformation
Found healing through ayahuasca and founded Vines & Valor
A Journey of Healing
Troy's path from service member to veteran advocate, marked by struggle, surrender, and profound transformation.
2003 - 2023
20 Years of Service- U.S. Navy Corpsman
- Military Medicine
- Veteran Care
Troy served his country with honor as a Navy Corpsman for two decades, providing medical care to fellow service members. His commitment to healing and service was forged in the crucible of military life.
April 2023
Transition- Medical Retirement
- Identity Crisis
- PTSD Symptoms
After 20 years of service, Troy medically retired from the Navy. The transition from military to civilian life brought intense struggles with PTSD, substance abuse, and a profound loss of identity and purpose.
June 2023
Loss & Grief- Mother's Passing
- Deepening Crisis
- Isolation
The loss of his mother compounded Troy's struggles. Grief, trauma, and addiction pulled him deeper into darkness. He found himself isolated, disconnected, and searching desperately for a way forward.
December 2023
Rock Bottom- Crisis Point
- Surrender
- Seeking Help
Troy hit his lowest point. The pain of PTSD, the weight of grief, and the grip of addiction became unbearable. In this moment of complete surrender, he made the decision to seek healing through plant medicine.
January 2024
Transformation- First Ayahuasca Retreat
- Breakthrough
- Healing Begins
Troy attended his first ayahuasca retreat. Over six ceremonies in six days, he experienced profound healing, reconnection with himself, and a renewed sense of purpose. The medicine showed him a path forward.
2025 - Present
Advocacy & Service- Capitol Hill Testimony
- Founding Vines & Valor
- Veteran Advocacy
Transformed by his experience, Troy became a passionate advocate for veteran access to plant medicine. He founded Vines & Valor, testified before lawmakers on Capitol Hill, and dedicated his life to ensuring other veterans have access to the same healing he found.
I was blessed to find healing when I needed it most. Now, my mission is to ensure that no veteran faces the darkness I faced without access to this sacred medicine. Every veteran deserves the chance to heal, to reclaim their life, and to find peace.
Advocacy in Action
Capitol Hill Testimony
Troy has been invited to testify before lawmakers on Capitol Hill about the potential of psychedelic therapy for veterans. His powerful testimony brings the lived experience of veterans to the forefront of policy discussions.
Vines & Valor Foundation
Founded in 2025, Vines & Valor is Troy's commitment to action. The organization provides grants for veterans to attend ayahuasca retreats, ensuring that financial barriers never prevent healing.
Veteran-Led, Veteran-Focused
As a veteran who has walked the path from crisis to healing, Troy brings authenticity, empathy, and deep understanding to this work. Vines & Valor is not just an organization—it's a lifeline, created by a veteran for veterans.