Melissa Sias

Melissa Anne Sias (Tybor), born December 25, 1979 in Amsterdam, NY. A proud mother of two, United States Marine Corps Veteran-Motor Transport Operator-2x MST Survivor/Advocate, retired chef/restaurant manager, Artist and small business owner. A long time California transplant who spent years away on active duty, traveling the country, parts of the world, balancing her career, and raising her children. She returned to Upstate New York while juggling divorce, bi-coastal parenting, and disability. Piloting through extreme adversities, she began experimenting with new and holistic ingredients for her “therapy salad”. This included traditional methods, as well as equine and writing therapies. It was at this time she discovered the pivotal and life saving role that painting and mixed media would play in her life, therein adding art therapy to her regiment. She now utilizes a combination of these mediums and techniques as a healthy way to communicate and ground herself through creative expression; while she navigates the obstacles and complexities that accompany the challenges and limitations related to physical and mental disabilities. Melissa now spends her days creating art at home, with her favorite group, Art4Vets, and attending Veterans Writing Workshops. She is a new small business owner selling her art and creative works. As well as donating pieces to charitable organizations supporting veterans and persons with chronic illnesses. She is a full time artist, and 100% service connected disabled veteran. She is a passionate advocate speaking out about the misunderstood and unacceptable stigmas relating to the disabled, MST survivors, complex PTSD, adult diagnosed ADHD, suicide prevention, addiction/sobriety/recovery, and the importance of providing proper care, programs, treatment and support-mentally and physically, within our veteran community.