Our Story

At Operation Path Forward (OPF), we believe in the power of nature, community, and holistic healing to restore and uplift those who have sacrificed for our nation. Founded by Timothy and Tabitha DeMaio, OPF is a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to supporting Active Duty military, Veterans, and First Responders through curated care packages and the development of a world-class wilderness retreat in Montana.

Tim and Tabitha’s journey is one of resilience, service, and transformation. With a shared passion for adventure and a love of the outdoors, they have explored over 77 countries combined, always chasing the thrill of discovery. Their paths crossed in Athens, Greece, in 2019 when Tim was operating out of the Embassy, while Tabitha, a world-traveling international school teacher, was working in Athens. However, life’s greatest challenges were yet to come.

After sustaining profound injuries overseas, Tim and Tabitha moved back stateside, facing uncertainty about their future. Tim battled traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and post-traumatic stress injuries (PTSI), struggling to find the right path toward healing. Refusing to give up, Tabitha dedicated herself to researching treatments, and sending Tim to specialists all over exploring every possible avenue, from conventional medicine to holistic therapies until she finally discovered methods that worked. Just when life seemed to be stabilizing, another battle began.

Two months after giving birth to their son, Liam-Maverick, Tabitha was diagnosed with an aggressive Stage 4 cancer. With a newborn, a toddler, and a fight for survival ahead, they knew they had to find meaning, purpose, and a way to give back, not just for themselves, but for the countless others facing uncertainty, pain, and invisible battles. From their personal struggles with TBI, PTSI, and cancer, they saw firsthand the gaps in support, resources, and healing opportunities for those who serve.

Out of these challenges, Operation Path Forward was born. OPF exists to fill the gaps in support, healing, and community for those who serve. Our mission is twofold: to provide curated care packages that bring relief and connection to Active Duty military, Veterans, and First Responders, and to develop a premier wilderness retreat in Montana, where heroes can heal through adventure, nature, and holistic therapies.

We believe in the restorative power of the outdoors, and our retreat will provide opportunities for back-country hiking, kayaking, hunting, and fireside chats, fostering connection and resilience. Alongside these activities, we will offer holistic healing programs, including yoga, meditation, breath work, sound therapy, hyperbaric chamber sessions, IV therapy, sports massage, and red-light therapy—all designed to help warriors regain strength, clarity, and peace.

For too many heroes, life after service is filled with uncertainty, stress, and silent struggles. Whether it’s the scars of combat, the pressures of the job, or the weight of an unexpected diagnosis, the path forward can feel impossible. We refuse to let our warriors fight alone. Through Operation Path Forward, we are creating a movement—one that fosters community, healing, and renewed purpose for those who have given so much. No hero should feel forgotten, and no warrior should have to fight their battles alone.

If you believe in our mission, we invite you to be part of it. Whether through donations, partnerships, or spreading the word, every action helps us build a future where healing is accessible, adventure is endless, and our warriors always have a path forward.

📩 For more information or to support OPF, contact us at support@OperationPathForward.org.