Veteran’s Journey to Advocate for Others
After enduring a significant brain injury while serving, Lindsay Gutierrez took it upon herself to aid other veterans in need. Having spent six years in the US Air Force, she became a dual organ donor, a rare title held by only 280 individuals in the country who have donated two organs to save lives. Currently, she is featured in the 2026 Pinup for Vets Fundraiser Calendar which highlights the stories of 13 female veterans photographed in a vintage style.
Gutierrez expressed, “This calendar gives female veterans a platform to display both their outer and inner beauty, along with their remarkable accomplishments.”
Being a veteran, organ donor, and social worker, Gutierrez felt drawn to the project as it aligned perfectly with her current journey. Founded by Gina Elise in 2006, this nonprofit aims to support hospitalized and deployed troops through the sale of calendars featuring veteran models, inspired by the likes of actress Betty Grable.
Veterinary Pinup has successfully raised over $120,000 for new rehabilitation equipment in veteran hospitals across the nation. The organization’s ambassadors have personally visited over 20,000 veterans, providing gifts of gratitude.
The calendar’s proceeds will directly benefit VA Hospitals as they facilitate visits to sick and injured veterans, deliver care packages to deployed military personnel, and provide support for homeless veterans.
For Gutierrez, participating extends beyond mere modeling. She hopes to elevate awareness around organ donation. “This opportunity allows me to give back to the veteran community, something that’s crucial to me,” she stated. “Even after discharge, my service continues, and this role lets me remain connected to fellow veterans.”
Gutierrez has faced challenges on her path. Originally from Maryland, she moved to California in 2009, harboring dreams of becoming a special effects makeup artist. Yet, she encountered several hurdles that hindered her communication and confidence.
“Joining the military was something I had considered for a while, especially influenced by my grandfathers who both served. Eventually, I decided to take that leap,” she recalled.
In 2010, she enlisted in the US Air Force, serving in security forces stationed at RAF Lakenheath in the UK and carrying out two deployments. However, her life dramatically shifted in 2014 during a mission in Djibouti when she suffered a traumatic brain injury from a vehicle rollover. Diagnosed years later, the revelation opened doors for her healing journey.
Through this tumultuous time, Gutierrez eventually found her purpose in donating organs. In 2022, informed by her health status, she donated a kidney to a fellow veteran, followed by a liver donation in 2024. She illustrates that the ultimate act of service is to save lives, emphasizing that it’s all a part of continuing her commitment to her fellow veterans.
Today, Gutierrez leads what she describes as a “normal” life, having recently climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. She advocates for self-care, not just for herself but for fellow veterans, encouraging everyone to engage in acts of kindness, whether through financial contributions or personal support. Her journey illustrates the profound impact of giving back, and the ripple effect it can have on many lives.
