Please support me as I participate in Canada Army Run and raise funds for Soldier On an incredible initiative that helps those who have been physically or mentally affected by service.  They offer rehabilitation services, psychological services and excersise and sports recovery services.  I think this charity is an increidble resources for so many reasonse; I have and have had family and friends who have served both in the Canadian and American Army and I cannot be prouder of all of them for risking their lives to give us the safety and pride of living where we live.  I also think this organization helps destigmatize the labels that come with dealing with mental health issues and through the use of physical fitness they have helped so many and first hand I know the effects of what Post Traumatic Stress can do to someone.

I suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and know the importance of seeking help and guidance through any recovery process.  I have hid my past or chosen to share it with only certain people out of fear but in seeing what this charity does I feel it's important to talk and destigmatize mental health in general.  At age 19 I was the victim of a sexual assault and at age 26 I was the victim of a violent assault/mugging in my own neighbourhood.  I lost my sense of security and trust and for a long time felt like I lost myself.  My physical wounds healed but emotionally I was broken and suffered significant nightmares and flashbacks and on many days just wanted to give up.  I was lucky to have the friends and family I have who helped me find the support and resources I needed to face this.  Through talking and physical fitness I was able to return to my life and although I may always experience certain triggers I have found running and physical fitness to be a huge help in letting me face these issues.  I have good days and bad days and often times many people don't understand what I am going through as they dont know what it feels like which is why it is so important to share and help others see that there is always a reason to smile and keep facing any challenge that may be infront of you.  I look at my story and can only imagine the challenges that these soldiers face with the risks they have put on themselves.

Soldiers On helps serving memebers and vetrens overcome both physical and mental health through physical fitness.  Although Soldier On events are primarily focused on sport or other physically challenging activities, promoting an active lifestyle is only part of the mission.  Soldier On not only supplies members with equipment and coaches to meet their needs, they also provide members with a safe environment to challenge themselves to get inspired in ways that they may not have thought possible.This re-introduction to an active lifestyle provides the member with opportunities to develop new skills, build confidence in their abilities and meet peers with similar challenges. Many ill and injured members credit Soldier On with helping them to adapt to their new normal, realize their full potential and Soldier On.  

I truly feel this charity is an amazing resource for so many reasons and would appreciate any support you may be able to give.  Just think of all the men and women who have and continue to serve our country and need our help when they face challenges to make sure they are given the proper resources and care needed.  Just think of that coffee or muffin you buy in the morning how much that money could help our injured soldiers.  They serve our country with great pride and it is our time and our duty to give back to them.  Its the best way I can think of to say thank you.