WOW!!! That is all that I can say about last week’s presentation with Vince Savoia from Heroes are Human. Vince, you brought light to the important topic of PTSD and mental health. Sharing your story gives others the hope and tools that are required to make a positive impact on the lives of so many First Responders and their families. Thank you.
Vince shared his story with heart, compassion, and honesty. After sharing his journey, which started with a call as a paramedic on January 27, 1988, he broke down different types of stress and its reactions. Vince spoke to the organizational threats—one of which still includes under reporting of struggling due to possible affects to career. Stats on mental health and suicides are being under-reported and need to be addressed immediately.
One point that struck home to me was the importance of having a support network. Just as Kim Mills from She is Fierce spoke about last week, resiliency is found through community. With reference to community and family support, I am thankful to Vince’s wife of more than 25 years who is still his strongest supporter.
An international speaker, Vince is an active coach who offers detailed training programs which include MANNERS – Psychological First Aid. Training programs are offered through The Tema Conter Trust: Heroes are Human. This foundation also offers more than $30, 000 in scholarships. More details on these opportunities can be found on the website.
Mr. Savoia spoke for 2 hours and had his audience engaged and focused on his important message.
We hope to see you at the final session in this series on January 28th when Jody Mitic, Unflinching; the making of a Canadian Sniper takes the stage. Register here for this session. An email with joining instructions will be sent to you once you have registered.
We wish to take this opportunity to thank Lt Col Bishop who introduced Mr. Savoia and represented Military Families in her role as the Deputy Director to Military Family Services.
In closing, last night 15 participants were Blessed to be part of this intimate evening with Vince Savoia, Executive Director of The Tema Conter Trust – Heroes are Human. The beauty of the virtual presentation is that it allowed participants to gain valuable and pertinent information in a safe environment. As Military Family Resource Centres, if we impact one person positively, the session is considered a success. Last night Vince touched the lives of 15 participants to equate to a phenomenal success. Thank you, Mr. Savoia!
About True Patriot Love Foundation
True Patriot Love Foundation (TPL) is a national charity that honours the sacrifices of members of the Canadian Armed Forces, veterans, and their families in both times of peace and conflict. TPL funds unique programs and innovative research in the areas of family health and support, physical health and rehabilitation, mental health and well being, and research and innovation. TPL is also committed to bridging the gap between military and civilian communities, hosting multinational symposiums and organizing ambitious global expeditions. Since 2009, True Patriot Love has committed more than $15.1 million to support military charities and research across Canada. For more information, visit www.truepatriotlove.com.
This post was written by PEI MFRC Virtual Program Coordinator, Margaret Mackenzie.
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