Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and what I have learned
I am not a Psychologist. My knowledge of PTSD was minimal until Stiggy’s Dogs. I did however, do a lot of ‘research’ during my *set up* phase. I read everything I could and felt I had a good grip on how we would tailor our program to fit the needs. Oh the memory alone right now makes me smile my naivety…..
Nothing could prepare me for the last year, no books, articles or letters. I actually lived it. I would argue that I understand PTSD better than most Physiologist. I actually believe that I now have PTSD from what I have learned….
I begin with the gratitude and respect that I hold for these Veterans…the ones in our Stiggy’s family, the countless I have talked /interviewed with, and the numerous emails. The open honest conversations we have had. The raw emotions of the reality of your personal lives. The strength it takes on a daily basis, the growth, the courage you show. True warriors and heroes that they are. And trust me, if I shared a fraction of the ‘stories’ I know….you would be in tears, in shock and *changed*. As our Veterans are, as I am, and their families.