By EMS1 Staff
EDMONTON, Canada — Three first responders highlighted the burden of PTSD by running a half-marathon in full uniform.
Global News reported that firefighter Jessica LaMer, paramedic Amy Benson and police officer Sylvie Boy ran the 13-mile race in their full uniforms, which included an oxygen tank for LaMer.
“A lot of our brothers and sisters are suffering from PTSD,” Boy said. “The reason why we are wearing the full uniform is we want to run with a load, which is what those guys and gals have to carry every day.”
Boy said although she does not suffer from PTSD, she has seen it firsthand in her colleagues.
“It starts with anger, withdrawal … everything seems impossible to move on. There’s anger. I’ve seen alcoholism.”
The women are raising money for Wounded Warriors, an organization that helps first responders, veterans and military members. They have raised over $11,000.
LaMer’s goal is to remind community members about the struggles that come with being a first responder.
“It’s not supposed to be an easy race. Our brothers and sisters that are suffering from PTSD, it’s not an easy life to live either,” she said.
The three women ran side-by-side the whole time, despite two of the women having no marathon experience.
“We stand together, and we have each other’s backs,” Benson said.
https://www.facebook.com/GlobalEdmonton/videos/10154681498425927/