Suicide has caused more American casualties than the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. On average, 22 veterans die by suicide every day, which is more than double the civilian rate. The battle for many American heroes continues for years after returning home. Too often these burdens cause our returning warriors depression, anxiety, financial struggles and marriage problems.
Exactly one year ago Patrick Elswick was hiking 500 miles across South Carolina along the Palmetto Trail. His 31-day trek led him beside lakes, over mountain peaks, through thick forests and across Lowcountry swamps. Aside from a few veterans who joined him for a day or two, he walked most of the miles alone, accompanied only by the local wildlife and his thoughts. This journey from the mountains to the sea was extremely personal for Patrick; not because of the solitude, because of the mission. Let me explain.
A marine veteran who served multiple tours in Iraq, Patrick was diagnosed like many other combat veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Having been an avid outdoorsman all his life, he found healing in the outdoors and has now dedicated his life to helping other veterans find the same solace. He lives daily with the pain of losing brothers on the battlefield but losing them on the Homefront jolted him into action.
Patrick serves as President of WLS Foundation, a national organization made up of veterans who have experienced first-hand the devastating consequences of trauma and they are dedicated to improving the lives of our veterans off the battlefield. The hike was his first major event as President of the organization and his mission was two-fold: raise awareness of the staggering fact that 22 veterans a day die by suicide and showcase the healing power of the outdoors.
One of several key programs of the WLS Foundation is non-clinical nature therapy. There is something about nature that is healing to mind and soul. Whether it's the fresh air, the calmness of the forest, the feeling of purpose when learning a new skill, or simply the practice of being present in the moment without real-world distractions, the outdoors can be a powerful place. Of the hundreds of thousands of veterans who are dealing with issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder, many have found the outdoors can not only help them survive, but also thrive during their recovery.
WLS Foundation serves veterans of all branches and of all ages. In addition to nature therapy, their Never Forgotten Program sponsors nursing home visits and meal delivery services. From financial planning to legal services and employment counseling, the Navigation Services Program provides a strong network of partners available to service the individual needs of each veteran. WLS helps to navigate through the system to find the partners to best serve the distinct needs of each veteran, thus providing a greater holistic and person-centered approach to care.
Retired Army Sergeant Major, Mitchell Cole, serves as Chairman of the foundation. “South Carolina was the turning point of the American Revolution and the birthplace of the Civil War. Patriotism runs deep in this state”, he explained, “so placing the headquarters of this national organization in South Carolina made perfect sense.” From paddling and fly fishing to hunting and camping, the outdoor opportunities in the Palmetto State also played a strong role in the organization’s decision to locate here.
Patrick considers his hike across the state a success. The governor declared October as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month, more people are now aware of the foundation and over $30,000 was raised for veteran programs. The biggest success, however, was a letter Patrick received months after the hike. It was a “thank you” letter from a veteran who, after getting his affairs in order, was planning to take his own life. Thankfully he happened upon a community event for the hike and became involved with WLS programs. He has once again found purpose and is not only surviving, but also thriving.
Please visit whenlifesucks.org to donate to this cause and follow them on Instagram and Facebook for up-to-date program information.
