A Sudbury man is doing his part to raise awareness about post-traumatic stress disorder.
Dan Unrau lost his brother, a retired Canadian soldier, to suicide and he is now taking an active role raising awareness about the mental health disorder.
A memorial sits at Unrau’s home in the West End neighbourhood of Greater Sudbury in honour of his brother John.
The 43-year-old Canadian soldier killed himself after a long battle with PTSD upon returning from serving in Afghanistan.
“He told me at Christmas in 2015 he may have injured two children and he couldn't live with himself. And on Canada Day, he ended up taking his life as a cause of PTSD.” said Unrau.
Three years later, Dan wants recognition for his brother's dedication to the country and the suffering he endured in the aftermath of Afghanistan.
“I want to get a street topper for the street that we grew up on in Chelmsford. You know, I believe he fought for our country for 20 years and it's deserved. He has things in Calgary in the museum and in Ottawa.” said Unrau.
Lou Laberge is a long-time friend of the lost soldier and the owner of The Horse Tavern in Chelmsford.
He has a picture of John in better times on the wall. He feels a street recognition sign in the soldier's hometown could help spark conversation about PTSD.
“I would just like for us to be more aware and to get as much info as we can, so that we can get help, and try and help people who suffer from PTSD. Awareness is one of the key things that we got to get out there, so we can talk about it and we can get people help.” said Laberge.
Dan says he is hopeful his brother's service will be honoured with a street recognition sign by the city. He says his brother's battle with PTSD should be talked about in hopes it can make a difference for others.
