This episode of the podcast we have Yves Leduc-Butterworth discussing his hard fought lessons on overcoming trauma and becoming an advocate for veterans upon his return from his tour in Afghanistan. As the founder of the Concordia Veterans’ Association and ex president, he believes strongly in the value that veterans bring to the academic community. Currently, Yves is deployed to Latvia on NATO’s Op Reassurance and is a Colour Sergeant with the Canadian Grenadier Guards.
Yves is profoundly candid about his incident, during his tour in Afghanistan, that led to the development of PTSD. His explanation of how trauma can set in and take hold of one’s very character are an important message for anyone currently suffering or for those that may one day be faced with a traumatic situation of their own. He identifies how a traumatic incident for him can be completely different for someone else and that comparing his experiences with those of previous generations of war fighters is a path that can lead to self loathing and feelings being unworthy of help.
We can all learn a great deal from Yves struggle; his openness and candor are the signs of a true leader that is willing to show vulnerability with the hopes of improving the lives of those around him. If you’d like to learn more about Yves’ work and the Concordia Veterans’ Association head to the association’s web site here.
Here are some veteran resources that can make a world of difference if you’re struggling:
Veteran Transition Network – Intense group session work over numerous weekends (best thing I could’ve ever done)
Veterans’ Assistance Service 24/7 –
Call toll-free: 1-800-268-7708
TDD/TTY: 1-800-567-5803
