Local retired veteran organizing support group for military personnel struggling with addiction, anger issues, occupational stress injury (OSI) and post traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD).

“The group is anonymous. What is said at the meeting will stay at the meeting,” explains group organizer Paul Dumas.

A veteran himself, Mr. Dumas is creating the support group for current and retired military personnel to share their experiences and help each other.

Mr. Dumas explains, “we have a couple of other veterans who are there to work with people.”

During his 20-year career Mr. Dumas spent time as an infanteer, a supply tech and in the dental core. He also spent time overseas serving in Palestine in 1962.

He said he felt compelled to start a group after reading about the Burlington father who kidnapped his son in May from CFB Petawawa to get him help for PTSD.

“If there is a need for it we could have Romeo Dallaire talk. He still struggles with it (PTSD),” said Mr. Dumas.

At this point in time Mr. Dumas hasn’t talked with the base, he would like the group to be anonymous and autonomous. He stresses the group will be strictly confidential, last names will not be used.

The meeting is run similar to a 12-step group. Each meeting a topic would be decided on and attendees would have the opportunity comment, share or pass.

“It is so much easier to open up to someone who isn’t going to condemn you,” noted Mr. Dumas, adding, “you won’t be judged about what’s bothering you.”

Topics will be decided by members of the group at each meeting.

The location is to be determined. For more information about the support group call Mr. Dumas at 613-735-2691 and leave a message.

Cyndi Mills is a Daily Observer multimedia journalist

cyndi.mills@sunmedia.ca