*A note to the reader: We will be profiling CSC employees who have been diagnosed with workplace mental health injuries, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, in next month’s edition of Let’s Talk Express. We hope this will begin an open dialogue about this important topic at CSC.
On March 6th, 2016, CSC staff in the Pacific Region were proud to hold their first annual 5km Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) run/walk for local first responders and the general community. The event took place in Abbotsford, British Columbia at Mill Lake Park and was attended by 200 participants who committed to “breaking the silence” around PTSD by increasing awareness of it.
First responders are frontline workers who put their lives on the line to protect others. However, this is often done at the expense of their own emotional, mental, and physical well-being. First responders can experience situations that are harsh, violent, and life threatening, often leading to PTSD.
The idea to host this event came from the Headstarter Initiative whereby Pacific Institution CX Brenda Brennan passionately gained the support of CSC management, employees, and unions alike. The event was well attended by CSC employees, their family and friends, and several other first responder agencies such as local police officers, firefighters, and BC Ambulance Services.
Congratulations are offered to the top three runners: Craig Frizzle, Nathan Etsell, and Attila Turi. Well done to these individuals, as well as all other runners including many children who participated. Every registered participant received a beautiful run-specific CSC challenge coin.
Special thanks go out to Brenda Brennan and the organizing committee, Apollo Fitness for leading a warm up to get everyone ready to run or walk, and Jason Warner for the photography. We would also like to thank Original Joe’s in Langley for donating post- race food for everyone to enjoy. And last but not least, thank you to all the volunteers who came out to help make this event a success. We look forward to this event in years to come.
