WTC First Responder Sails for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness
In an effort to increase awareness of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) amongst 9/11 First Responders and Military Veterans, Sail4Sanity founder Anthony Reyes will sail from the Bahamas to the Chesapeake Bay in April, 2016.
PAWLING, N.Y., March 31, 2016 /PRNewswire-iReach/ — Unlike other physical ailments, PTSD can be difficult to diagnose because sufferers may want to avoid talking about the topic and the issues associated with it. Moreover, those that suffer from PTSD may delay or forgo treatment, because of the stigma of having a mental disorder. PTSD sufferers often believe that they can handle the situation, and that it will get better on its own. Anthony, a retired member of the New York City Police Department who responded to the attacks on the World Trade Center, and became injured during the collapse of the South Tower, uses sailing as a positive way to cope with PTSD, and wants to help other 9/11 First Responders and Military Veterans find their inner peace through sailing. “For a long time I personally refused to accept the fact that I was traumatized by the events of 9/11. I often attributed my inability to sleep as a busy mind, and actively avoided movies with people jumping off buildings, or buildings collapsing. Through sailing I began to deal with my PTSD, and use it as a positive outlet” states Anthony Reyes, retired NYPD Detective and Founder of Sail4Sanity.
Anthony, along with his friend Archie, will sail from Turtle Cay Bahamas, across the Gulf Stream current, through the Straits of Florida aboard the sailing vessel Slip Away. Weather permitting, they will then continue north offshore to Chesapeake, stopping at several marinas along the way to discuss PTSD. You can follow their trip online at sail4sanity.org.
About Sail4Sanity
Sail4Sanity is a NYS Non-Profit organization designed to assist 9/11 First Responders and Military Veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) through sailing and related activities. Sail4Sanity teaches 9/11 First Responders and Military Veterans to sail, and how to do minor repairs. By engaging in these activities, our heroes participate in a calming hobby that teaches them to focus, and allows them to engage in conversations with other survivors, which can help with healing and comfort.
For more information please visit www.sail4sanity.org
