Eric Labine, MWO (Retd)

Eric Labine, MWO (Retd)

I was released from the military on a medical discharge in 2010, after 20 years of service. I wound up no longer doing any team or individual sports due to my anxiety, PTSD, and physical injuries.

Then I heard about Soldier On and applied to become a member.  I had always wanted to try archery and in the fall I tried it out at a big box store. I enjoyed the concentration and “getting into the zone” part of archery. I applied for a grant and was able to purchase my own full kit (PSE Stinger Max Pro).

Around the same time, Shannon Nowell, the Regional Coordinator for NB/PEI, mentioned to me that Soldier On would be hosting an introduction to archery at the Atlantic Archery Centre in Fredericton at the end of November. At first, I did not know what to expect, and felt uncertain if I would even attend due to the fact that I have been mostly self-isolating, and keeping away from people I do not know.

After talking about it with my spouse, I decided to go and to attend with an open mind. I was pleasantly surprised that nobody passed judgment or looked at me any differently. We were all there from Soldier On with physical and/or mental injuries. I would definitely like to continue attending Soldier On events, and I encourage any former or serving CAF member who has any kind of disability to get in touch with Soldier On.  

Be Safe and Soldier On!

Poirier Soldiers On

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