‘There are so many living in the dark’: veterans advocate
Jenny Migneault is fighting for the rights of soldiers with post-traumatic stress disorder and their families.
An advocate for the rights of Canadian veterans and those who care for them, Migneault made a stop in Prince Albert last week to talk with local families and promote support and advocacy programs for those struggling with PTSD. Migneault has been talking about the new caregiver recognition benefit, which provides a monthly tax-free amount of $1,000 to veterans dealing with injuries related to their service. Migneault said the benefit is a resource for veterans dealing with physical injuries, but it does not address the psychological and emotional impacts of combat, which can affect a veteran’s ability to hold a job and handle everyday responsibilities.
“People might think veterans are well taken care of, but it’s not true,” Migneault told paNOW. “There are so many living in the dark or stuck with the challenges of PTSD.”
Last week Migneault met with members of OSI-CAN, a non-profit organization aimed at helping those in Saskatchewan who struggle with operational stress injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder. Jessilynne Haskins, who runs a support group through OSI-CAN for spouses and families in Prince Albert, said it can be helpful to connect with others who are experiencing the same issues. Their support group meets twice a month during the fall and winter and once a month during the summer.