Rolling Barrage Stops in Neepawa to Raise PTSD Awareness and Support Veterans

The Rolling Barrage is an impactful annual event that travels coast to coast across Canada to raise awareness about PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and to support those affected by it, including veterans, active duty military members, and First Responders. PTSD is a psychological condition that can result from experiencing or witnessing intense traumatic events, and it often affects those who have served in wars, such as veterans of World War II and other conflicts.

Liway Cabrera – Local Journalism Initiative

NAC TV was able to interview Mark Goldade, the Chief Operating Officer of Rolling Barrage and gave a brief background about the organization and their awareness campaign about PTSD. “When you break an arm or you break a leg, you have a visible wound. You go to a hospital, you get fixed up and you walk around with a cast, everyone just accepts you that you’re injured. When you have PTSD, it’s not visible. But it needs to be treated just the same as any other wound.  So treatment is very important. Therapy is important. What we do with with this organization is we encourage that. We make it something that people will talk about and hopefully that helps people getting treated.” said Goldale.  

The Rolling Barrage began making a stop in Neepawa in 2021, with the support of the local community and the Neepawa Legion. Since then, it has become an important event for the town. This year, on August 9th, the Rolling Barrage made its stop at the Neepawa Legion. The community's support was evident, with donations totalling more than $2,000 from the fundraising organized by the Neepawa Legions Ladies Auxiliary and other donations coming from different individuals and organizations. This generous contribution demonstrates the deep commitment of Neepawa to supporting veterans and raising awareness about PTSD.

Through events like the Rolling Barrage, the goal is to continue breaking down the stigma surrounding PTSD, offering support, and ensuring those who serve and protect our communities receive the help they need.