Luke Cyr, originally from Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., spent 12 years with the Canadian Armed Forces, serving in Bosnia and Afghanistan as part of the 3rd Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment. His years in uniform placed him in the midst of heavy combat, experiences that left deep and lasting psychological effects. A certain day in October will never be forgotten:
His story is all too familiar with so many veterans who have served and fought for our country. Regardless of where or when the conflict occurred, often the effects remain with the soldier and feelings of helplessness and isolation take over.
Like so many other veterans who are struggling, Luke needed to find that certain something that could help him better adapt to peacetime surroundings. He began fundraising for mental health:
After reaching his lowest point, Cyr sought support at the Robbie Dean Centre, a facility Founded by Monique Yashinskie offering counselling for those in emotional distress. During his recovery, a friend, Sean Sutherland, introduced him to the Caddie School for Soldiers — a non-profit that helps veterans heal from physical and psychological wounds by training as caddies at Scotland’s St. Andrews Golf Club. Monique and Luke have become very close friends over the years and she recalls fondly meeting with him and his family recently at a fundraising gala:
At that gala The Luke Cyr foundation presented the Robbie Dean Centre with a cheque for $40,000 which was far beyond what Monique has imagined would be raised. Luke is proof positive that there is light at the end of the tunnel for those who have served and suffered.
Luke himself has the final word:
“My foundation is giving those who have retreated to the darkness a chance to embrace the light,” he said. “I want as many people as possible to have the chance I had. If I can show that I’m comfortable talking about it, maybe someone else will get comfortable talking about it too.”
(Written By: Richard Evans)
