PTSD walk set for June 27
The event to support veterans and first responders will step off at 8 a.m. at the McPherson Complex.
People walk together during the PTSD Awareness Walk in Ocala on June 27, 2025. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]
You can help raise awareness about post-traumatic stress disorder and support veterans and local first responders by making a 2.2 mile walk on National PTSD Awareness Day, Saturday, June 27. The walk will begin at 8 a.m. at the McPherson Governmental Complex at 601 S.E. 25th Ave., Ocala.
“Stronger Than the Storm” is the motto of the national awareness day, according to Marion County Administration, coordinator of the event. Post-traumatic stress disorder “affects millions of people of all ages, including veterans, first responders and survivors of trauma,” according to marion.fl.org
“June is PTSD Awareness Month—a time to educate, support and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health,” the website states.
T- shirts are available for the walk and afterward, on a “while supplies last” basis. The shirts feature the “Stronger Than the Storm” logo and a choice of local first responder agency names. Cost ranges from $26 to $30 and proceeds will benefit Veterans Helping Veterans USA of Marion County, Fire Rescue Peer Support and Critical Aspects.
Fire Rescue Support was founded by Marion County Fire Rescue Chaplain Joe LaCognata in 2011, on the 10th anniversary of 9/11. The organization provides personnel with care and support “before during and after” emergency calls, according to firerescuesupport.com
Critical Aspects is an organization founded by a Marion County Sheriff’s Office chaplain to address the “physical, mental, emotional and spiritual impacts associated with the law enforcement profession and the toll it takes on the individual officer; and …provide assistance to law enforcement professionals in need,” according to criticalaspects.org
Veterans Helping Veterans USA of Marion County has partnered with Marion County to facilitate sales of the shirts, according to VHV Executive Director Todd Belknap.
The T-shirts can be ordered at mission1776.org
“Thank you for supporting this worthy cause. 100% of T-shirt proceeds go directly to local organizations helping those who are affected by PTSD,” the website states.
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