Vince Ford hadn’t done a pushup in 35 years, he admits.
But now the long-time Langley paramedic is doing 22 pushups a day, for 22 days straight for a very important reason.
“This struggle and pain that I will be feeling will not even be a fraction of what my co-workers and friends feel or have felt, unfortunately,” said Ford, who has been a paramedic for 36 years.
Military personnel and first responders are nominating each other across North America to spread awareness about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
The number 22 represents the 22 U.S. service men and women who commit suicide every day.
Canada’s first responders are also committing suicide at alarming rates, he said.
“I have many co-workers and friends affected.
“They are struggling every day because of this disorder,” said Ford.
“I have a number of friends and co-workers who have committed suicide. Due to the number of my friends directly affected from this illness, I have decided to accept this challenge.”
Langley physicians, Dr. Steve Hansen and Dr. Len Delair agreed to take part in the pushup challenge last week with Ford who posted the video on his Facebook wall.
“Working as a paramedic is one part of a very large team, in emergency services. All members of this team witness the ending results of horrible tragedies.
“There are soldiers and first responders that have struggles dealing with these (tragedies), and need the support from others.
“There should never be any kind of stigma with this issue.
“It is sad that so many suffer in silence with PTSD and feel that suicide is the only way out. Speak out, while hopefully, others are listening up,” he said.
“We need to be there for each other in order to prevent further tragedy and the ever increasing numbers affected.”
Ford has been doing pushups every day for the past week, joined by veterans, fellow paramedics and doctors, and on Sunday, he was supported by 22 Township firefighters at the hall on 232 Street.
The goal is to reach 22 million push-ups and have them displayed on social media while creating better understanding of the serious issue.
Victims, families, co-workers, and friends are encouraged to be aware of the signs and symptoms of PTSD.
On Oct. 16, Ford is planning a pushup flash mob. It will take place at 10 a.m. at Brydon Park (198 Street and 53 Avenue). Everyone is welcome to participate.
Learn more about PTSD here.