Latest news with #JamesJefferson
CTV News
8 hours ago
- Health
- CTV News
Weather moves PTSD awareness walk in Sudbury indoors
Rainy weather moved an annual PTSD walk into Sudbury Arena on Friday, where first responders gathered to hear important messages. Inclement weather forced a last-minute change for the third annual Blue Balance Wellness PTSD Awareness Walk in Greater Sudbury. It was switched to an indoor ceremony at the Sudbury Arena. First responders and other uniformed service personnel sat shoulder-to-shoulder in support of PTSD awareness and mental health. PTSD walk Sudbury First responders and other uniformed service personnel sat shoulder-to-shoulder Friday in Sudbury in support of PTSD awareness and mental health. (Angela Gemmill/CTV News) The event is meant to reduce the stigma around mental health, particularly for those who work in emergency services. 'First responders are more susceptible to post-traumatic stress, but this is a human problem and a human challenge,' said James Jefferson, the wellness officer at Greater Sudbury Police Service. The event also raises funds for the national mental health service provider, Wounded Warriors Canada, which serves professionals and organizations exposed to trauma. 'First responders are more susceptible to post-traumatic stress, but this is a human problem and a human challenge.' — James Jefferson, wellness officer at Greater Sudbury Police Service 'Especially within the first responder community, we want them to recognize that it is an honourable injury, something that is earned in honourable service of the community,' said Steven Topham, director of fundraising. 'We would like them to be able to have those conversations and reach out and speak to individuals when they feel that they need assistance.' Guest speakers told the crowd that hearing others speak openly about their PTSD stories and experiences helps to normalize asking for help. 'We have members off with PTSD or on journeys with PTSD,' said Matt Hall, president of the Greater Sudbury Police Association. Need a lot of support 'We're no different than any other first responders in the province or in the country. There's a lot of support going into helping those members out. I'm very proud of all those members that have actually put up their hand and asked for help.' Jefferson was diagnosed with PTSD in 2011 and said it was a journey to understand it and heal from it. 'I understand it very intimately, and I really want to continue spreading the word that we can heal from this, and we can create a life,' he said. 'It just takes doing the right things, prioritizing your self-care and formulating a tribe around you to support you.' For those who are experiencing PTSD, Jefferson suggested finding a support service or program that works for you and building a community of support – because too many are suffering in silence.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Yahoo
Amnesty Day to be held this month by the Shreveport City Marshal's Office. Here's what you need to know
The Shreveport City Marshal's Office is hosting its annual amnesty day later this month. On Saturday, June 21, the Shreveport City Marshal's Office will host its annual Amnesty Day from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Shreveport City Courthouse. This will allow anyone who has outstanding warrants through the Shreveport City Court to have their warrants recalled and a new court date scheduled without fear of being arrested or additional fees. Also, anyone with delinquent fines can get a new payment schedule. According to the marshal's office, this is only for warrants and fines issued through Shreveport City Courts. Warrants that involve Domestic Abuse Battery, Battery of a Dating Partner, DWI's and probation will not be recalled and must post a bond. Marshal James Jefferson encourages anyone who thinks that they may have an outstanding warrant or delinquent fines to take advantage of this opportunity. Individuals must come in person with their ID. More: Three more escaped New Orleans inmates have been caught, while two still remain at large Makenzie Boucher is a reporter with the Shreveport Times. Contact her at mboucher@ This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Amnesty Day to be held this month by the Shreveport City Marshal's Office. Here's what you need to know
