Canadian Soldier with PTSD Jilted by National Defense

DND reverses decision on extended release for soldier with PTSD 
The Canadian Press
Posted: May 04, 2014

Master Cpl. Kristian Wolowidnyk was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder after he returned from Afghanistan in 2010. He spoke with CBC News late last year.
(CBC )

"I can assure you Kristian attempted suicide because he is very, very ill and had hit rock bottom at that point. In no small part due to having the prospect of having the only career he has ever known ripped away from him."

National Defence has done an about-face and revoked an offer that would have allowed a soldier with post-traumatic stress disorder, who spoke publicly last fall about his attempted suicide, the right to an extended release from the military.

Master Cpl. Kristian Wolowidnyk's story made headlines across the country in November when it was revealed he tried to take his own life after the army put him on the fast-track for dismissal.

The military backed down after his case became public, but just last week reversed itself and said he doesn't qualify for the program.

He was given the latest news last Tuesday by officials at the Edmonton Joint Personnel Support Unit, one of several centres across the country designed to get injured and ill soldiers back to their units or — more often — out of the military.

Wolowidnyk, and wife Michele, were told the offer for an extended release under the Integrated Transition Program was withdrawn and that the base surgeon had stated that there was no medical reason why he couldn't be either working or in school.
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PTSD-suffering veteran speaks out about suicide attempt
As Canadian defence officials investigate the fourth apparent suicide of a soldier in the past two weeks, an Edmonton veteran is talking about his attempt to take his own life.