Veterans’ Day commemorations

23 Jul 2019

23 July 2019

James Bell will speak about his experiences in Afghanistan, and how his time in the military and police force has shaped his understanding of the importance of mental health wellbeing.

Veterans’ Day is an important date at St John of God Richmond Hospital as many patients who attend the hospital’s well-known trauma and post-traumatic stress disorders programs have military backgrounds.

“Veterans’ Day offers an opportunity for current and former patients, and the community, to acknowledge and reflect on the psychological consequences of trauma incurred by military personnel,” St John of God Richmond Hospital Clinical Nurse Consultant Sean Fitz-Gerald said.

“It will be great to hear from James who will share his experiences as a soldier in the past as well as his current work with the police.

“James’ background will be familiar with many of our former and current patients who have been affected by trauma in the course of their work in military or as first responders including law enforcement, fire and emergency services.”

The hospital is hosting a lunch and art exhibition following the formal service on Thursday 1 August 2019.