“PTSD is a whole body tragedy,” said former Army pilot Joe Sepesy, as he discussed how symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder have impacted his life. He noted that PTSD was once brushed off with names like “battle fatigue” or “shell shock” before becoming an official diagnosis.
Sepesy’s captivating presentation on Friday, March 31, was the kick-off program for National Public Health Week at NEOMED.
Sepesy’s journey began in Vietnam shortly after being enlisted, and on his first night he was awaked by the jarring sounds of a rocket attack. Three weeks later, Sepesy’s helicopter was shot down. He was able to land it, but suffered a back injury. He also tearfully recounted a time when a Vietnamese child was killed, and he was instructed to “not talk about it” should he ever be questioned. He said the case just “went away,” leading to years of anger and mistrust of authority, which are common symptoms of PTSD.
He also detailed the other symptoms he has lived with throughout his life caused by PTSD, such as emotional numbing, survivor’s guilt, and difficulties sleeping and concentrating.
Sepesy eventually found an outlet – ballroom dancing. Terese V. Hurin, M.S.P.O., who designed custom equipment for Sepesy, discussed the process of working together with him to make the braces that allowed movement so he could continue with his favorite dances. Sepesy also brought his wife on stage and the duo displayed some of their best ballroom dancing techniques.
He also shared another recent joyous occasion from the last six months – the opportunity to fly “Huey,” the same model of helicopter he once flew in Vietnam.
The best part of the trip though? “My bride was flying along with me!” Sepesy exclaimed while showing a photo of the smiling couple inside the helicopter.
Watch Joe Sepesy’s full presentation on our YouTube channel