Kitimat firefighter Marissa Morison is taking part in this year’s Wounded Warrior Run which aims at raising awareness of the help that exists for operational stress injuries. The event organizers hope to raise $250,000.
Morison said the cause is very close to her and she wants to be a part of the efforts to help those who have sustained or are at risk of sustaining injuries to receive the support they need.
“As someone who has experienced a non-occupational stress injury, I can empathize with what individuals and families face when occupational stress injuries (OSI) such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develop,” said Morison. “It is imperative that we continue to have the resources to not only manage PTSD and OSI, but also develop skills to recognize the signs and symptoms of this injury in ourselves and others, whilst also building a toolkit for resiliency.”
Morison, who was a former track athlete wanted to utilize her past training to give back to the cause. Running has been a part of her life from a very young age.
Justin Medeiros, President of the Kitimat Firefighters Association says the association will also be donating to support Morison.
“We’re extremely proud of Marissa, this is a cause she is very passionate about and we’re happy to stand by her and show our support,” said Medeiros. “The Kitimat Firefighters Association will be donating $1,000 towards the Wounded Warriors Run BC on Marissa’s behalf”
Fire Chief Trent Bossence says the entire department is proud of the work that Morison has put in to be a part of this run.
“We are excited to see her take part in the run and we’re here to cheer her on and give her the most support we can,” Bossence said.
The run begins in Port Hardy on Feb. 27 and will end in Victoria on Mar. 6.
There is also a virtual run where people are encouraged to run in their own communities and the money raised will be put towards the main event goal. The virtual run is held alongside the run taking place from Port Hardy to Victoria. Those looking to take part in the virtual run can register themselves or their team online.