Serving in the military comes with a weight few can truly understand. It’s a lifelong commitment, one rooted in sacrifice, discipline, and service. While each branch of the military has its own unique challenges, all who serve share a common bond: a willingness to put others first, often at the expense of their own well-being.

 

Fitzy’s Story

In 2020, after 15 years of service in the Australian Army, my world unravelled. A personal crisis and the devastating loss of a friend to suicide sent me into a downward spiral. Another close mate attempted to take his own life shortly after. These events shook me to my core and pushed me into a dark place I never thought I’d go.

I turned to alcohol, withdrew from everything I loved, and struggled to face each day. Grief and depression became constants in my life. At my lowest, I attempted to end my life three times.

After my final attempt, injured and broken, I boarded a plane across the country to say my goodbyes quietly, without anyone knowing. But the people who cared about me noticed, and they stepped in.

Thanks to the support of friends and family, I entered a private clinic where I began the long process of healing. It was there, in that place of vulnerability, that I slowly found myself again.

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The Road Back

When I returned to Sydney, I felt like I had failed everyone: my family, my mates, my unit. But instead of being cast aside, my Commanding Officer gave me a choice. Medical separation from the Army, or the chance to prove I could return to service.

I chose to fight.

The years that followed were not easy. I committed to recovery, both physically and mentally. I rebuilt myself with the help of medical professionals, support networks and sheer determination. I didn’t just return to work, I came back to life.

Today, I stand not as a victim of my past, but as a survivor. And now, I’ve found a new mission: to advocate for those still struggling in silence.

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Why I’m Taking Action

The Royal Commission has brought long-overdue attention to the challenges veterans face from PTSD, depression, and the tragic rate of suicide. We’ve lost too many, both in combat and at home, to battles that could’ve been prevented with the right support.

 

That’s why, on the 3rd of November, I will begin my journey from Holsworthy Army Barracks in Sydney, running 43 km every day, wearing a 10Kg weighted vest.

• Each kilometre represents one of the 42 soldiers we lost during the Middle East conflicts.

• The 43rd kilometre is for those who died by suicide after returning home.

• The vest symbolises the emotional, physical, and mental burden every veteran carries long after the uniform comes off.

 

This is more than a run. It’s a movement.

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How You Can Help

We’re calling on all Australians, from veterans, their families, friends, and communities and everyone in between to join the mission.

Here’s how:

•  Donate to the Weight of War that sponsors veterans into the Strive To Thrive Nation program.

•  Share the message and help us raise awareness by spreading Fitzy’s story and campaign.

•  Run with us in person, virtually, or organise your own awareness event.

• Create your own fundraising campaign to raise money as a team or individual and help me get to 50K

•  Start the conversation and help break the stigma around mental health in the military.

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Together, We Carry the Weight

This journey isn’t just mine. It’s for every veteran who’s ever felt forgotten. For every family that’s endured the pain of loss. For those still fighting silent battles.

Let’s ensure that no one carries the weight alone.

Join the mission. Support our veterans. Be the reason someone chooses to stay.

 

 

Fitzy