Corporal Andy Summers fought his biggest battle after he returned from service in Iraq.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Royal Australian Air Force avionics technician attempted suicide after suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
He sought help and his road to recovery has involved helping others to heal.
“After that, I just wanted to raise awareness and break the stigma,” he said.
Cpl Summers organised a climb up Mount Kosciuszko to raise awareness and money for Wagga Legacy.
“PTSD and depression is like a mountain you have to overcome and I wanted Mount Kosciuszko to represent that,” he said.
Seventy participants from the RAAF, army and navy climbed Australia’s highest peak on March 11 to raise more than $2000, which was presented to Legacy on Thursday.
“It was an amazing day… there’s nothing like having your commanding officer walk beside you among his men,” he said.
“I got emotional to see them all up there.”
Out of the 70 climbers, about 12 decided to climb from the base and not use the chair lift.
It took most of the day to get up and down and representatives carried flags for each of the services.
Cpl Summers has embarked on two major events before – a 40-kilometre pack walk through the sands on Manly Beach and another from Newcastle to Sydney.
If you or someone you know needs help, call:
- Lifeline – 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
- MensLine Australia – 1300 78 99 78