BY KELLY ROCHE
Get down and bang out 22.
A physical challenge raising awareness about suicide among veterans and first responders is taking over the nation’s capital and is expected to go Canada-wide.
The 22 push-up challenge has participants making a 22-day commitment to complete 22 pushups daily and donate $22 to Wounded Warriors Canada.
Similar to 2014’s A.L.S. ice bucket challenge – which apparently funded a breakthrough – nominations are required, along with video.
The idea, already popular stateside, came from four Ottawa residents who approached the WWC to partner up.
“We just think it’s wonderful,” said WWC executive director Scott Maxwell.
“I hope we really are able to use this campaign to raise awareness.”
Battling “the invisible injuries,” primarily PTSD, is the goal.
In the U.S., 22 veterans take their own lives every day, according to a 2012 suicide data report.
“We have lost far too many,” said Maxwell.
As far as Canadian figures, “it’s tough. Not everything goes reported.”
As far as Canadian figures, “it’s tough. Not everything goes reported.”
Data often excludes Canadian Forces reserves, he said.
Nonetheless, “the timing of this couldn’t be better,” said Maxwell.
Nearly $5,000 has been raised “in just a couple of days,” said Maxwell.
“I think it’s only going to grow quickly if this week’s any indication.”
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