Full military funeral held for Lance Sergeant Dan Collins (From Western Telegraph)

Welsh charity that treats Post Traumatic Stress Disorder 'struggling to cope' with demand

2:13pm Wednesday 11th January 2012 in News

The tragic death of Tiers Cross soldier Lance Sergeant Dan Collins has put the work of the Welsh charity which treats victims of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) into even sharper focus.

L/Sgt Collins was found hanged at Pantmaenog Quarry near Rosebush on New Year's Day. His funeral was held today (Wednesday) at St Mary's Church, Cardigan with full military honours.

The Healing The Wounds charity said it was already struggling to cope with demands for its treatment programmes and that demand had increased since the tragedy.

“Since the tragic death of L/Sgt Dan Collins on New Year’s Day, we have been inundated with yet more requests for help. Dan’s death is obviously a huge tragedy, but it has left a massive legacy in raising awareness of PTSD.” said charity founder and executive director Kevin Richards.

“The case of L/Sgt Collins highlights that PTSD treatment is a life or death issue. If the legacy of Dan Collins is saving one life, then that is a start. We are convinced, however, that his legacy will save many lives as PTSD sufferers come forward to receive treatment.

“We have a waiting list for treatment and that cannot be right for the brave men and women who have served our country.

“We are trying our best to cope with demands for PTSD treatment, but we desperately need funds (donations from the public or contributions from individuals, local authorities and other agencies). If we get the funds, then we have the tools to do the job and we can help prevent tragedies like the case of L/Sgt Collins.”

For more information, see the charity’s website at www.healingthewounds.co.uk