Veteran to speak on PTSD in commemoration of 9/11

NAMI Barrington will host USMC veteran and author, Derek Porter, for a presentation and signing of his new book “Conquering Mental Fatigues: PTSD & Hypervigilance disorder — POST WAR.” This free event takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10, at Arlington Heights Memorial Library, Hendrickson Room, 501 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights.

Porter is a former United States Marine and Iraq War veteran. While active, he served with the 2nd Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Company and was awarded the Navy Marine Corps Achievement Medal with combat distinguishing device for bravery under fire. Currently studying for his master’s degree in security management at the University of Denver, he holds a bachelor’s degree in business management. Porter is co-founder and chief operating officer of the War Writers’ Campaign, a nonprofit which provides a forum for helping veterans write and publish their stories under the guiding principle of “the power of therapy through communication.”

“NAMI Barrington scheduled this event around 9/11 to remind us that our military heroes make lifelong sacrifices to protect us,” Toni Hoy, NAMI board member and USMC parent, said. “‘Conquering Mental Fatigues’ lends insight into the mind of a warrior, prewar and during combat as well as the resulting effects, postwar. It reveals not only that our veterans need more help, but specifically what kind of help they need.”

Organizations sponsoring this event include NAMI Barrington, Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Lake McHenry Veterans and Family Services and the War Writers’ Campaign.

Please join NAMI to hear Derek’s interesting and insightful presentation. RSVP as a courtesy, but not a requirement. For further information or to RSVP, call Maryrose at (847) 496-1415. You can also visit NAMI is the nation#146;s largest grass-roots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. NAMI advocates for access to services, treatment, supports and research and is steadfast in its commitment to raising awareness and building a community of hope. #160;">namiba@namibarringtonarea.org