The MacArthur High School MacTEACH PTSD Ambassadors is kicking off their year as they pledge to advocate for mental health initiatives and issues related to the suicide crisis facing the country's veterans and service members. On average, 22 service members and veterans die from suicide each day. This year's start is more personal as their combined efforts are dedicated to the memory of U.S. Army PFC Tyler Gorentz, a San Antonio native who lost his life to suicide on May 24, 2019 while stationed in Germany. Tyler's mother, Patsy Sanchez, employed with San Antonio College, works with the North East ISD Dual Credit program.
For senior, Colby Mask, MacTEACH student leader for the PTSD program, it is especially personal.
"The tragedy Ms. Sanchez endures can't be sympathized away," said Mask. "Rather than try and speak over all the white noise, I've decided to further embrace our mental health and PTSD efforts. Two years ago, when I first became a member of the PTSD Ambassadors, I chose the number 22 to wear on my football jersey. More than ever before, I now take the field not only for myself and my team, but for the servicemen and women, and the families suffering for PTSD and mental health issues. This year, I take the field for PFC Tyler Gorentz."
For Patsy Sanchez, the Ambassador's dedication means a great deal as well.
"I will always wonder why I did not see that my happy-go-lucky son was no longer living to experience life, but living just to make it to another tomorrow, until he no longer could see a reason for tomorrow," said Sanchez. "Words cannot express how thankful I am for the support of the PTSD Ambassadors. I hope their mission will help someone survive another day and thrive to see the sun come up every day. It's good to believe Tyler's death will not be in vain."
Founded upon the principles associated with social and emotional learning, the PTSD Ambassadors, in association with the Birdwell Foundation, Wish for Our Heroes, and the Pink Berets, look forward to a year filled with advocacy, recognizing and appreciating emotions and behaviors, establishing and maintaining positive relationships, and solving challenging situations.
