Episode 56: Ross Witucki

I've been fortunate enough to meet some amazing people over the past decade as my involvement has increased within the military and first responder communities. Not playing favorites in any way but one that sticks out is my good friend Ross Witucki. The combination of his story, his humility and his heart to serve struck a chord in me from early on in our friendship and I have a great deal of respect for the man he is and how he carries himself. Simply put, this world needs more people like Ross.

Listening to him share his beginnings in archery and bowhunting took me back to my roots in the sport that is so central to our mission here at HHAUSA. Little did I know that over 40 years after I first picked up a bow, we would be promoting it as a therapeutic, and in some cases, life saving tool for those suffering with PTSD. Outside of quality time spent with his wife and two young children, Witucki credits archery and the outdoors as his saving grace to combat the struggles he has endured in his career as a firefighter and EMT.

Called to service for the Wisconsin National Guard after witnessing the 9/11 attacks on TV in high school, Ross enjoyed an uneventful career in the military for the most part. It wasn't until he began serving in the firefighter and paramedic world that he started to experience the traumas that come from seeing people on their worst days. Not picking up on it right away but with the love and support of his wife Erin, the Wituckis have been able to find tools to live with the effects of PTSD.

He also speaks openly about the positive impact that archery and the HHAUSA events have had on him. From the mental therapy that archery provides to the sense of community and belonging that is often lost when people leave the military, he has found a new family here at HHAUSA and we are so thankful that he did.

A self taught archer and a very good one at that, I am honored to call Ross my friend and appreciate the strength and courage that it took for him to share his story. While this was his first ever podcast, it surely won't be his last as we both know the power of sharing our struggles in hope of helping others. PTSD is all too common in his line of work and we want to be a part of a solution by exposing others to the sport we love so much.

We also look forward to debuting Ross's story in 2023 as part of our ongoing HHAUSA Film Series with Sam Ubl and Chase Nation. While still in the beginning stages, it promises to offer hope for those dealing with post traumatic stress and we appreciate Ross and his family in advance for changing lives.

You can follow Ross on Facebook and Instagram.

For more information about HHAUSA, learn how you can support our mission, or attend an event, visit www.hhausa.org

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