October 20, 2017 - Ottawa, ON
The Veterans Ombudsman presented the 2017 Commendation for individual contribution to Daniel Lafontaine for his ongoing dedication to the military community. In addition to sharing his accomplishments (link to bio), we wanted to know more about the inspiration of our recipient of the Veterans Ombudsman Commendation in the Individual category.
Guy Parent, Veterans Ombudsman: How did you start working with Veterans?
Sergeant (Ret’d) Daniel Lafontaine: After my depression and suicide attempt in 2008, I accepted the support of my great friend Robert “Bob” Danis, who worked with OSISS. Later, I had to deal with the inevitable: divorce, personal bankruptcy and a contentious relationship with my 18 years old son. With my psychiatrist and my physical/psychological/social/vocational rehabilitation workers, I regained my self-confidence and was able to cope with my anxiety problems. Despite repeated failures during my vocational rehabilitation, I received a major blow: declared indeterminately unfit by VAC. However, my rehabilitation work enabled me to overcome my frustrations and my fears for my future.
I told myself that there must be a lot of Veterans who are suffering like me and don’t dare to ask for support. I therefore got involved in policy, working on several advisory tables with the Honourable Steven Blaney. I also noticed the lack of ceremonies for Veterans and new generation Veterans, so I decided to organize a commemoration for Canadian peacekeepers in 2011 through 2013. I had to stop this activity due to lack of interested volunteers and lack of financial support from governments and businesses. Now that a team has been formed, we are planning the 5th edition for August 9, 2018. I also got involved with several organizations of Veterans to help them to better understand their rights and how to fill out VAC documentation. I am currently serving on a working table to fight Quebec Veteran homelessness with the banner “RESPECT.”
Guy Parent, Veterans Ombudsman: What would be your message to someone who wants to make a positive change in the lives of Veterans and their families?
Sergeant (Ret’d) Daniel Lafontaine: You need time and, above all, perseverance. Anything is possible if you have the will to improve your life. I tell injured Veterans that they have every right to want to give up, but that we have a responsibility to take care of ourselves before we can support others, such as our spouse and children. I tell them that it takes courage to ask for support and that, because they are soldiers, they already have courage within them, so during the darkest times they have to draw on their deepest stores of courage. I tell them that the road to well-being can take time, but it is well worth the investment to be at peace with themselves. The saying that I take with me everywhere is “you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.”
Guy Parent, Veterans Ombudsman: Thank you and congratulations!