October 19, 2017 - Ottawa, ON
Veterans Ombudsman National Organization recipients are recognized for their lasting, positive influence on Veterans and their families. This year’s recipient, Paws Fur Thought, has matched more than 90 Veterans and First Responders with service dogs across Canada.
I want to share the inspirational stories of our 2017 Veterans Ombudsman recipients, with you. So, I asked Medric Cousineau, co-founder of Paws Fur Thought, and a retired decorated RCAF Captain and Star of Courage recipient, the questions I asked our 2017 Veterans Ombudsman Commendation Lifetime recipient, Lieutenant-General (Ret’d) Louis Cuppens, C.M.M., C.D. and our Local Organization recipient, New Chelsea Society’s Executive Director Pat Buchannon. Here’s what he had to say:
Veterans Ombudsman Guy Parent: How did you start your work with Veterans, and what inspired you?
Medric Cousineau, co-founder Paws Fur Thought: Relief from my PTSD symptoms came in the form of my Service Dog, Thai. I knew I was not the only one with PTSD symptoms, and I wanted to do something to help others like me, so my wife and I founded Paws Fur Thought. When we started, neither of us envisioned the journey we’re on.
Veterans Ombudsman Guy Parent: What would you tell someone who is hoping to make a difference in the lives of Veterans and their families?
Medric Cousineau, co-founded Paws Fur Thought: Veterans Advocacy is a complicated battlefield with many interconnected complex issues. My best advice is to define your arcs and stick within them. The most effective advocates I have seen and had the privilege of working with are very focused and know their issue inside out. They become subject matter experts in their fields.
Veterans Ombudsman Guy Parent: Thank you, and congratulations to Paws Fur Thought and Medric and Jocelyn Cousineau.