Marine Veteran’s Cross-Country Trek with Dog and Horse to Raise PTSD Awareness

In an extraordinary and inspiring mission of hope and resilience, U.S. Marine Corps veteran Matt Perella, alongside his loyal dog and steadfast horse, Buck, is embarking on an epic journey across the United States. His purpose is to raise awareness for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a critical issue affecting countless veterans. This courageous endeavor aims to highlight the challenges faced by veterans and the urgent need for support and resources to combat PTSD. By sharing his personal journey, Perella hopes to inspire others and bring attention to this pressing cause.

Perella’s journey began in November 2021, a period marked by immense personal turmoil. Having served honorably as a Marine, he found himself grappling with the silent but pervasive wounds of PTSD. The challenges of civilian life, compounded by the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent economic crash, left Perella in a state of despair. Everything he had meticulously built since his active duty days seemed to crumble, forcing him to confront the harsh realities of starting over.

The turning point in Perella’s life came during a moment of profound hopelessness. “I couldn’t believe I reached such a low point,” Perella shared with WLWT. In a critical instance, as he contemplated the darkest thoughts, his dog intervened. “The moment I decided I wasn’t going to live anymore, he jumped on top of me and wouldn’t let me up. He did that twice,” Perella recounted, highlighting the unwavering loyalty and life-saving presence of his canine companion.

Realizing the depth of his PTSD and the urgent need for change, Perella resolved to seek help and transform his pain into a mission of hope for others. He decided not only to address his own struggles but also to create a support system for fellow veterans battling similar demons.

Understanding the gravity of the issue, Perella embarked on a mission to raise awareness and funds for PTSD. He discovered a staggering statistic: 22 veterans lose their lives to suicide each day. Determined to make a difference, Perella set out on an ambitious cross-country journey with his dog and horse, Buck. His goal is to raise funds for a pioneering initiative that could potentially save countless lives.

Perella envisions The Righteous Life Rescue Ranch as a sanctuary dedicated to the well-being of both animals and veterans. This ranch will serve as a haven for retired horses and dogs on death row, providing them with a second chance at life. The animals will receive extensive training to address behavioral issues, ultimately transforming them into companion animals for veterans with PTSD.

“I am setting out to build The Righteous Life Rescue Ranch for retired horses and death row dogs,” Perella explained on his GoFundMe page. His mission is to create a space where veterans can access therapy dogs and horses free of charge, promoting healing and recovery.

Therapy animals play a pivotal role in the rehabilitation of veterans suffering from PTSD. At The Righteous Life Rescue Ranch, retired horses will be integrated into therapeutic programs, offering veterans a unique and effective form of treatment. The ranch aims to provide a safe and nurturing environment where both animals and veterans can thrive.

Perella’s journey is nothing short of epic, covering approximately 5,000 miles from coast to coast. The expedition is slated to conclude by winter, with a fundraising goal of $10 million to bring the ranch to fruition. Throughout this arduous journey, Perella has garnered significant support, amassing over 2.5k followers on Instagram under the handle “The Three Amigos.” This growing community of supporters is a testament to the widespread recognition of his mission.

Despite the outpouring of support, the journey has not been without its challenges. Perella and his companions have faced numerous obstacles, from battling swarms of horseflies to spending hours each day removing ticks from Buck. These hardships, however, have only strengthened Perella’s resolve to see his mission through to the end.

Perella’s unwavering dedication to raising awareness for PTSD and supporting fellow veterans underscores the depth of his commitment. His vision for The Righteous Life Rescue Ranch represents a beacon of hope, offering a lifeline to those who have sacrificed so much for their country. By transforming his personal struggle into a mission of compassion and support, Perella is paving the way for a brighter future for veterans and animals alike.

Through his journey, Perella aims to inspire others to join him in his cause. The funds raised will be instrumental in building a sanctuary that provides vital resources and support to veterans in need. As he continues his trek across the country, Perella’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of compassion and community.

By sharing his journey and vision, Perella hopes to rally widespread support for The Righteous Life Rescue Ranch, ensuring that every veteran receives the help they deserve and that every animal in need finds a safe and loving home. His mission, while challenging, is a testament to the power of determination and the enduring bond between humans and animals in the fight against PTSD.

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