2015 Atlantic Journalism Awards Finalists
Attachments
| Slug/Label | The Struggle Within |
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| Date Aired or Published | Nov. 4, 2015 |
| Media outlet where first aired or published: | The Daily Gleaner |
| Name of Program: | |
| If co-produced, list partner: | |
| Location: | Fredericton, N.B. |
| List awards, grants: | |
| Running time (TV/Radio): | |
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Short explanation of the story and how it developed: I received plenty of positive feedback on the story in the Nov. 4 edition of the Gleaner on Tracy bodybuilder Chris Gaudet, the former soldier who has overcome drinking, drug and gambling addictions and deals with post-traumatic stress disorder. "PTSD and drinking and (other) addictions is hell," Chris said, "and it's one dangerous path." It's a story that needed to be told, but given the sensitive subject matter, I didn't know how much Chris would open up. Well, we sat face-to-face for 30 minutes and he answered every question I asked. His candour and graphic details made the story jump off the page at points. "Some of his quotes sent chills down my spine," one colleague said. I forwarded Chris an online comment from Mary-Faith and Todd Mazerolle: "Wow, just wow! This is a great story and should be told to anyone who will listen. Chris, you are a true hero and deserve much better from our military. I salute you and all of our service men and women and their families for the tremendous sacrifices you have made for our freedom." "Wow, that's amazing," Chris responded. "Thank you for sharing, Bruce. Inspires me." Chris can inspire us. He's seen terrible things he can't unsee, done terrible things he can't undo. But he's working harder to be a better man, a better dad. One piece that didn't make the story shows why Chris is on the right track. He doesn't skulk around the gym, full of rage and resentment. He talks to anyone and everyone. "Respect is everything to me," he said. "I don't care if you're 500 pounds or it's your first day in the gym, I treat everybody the same. I don't care if you can bench 600 pounds or 50 pounds. I respect everybody who tries." I have a ton of respect for what Chris has overcome and how he's ready to tackle the challenges he still faces. He's 39. I hope he lives to 99. Bruce Hallihan |
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Resources of the newsroom (money and time) available to complete the story: Digital recorder, computer, pen, notebook |
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