In an extraordinary and inspiring mission of hope and resilience, U.S. Marine Corps veteran Matt Perella, along with his loyal dog and steadfast horse Buck, is embarking on an epic journey across the United States. His goal is to raise awareness of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a significant issue that affects countless veterans. This courageous effort aims to highlight the challenges veterans face and the urgent need for support and resources to combat PTSD. By sharing his personal journey, Perella hopes to inspire others and draw attention to this urgent cause.
Perella’s journey began in November 2021, a period marked by immense personal turmoil. After serving honorably as a Marine, he found himself struggling with the silent but pervasive wounds of PTSD. The challenges of civilian life, combined with the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic crisis, sent Perella into a state of despair. Everything he had painstakingly built since his military days seemed to crumble, forcing him to face the harsh reality of starting over.
The turning point in Perella’s life came at a moment of deep despair. “I couldn’t believe how low I had come,” Perella told WLWT. In one critical moment, as he was contemplating his darkest thoughts, his dog intervened. “Just when I decided I wasn’t going to live anymore, he jumped on me and wouldn’t let me get up. He did it twice,” Perella recounted, citing the unwavering loyalty and life-saving presence of his canine companion.
Realizing the depth of PTSD and the urgent need for change, Perella was determined to seek help and turn his pain into a mission of hope for others. He decided to not only tackle his own struggles, but also create a support system for fellow veterans battling similar demons.
Understanding the severity of the problem, Perella embarked on a mission to raise awareness and funds for PTSD. He discovered a staggering statistic: 22 veterans lose their lives to suicide every day. Determined to make a difference, Perella embarked on an ambitious cross-country journey with his dog and horse, Buck. His goal was 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. The ranch would serve as a sanctuary for retired horses and dogs awaiting execution, giving them a second chance at life. The animals would undergo extensive training to address behavioral issues, eventually transforming them into companion animals for veterans suffering from PTSD.
“I am starting The Righteous Life Rescue Ranch for retired horses and dogs on death row,” Perella explains on his GoFundMe page. His mission is to create a space where veterans can access therapy dogs and horses for free, 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 are included in therapy programs, providing veterans with a unique and effective form of treatment. The ranch aims to provide a safe and nurturing environment where both the animals and the veterans can thrive.
Perella’s journey has been nothing short of epic, spanning some 5,000 miles from coast to coast. The expedition is scheduled to conclude this winter, with a fundraising goal of $10 million to get the ranch up and running. Throughout his arduous journey, Perella has garnered significant support, amassing over 2,500 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 overwhelming support, the journey was not without its challenges. Perella and his companions faced numerous obstacles, from battling swarms of horseflies to spending hours each day removing ticks from Buck. However, these hardships only strengthened Perella’s determination to see her mission through to the end.
Perella’s tireless dedication to raising awareness about PTSD and supporting fellow veterans underscores the depth of his commitment. His vision for The Righteous Life Rescue Ranch represents a beacon of hope, providing a lifeline for 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 both veterans and animals.
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Through her journey, Perella hopes to inspire others to join her cause. The money raised will go a long way toward building a shelter that provides vital resources and support to veterans in need. As she continues her journey 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 every animal in need finds a safe and loving home. His mission, while challenging, is a testament to the power of determination and the strong bond between humans and animals in the fight against PTSD.
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