Death – Obituary- Cause of Death News : to the family’s wishes.
Edward Thomas Ryan was born on September 14, 1935, in Albany, New York. He enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of 18 and served for over 30 years, rising to the rank of colonel before retiring in 1983. Throughout his military career, Edward received numerous awards and honors for his service, including the Purple Heart for injuries sustained in combat during the Vietnam War.
After retiring from the Army, Edward settled back in his hometown of Albany, where he became an active member of the community. He volunteered at local veterans’ organizations, helping his fellow servicemen and women access the resources they needed. Edward was known for his dedication to his country and his selfless commitment to helping others.
Despite his many accomplishments and accolades, Edward carried a secret with him for decades. In his obituary, he revealed that he had been living with a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for over 40 years. Edward had kept his struggles hidden from those around him, choosing to suffer in silence rather than burden others with his pain.
It was a shock to many who knew Edward to learn of his battle with PTSD. He had always been seen as a strong and resilient individual, someone who could handle any challenge that came his way. But beneath the surface, Edward was struggling with memories and emotions that he could not escape.
In the years following his retirement, Edward had sought treatment for his PTSD, attending therapy sessions and support groups to help him cope with his symptoms. Despite the progress he made, Edward still struggled with nightmares, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. He found solace in his work with other veterans, using his own experiences to help them navigate their own journeys to healing.
Edward’s decision to share his secret in his obituary was a brave and courageous one. He hoped that by speaking out about his struggles, he could encourage others to seek help and support for their own mental health issues. Edward wanted to break the stigma surrounding PTSD and show that it is possible to live a fulfilling life despite the challenges it presents.
In the wake of Edward’s passing, his family and friends have come together to celebrate his life and honor his memory. They remember him not only for his military service and dedication to his community but also for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit. Edward Thomas Ryan may be gone, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.