My Story - Port Arthur Massacre Survivor

[Bazza]

My Story - Port Arthur Massacre Survivor

[anthony]

Bazza,

Well done for getting that out of you. I do remember that myself, from seeing it on the news for months after it occured. Still to this day, the worst bloodshed Australia has seen to date. I know myself, that being shot at is certainly not fun, even when you have a rifle yourself, still not fun, let alone only at 10 years of age, no weapon, and confronted by a mad man who wants nothing more than create chaos and bloodshed.

Its great that you are seeking counselling for yourself, which can only benefit you, your wife and daughter. Well done. The pain of trauma is never an easy pain, as it takes so many years to subside, compared to if we just break an arm or leg, the pain comes and goes. I have no doubt that this pain has only been growing inside you for some time. I am sorry about that.

Just know that we are here to support you bazza, and that what you realised that you are normal, and the things your feeling and experiencing, are all normal for the sheer trauma you have suffered. I say suffered, because that incident was not enduring, it was suffering. I am glad you mad it out alive to be honest. Bastards like that never see past the pain and suffering that is inflicted on all those survivors who have to live with the memories the rest of their lives. IMHO, he should have been given the death sentence, and it was one incident where I think they should have brought it back just for his occassion.

Really glad that we have helped you so far, and we are always here to support you mate, know that.

[reallydown]

Bazza, glad you're here. Hope chatting with us helps

[piglet]

Great going Bazza! You've made a huge positive step for yourself and your family. Be proud!

[nml]

Welcome Bazza!

[Nam]

Hello Bazza. What a harrowing experience. We welcome you. Read, Vent, support, and cry. This forum is great for that.

[metaphase twig]

Hi Bazza,
I heard about that when I was living in Australia...What a terrible thing that was! I'm sorry for your experience and hope you'll find help here.

[YoungAndAngry]

Welcome Bazza!!!!

[Kerrie-Ann]

Hey Bazza,

Welcome. I remember hearing of that incident in stunned disbelief that something could happen like that here. There are no words that could probably describe the terror that you must have felt at 10 years of age. I am glad for you and your family that you have found your way here. I hope that this forum will allow you to vent and to help you heal. Please let your wife know that this site exists for spouses too! I would be more than happy to speak with her. Take care.

[secretstars]

Hi Bazza,

I'm glad you're getting yourself help. What an awful thing to live through. But yes, you are normal -- PTSD is a normal response to any sort of experience like that.

Good luck with the counselling! :)

-- Lorelei