My name is Matthew Barber. I’m 28 years old, a husband, and a father of two. I was also known as Master Corporal Barber.

Deployment and Struggles with PTSD

In 2010, I deployed to Afghanistan with the Canadian Forces Battle Group. For five years, I struggled with the aftermath of my deployment, making it nearly impossible to live a normal life. To escape, I ran from Hamilton, Ontario, to Forest Grove, British Columbia. Like my three-year-old son hiding from monsters under the blankets, I tried to hide from my problems in a remote part of BC.

The Breaking Point

Eventually, the issues I was running from caught up to me. In November of last year, I reached a breaking point and attempted to take my own life. I couldn’t take it anymore and was diagnosed with PTSD.

Support and Help from Legacy Place

With great support from my wife, I reached out to Veterans Affairs and got set up with Care West OSI Clinic in Calgary. Since I was out of work, I needed a place to stay while undergoing therapy, which was required for a week at a time.

Difficult Beginnings

For the first few weeks, I stayed with family, but it made things worse. Without money and relying on the Royal Canadian Legion for transportation to and from BC, I was in a tough spot.

A Life-Changing Stay at Legacy Place

Then, I was introduced to Legacy Place in Calgary. For just $15 a night, I stayed in a clean, beautiful house with my own room. The young soldier who manages the house was incredibly supportive, making a huge difference in my healing process.

Healing and Hope

This past week, while continuing my therapy, staying at Legacy Place has been the best experience I’ve had in a long time. I finally feel my life starting to improve.

Matthew Barber

Lisa shares her heartfelt experience during her brief stay at Legacy Place Calgary, where she found a safe, welcoming environment while supporting her husband’s therapy journey. From the moment she arrived, the house felt warm and inviting, offering her much-needed comfort during a challenging time. With the incredible support of “Mr. Cameron,” the house manager, Lisa felt at ease and able to relax, something she had not experienced before in an unfamiliar place.

Over the past 7 months, she has witnessed a significant positive change in her husband’s behavior. Legacy Place Calgary, with its supportive atmosphere, played a crucial role in his healing process. Lisa holds the facility in the highest regard, appreciating the compassionate care and positive impact it has had on her family.

Legacy Place Calgary provides a much-needed sanctuary for families of First Responders, offering a secure, nurturing space for healing and growth. Lisa’s story reflects the transformative power of supportive environments for both veterans and their loved ones.