OCALA, FL (352today.com) – A diagnosis made decades after his service in Vietnam has brought a life-changing transformation for Raymond A. Whyte Sr., a U.S. Army Ranger veteran.
Speaking at the Equine Industry Career Expo at the Florida Horse Park on Nov. 22, 2024, Whyte shared his journey from battling undiagnosed PTSD to finding solace through equine therapy and ministry.
Whyte left the military in 1970 and faced severe health challenges soon after, including bleeding ulcers. However, his attempts to seek care from the Veterans Administration (VA) were initially denied, leaving him disillusioned. “That put a bone in me against the V.A.,” Whyte said, recounting his decision to avoid the VA for over 40 years.
In 2012, a chance trip to the VA led to his PTSD diagnosis after a stressful incident during a hospital visit revealed his condition. “The doctor was the one who signed me up to be tested for PTSD,” he said. Although early treatments exacerbated his symptoms, a psychiatrist’s referral to the Veterans Resource Center introduced Whyte to the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association (MTRA).
Over the past four years, Whyte has developed a strong bond with Major Tom, his therapy horse. Activities like riding, grooming, and tacking have provided him therapeutic benefits and a sense of camaraderie. “The bond with the other veterans in the program… you can’t put a price on it,” he said.
In addition to equine therapy, Whyte has found purpose in ministry. “I laughed when I heard the Lord speaking to me about branching off into ministry,” he said, explaining how his work with R.A.W. Ministries has brought him a newfound passion for public speaking and serving others.
Whyte’s journey highlights the profound impact of equine therapy and spiritual growth on veterans coping with PTSD. “Now, I love it,” he said of his ministry work. “It’s part of what keeps me going.”