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A Life Lesson from PTSD

Updated: Apr 6, 2022


This was my home for the past three years. Many mixed emotions; it was such an incredible spot to live, with views of the lake and the northern lights visible from my back door! I'll never forget many wonderful memories.

Northern lights Pinehouse Lake Carbon Monoxide

Over a three-year period, it was also the site of my carbon monoxide poisoning. I almost died with a CO2 lever of 34 (normal is 0-6), and my dog perished as well. I was flown out to ER in Saskatoon by Air Amb. After that, I travelled to Moose Jaw X 3 for hyperbaric treatment.

The whole encounter has left me with a lot of trauma to this day. It gets to the point where I think I've got a nervous twitch simply thinking about it. My anxiety can get so bad that it's difficult for me to work without becoming anxious. What makes it even more difficult is the stigma associated with mental illness. No one wants to be your friend or listen to your story any longer. You don't get flowers, cards, or "get well soon" advice if you have a broken leg.

View of Pinehouse Lake from my previous nursing quarters
My backyard view

As time passes, I continue to strive to be more positive and to use all of my experiences to grow as a better and stronger person, both for myself and for my new family. It's also highly therapeutic for me to share my tale here. I'm not sure where I'd be right now if it weren't for photography and your support. I know I'll never be disappointed if I have my camera with me. It's my way of getting away from whatever agony I'm experiencing. My camera does not pass judgement on me.

Taking pictures at Norbert Falls, Saskatchewan
Using therapeutic photography

Thank you for taking the time to read what I've written.

22 views1 comment
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Ashley Park

Dre has a true passion for photography, but his night time photography is what really sets him apart from the rest. It takes a lot of patience, planning and instinct to have a successful aurora chase! Highly recommend this photographer as the qualities listed above, cannot be bought nor can they be faked

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Barbara Seibold Wilkes

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. That is what happened for me today as I viewed his once in a lifetime shot of an Aurora Borealis that spoke to me in an extremely meaningful way of a Butterfly and Angel. Delving into his long (and continuing) list of talents and accomplishments, I look forward to following Dre Erwin’s photography and life’s journey. It is a good day!

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Corey O’Soup

By putting cameras in the hands of these youth, a nurse literally is saving lives in the north.

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Leanne Mikkelsen Thoroughgood

Love Dre’s photography! It is breathtaking and vibrant - life affirming! Recommend following his photography as it provides calm and peace at the end of the day!

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