On Tuesday, a tragic incident occurred in a Plantation home when 40-year-old Jean Carlos Aponte, an Army veteran and Purple Heart honoree, killed his wife Sara Ashley Gama and their 2-year-old son Ethan before attempting to take his own life. Aponte is now in critical condition at the hospital after an apparent self-induced drug overdose.
Despite this devastating turn of events, it’s important to recognize that Aponte had recently reached out for help to address his mental health. Chris Haley, founder of Catch A Lift Fund, a group that provides former service members mental health support through working out, accepted Aponte into the program. Unfortunately, the tragic outcome highlights the need for continued efforts in addressing the mental health crisis among veterans.
According to Haley, Aponte was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and a traumatic brain injury. Despite these struggles, he had a strong desire to make things right for his family. “He wanted to do things right and be a positive example for his family,” Haley said. “It’s very unfortunate that he ended up taking his own life.”
The investigation into Aponte’s actions is still active, but police have not yet released any details about how or why he allegedly killed his wife and child. It’s clear that this man was struggling with mental health issues and felt overwhelmed by them. It’s important to continue supporting organizations like Catch A Lift Fund that provide mental health support to veterans like Aponte.
