Thank you in advance for your attention to our request for assistance in producing a documentary on a very important topic that is in dire need of being brought to light.

Working Title: #JustOne

 Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has taken a toll in the population, but more so in the first responder and military veteran community. The project is aimed at giving hope to those suffering with the mental health issues related to PTSD and prevent #JustOne suicide.

 The film is the creation of retired NYC Police Department Detective and Medal of Honor recipient and PTSD survivor.

 LGC Studios, a New York State certified film studio, produces award-winning video content. Of note is the completion of an international documentary “Living Light” currently being aired on public television stations across the country. 

 Conceptually, the film will highlight the journey of four or five first responders and/or military veterans from the depths of their suffering, the transition away from suicide (either attempts or serious ideations) and return to a healthy and fruitful life.  The purpose is to show that there is a light of hope and a reason to have hope.  Our production will be supported by mental health professionals, both on screen and as technical advisors.

 This is a complex undertaking, as is any professional film, with necessary skilled individuals and processes.  LGC Studios will offer the monetary foundation, however, substantial additional funds will be required. 

 A narrative of the genesis behind the concept and production budget are below and a trailer for the documentary can be viewed at this link….#JustOne PTSD/Suicide Prevention documentary

 We are grateful for any assistance or guidance you can provide.

 Sincerely,

Greg Demetriou, CEO, Retired NYCPD Det.#2668

 #JustOne.

 I am an ardent supporter of raising awareness of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and epidemic level of suicides in the law enforcement and military communities.

 PTSD is invisible and a potential killer.  Dangerous violent episodes or continued stressful situations of the military, law enforcement, or other first responder lines of duty, can create a lethal cocktail of sights, sounds, injuries, and images that haunt the mind and soul.  Clearly, not everyone is affected but, for the ones that are, it can lead to a very dark, deep place. 

 The current rate of suicides is overwhelming. 1 in 5 veterans returning from war will develop PTSD; 36% of them will be classified as ‘at risk for suicide.’  There are over 5,000 suicides each year by veterans with PTSD and 5 million Americans suffer from some form of PTSD.  Without treatment negative effects include sleeplessness, extreme anxiety, depression, self-loathing, and, too often, suicidal thoughts or actions. 

 One often hears the sad news that a former military warrior or police officer has taken his or her own life—each tears a small piece of my heart.  You see I am one of the lucky ones.  I was a police officer and diagnosed with PTSD after a violent shooting incident in New York City, in which a uniformed police officer died, and I was severely wounded.

 My diagnosis didn’t come until months later.  Initial symptoms and multiple trips to the hospital set the stage for being sent to see a professional.  It was humiliating to be told that I was damaged in a different way from my physical injury and confusing, I viewed myself as the spirited, front of the line, go-getter Detective.  Yet here I was being told that I had PTSD and would need not only therapy but medication in the form of tranquilizers and anti-depressants. 

 For over ten years, I never left home without my pills in fear of an attack.  That existence and resulting inability to think in a straight-line wreaked havoc on my life.  I looked perfectly healthy, no scars, limp, or any visual sign that I was broken inside.  I wished for some outward indication because then, maybe, people would understand.  It was a lonely internal battle.  I never quite went down the dark and deep abyss or have suicidal thoughts but understand how easily that line could be crossed. 

 30 years later, the strangle-hold of PTSD has faded and I am hoping, that through my story and with God’s help, I can help save #JustOne. 

 By great fortune, faith, and perseverance, I turned the corner and enjoy a full life.  I own an award-winning video production studio and work with a team of skilled professionals.  Collectively, we believe the concept we are building will bring hope to today's PTSD sufferers.

By telling their stories, depths of suffering, contemplation, or actual suicide attempts and explaining their paths back to a solid mental health, we expect to shine the light of hope and demonstrate the fruitful lives that can be attained.

 The working title of our film is #JustOne.  We are seeking sponsors, grants, or direct funding for the development, pre-production, travel, filming, post-production, and distribution.  Our initial focus for distribution is National Public Television.

 FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:  Greg Demetriou, [email protected], 631-695-1500 ext. 215 or Rich Poggioli, [email protected], 631-694-1500 ext. 219.