State Rep., Gerald Brady, D-Wilmington, is resigning from the Delaware House, citing the impact of Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome.
Brady issued the following:
“I am announcing my resignation from the Delaware House of Representatives, effective Friday, February 4, 2022. I do so with deep regret and sadness, but I remain grateful for the nearly 16 years of service I was privileged to render of behalf of my neighbors and my community.
“As you know, I served my country honorably during the Middle Eastern conflicts of the last two decades as a member of the Delaware Army National Guard. As a result of my deployment, I lost the majority of my hearing and have been dealing with the challenges it presents daily. Just like many thousands of my fellow veterans returning home with wartime injuries, I have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD.)
“The grim reality of this condition for those of us who live with it is long periods of silent suffering, which can be punctuated by episodes or conduct that may make little sense to people who do not understand the nature of PTSD. The challenges that returning veterans face can create situational stresses, which have a cumulative effect and take a great toll on an individual. Personal and professional challenges or other traumatic events can exacerbate PTSD.
“Recognizing the severity of this situation, I am taking steps to address these issues directly. I would ask anyone who knows someone who served to look after their loved ones and identify warning signs of PTSD and mental health issues. Early detection and intervention is critical.
Brady had earlier announced he would not run again after an Email message with an Asian racial slur surfaced.
He is the executive director of the Delaware AFL-CIO.
