Terry Butcher, a football legend and former England captain, has opened up about the tragic loss of his son, Chris, in a new ITV4 documentary called 'Butcher: Invisible Wounds'. The documentary explores the impact of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) on veterans and their families, and how Terry and his wife, Rita, have coped with their grief. In this article, we'll delve into Terry's story, explore the broader implications of PTSD, and offer some insights and commentary on this important issue.
A Football Legend's Personal Tragedy
Terry Butcher is a household name in football, known for his incredible career playing for Ipswich Town and Rangers, and representing England in three FIFA World Cups. But behind the iconic image of the blood-soaked shirt from a 1990 World Cup qualifier match, lies a personal tragedy. In October 2017, Terry and his family suffered an unimaginable loss when his eldest son, Chris, passed away at the age of 35 while battling PTSD.
Chris, a Captain in the Royal Artillery, had served in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. His death was a stark reminder of the invisible wounds that can affect veterans, and how these wounds can have a devastating impact on families.
The Impact of PTSD on Families
In the documentary, Terry opens up about the heartbreak of losing Chris and how his family has coped with their grief. He describes how he and Rita became isolated as they processed their grief, and how they struggled to reach out to others for support.
"We didn't want to go and see people because you don't know what people are going to say," Terry says. "You think, have we got a sign on our heads like 'my son just passed away, we have a death in the family'. You're not a different person and you don't look differently, but inside your whole world's upside down."
Terry's words highlight the struggle many families face when dealing with the loss of a loved one to PTSD. The invisible nature of the wound can make it difficult for others to understand the pain and suffering the family is going through.
The Importance of Support and Conversation
Terry's documentary is a call to action for others to reach out and support families affected by PTSD. He wants to see more people talking about their experiences and seeking help, and he believes that by doing so, we can make a difference.
"I want people to see the film and say, 'You know what, I'm going to make a difference, I'm going to help someone. I'm going to volunteer or I'm going to say to somebody, 'Are you OK?' and start conversations," Terry says. "We've got to talk more."
Terry's words are a powerful reminder of the importance of support and conversation in dealing with PTSD. By reaching out and talking about our experiences, we can help to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and create a more supportive environment for those affected.
The Role of Combat2Coffee
Terry is also using his platform to support families affected by PTSD through his role as patron of Combat2Coffee, a community interest company that supports veterans and their families. The company provides a safe space for families to come together and talk over a coffee, and Terry believes that by doing so, they can begin to heal.
"There's so many families out there that need to take that first step, and if they can take that first step, then everybody benefits," Terry says. "I want people to see the film and say, 'You know what, I'm going to make a difference, I'm going to help someone.'"
A Force of Nature
Terry also fondly recalls his son Chris, describing him as a force of nature with a brilliant sense of humour. Chris was a leader and a strong character who knew how to talk to people and had a lot of respect for them. Terry believes that Chris's commitment to helping others was a reflection of his own values.
"He was a force of nature, he was a character, a leader, strong. He knew what he wanted, he totally committed to whatever thing he was doing: golf, cricket, rugby, American football. And he wanted to help people," Terry says.
A Footballing Legend's Advice
Terry's story is a powerful reminder of the impact that PTSD can have on families, and the importance of support and conversation in dealing with this invisible wound. As a footballing legend, Terry has some simple advice for the current England squad as they embark on the 2026 World Cup.
"Win!" he enthuses. "Win at all costs."
Terry's words are a powerful reminder of the importance of determination and grit in achieving success. As we reflect on his story, we can draw inspiration from his resilience and commitment to making a difference, and use it to fuel our own efforts to support those affected by PTSD.
