The Fighter: Paul Warren

One month after he arrived in Afghanistan as a soldier in the ADF, an IED exploded, tearing off his right leg. The same explosion instantly killed his mate, Private Ben Ranaudo.

Private Paul Warren’s life was saved by the quick work of his battalion, who got him a helicopter within 16 minutes for surgery.

Paul was flown to Germany and then back to Australia, where he received treatment for his injuries in Brisbane. Although he had only known his partner, Dearne, for four months before his deployment, she moved to Brisbane to assist his recovery.

There were many dark times as Paul struggled with the shattering effects of PTSD, and guilt and grief over the death of his mate Benny. At his lowest ebb, Paul thought about taking his own life, as so many other soldiers in similar circumstances continue to do.

Recovery was a slow and at times desperately painful process, but the discipline and toughness he’d learned from his martial arts background and the fierce love of Dearne helped him mend.

Paul’s book covers his journey with PTSD and a return home to a new life, and how he’s rebuilt his life, and health – and even got back to phenomenal fitness levels and participated in the 2014 Invictus Games in London. His story is one of courage, determination and love that will move all who read it.

Paul now works for Mates4Mates in Townsville, an organisation dedicated to helping injured soldiers. He’s a true fighter in all senses of the word, from martial arts, to war, to recovery.

Entry Fee $5 for MHHV Members and $10 others – includes a drink and snacks