Rally Point Retreat opens in Sable River for PTSD sufferers

A military veteran who found sanctuary in the woodlands of rural Nova Scotia is opening up his home to fellow servicemen and women who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Bob Grundy and his wife, Johan, have converted their ranch-style home and 73 hectare property in Sable River into a retreat where people coping with trauma can recover, reconnect with nature and rebuild their families.

The former air defence technician says the Rally Point Retreat welcomes forces members, first responders and journalists who are receiving medical treatment for PTSD and charges nothing for their stay.

The lodge is equipped with two guest rooms, a fitness centre, a hot tub, a ping pong table and a woodworking workshop, all surrounded by meandering trails and a lake.

Bob Grundy is funding the project with his pension for now but hopes to expand so he can build cabins for other people seeking respite.

Rally Point officially opened its doors on Monday but the Grundys have already taken in a small number of guests in recent weeks.