Why it matters: You Are Not Alone, written by Rob Parker, raises awareness of PTSD among military veterans and their families, filling a gap that Terry Butcher believes could have helped save his son's life.
The details: The book was launched on Thursday, 20 November at Arlingtons in Ipswich before a full room of attendees. Terry's son, Christopher, died in 2017, aged just 35, from a condition linked to PTSD.
Told through the perspectives of veteran Jack, his wife Sarah, and their two children, the story captures the hidden struggles faced by families when a loved one returns home from military service.
"Nothing like this was available when my son was alive," said Terry. "When I read it, it really hit home and I could relate to it deeply. It resonates across generations, showing how the fallout of trauma affects the entire family. PTSD can feel like a ticking time bomb, with an unpredictable fuse. This book will give hope and support to so many."
What they're saying: Rob said: "You Are Not Alone is a book for everyone. Chris's story was heartbreakingly real, and I wanted to blend that truth with the fictional world of Jack and his family. The key message is that asking for help is an act of strength, not weakness. The book also highlights where people can find the support they need."
Nigel Seaman, founder and chief executive of Combat2Coffee, said: "This book reflects my heart and the journey that led to the creation of Combat2Coffee. The challenges of military and veterans' mental health cast long shadows – not only over me and those I've served alongside, but also across our families. Change is happening. Slowly, steadily, and with purpose."
The Mayor of Ipswich, Cllr Stefan Long, opened the evening by saying: "To have this book out there is a fantastic thing — not just for veterans, but for the families who are also going through it indirectly."
For context: The idea for You Are Not Alone was sparked by a chance encounter between Rob and Nigel. Moved by the stories Nigel shared, Rob wanted to amplify their mission through his writing.
Since Christopher's death, Terry has campaigned tirelessly to raise awareness and support those affected by PTSD. In 2024, he became a patron of Combat2Coffee, an Ipswich-based Community Interest Company dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing of veterans, ex-uniformed personnel, their families and communities.
One of the most powerful moments of the night came when Mandy Small, Combat2Coffee's outreach support officer, shared her family's experience after her husband took his own life, followed by her son, who explained how Combat2Coffee helped their family.
By the numbers: Signed copies of the book were sold throughout the evening, and a signed Ipswich Town shirt was auctioned to raise vital funds for Combat2Coffee. You Are Not Alone retails at £12 and is available to purchase from Combat2Coffee's online shop.
The bottom line: Donations from book profits will be reinvested into Combat2Coffee, while charities Scotty's Little Soldiers and The Not Forgotten, supporting bereaved children and socially isolated veterans, will also benefit.
