Eric Dionne was first posted to Quebec City in the 3^rd Battalion Royal 22^nd Regiment, then to St-Jean and later Ottawa. Over the course of his military career he’s been deployed to Afghanistan three times, and to Haiti once. He now lives in Asheville, North Carolina in the United States, where his wife, Julie, is studying to be a surgeon.

“The best part of being in the army is that you have a group of people to rely on. The more stuff you live through together the more you can rely on each other. For one reason or another, the Invictus team kind of skipped doing things together to get there and we’re just there already, which has been an awesome experience.”

Eric will be competing in the 2023 Invictus Games in indoor rowing, archery, and wheelchair rugby. He was inspired to apply for the Games by the opportunity to travel and meet different people who are living experiences similar to his own—something he misses from the military. Through the journey to the Invictus Games, Eric has been able to find a support network in his fellow competitors. However, his biggest supporter—and number one fan—has always been his wife, Julie.

“[Julie] has been with me my whole life. We got married when we were 20, got together when we were 16. I probably wouldn’t have gotten through half of it without her.”

Due to an injury, Eric had his foot amputated above the ankle, and now uses a prosthetic to help him get around. He says that in the years since his injury he wasn’t able to properly take care of himself. His wife, Julie, stepped up and took on the role of Eric’s caretaker.

“I think the fact that I was also in the military for eight years allowed me to be very flexible and understanding. He had four tours in five years. It was very rough and difficult, but also helped us grow tremendously as a couple. I think that’s why we’re stronger than ever now. Having gone through all of the tours and challenges together also helped us get through Eric’s injury.”

Julie is most excited to see Eric’s progress throughout the Invictus journey, noting that he’s been working out and focused more on his health. They both agree this chance to focus on his mental and physical well-being will benefit him and their family long after the Games end.

With courage, integrity and loyalty, Eric Dionne has left his mark. He is one of our Canadian Veterans. Discover more stories.