Aspen Medical's Chris Thompson-Lang awarded Spirit of Resilience at Lifeline Canberra Awards

Please note: This article contains references to suicide. If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au. 

Aspen Medical congratulates our Canberra-based colleague Chris Thompson-Lang, who was honoured with the Spirit of Resilience Award at the recent 2025 Lifeline Spirit of Canberra Awards.

The award celebrates individuals who have shown unwavering strength, optimism and positive impact in the face of personal adversity. Chris’ journey, marked by military service, injury, recovery and deep community contribution, embodies this spirit.

Chris was nominated for his extensive work in veteran and first responder mental health. After medically discharging from the Army, he co-founded Frontline Yoga, a national health promotion charity providing trauma-informed yoga to veterans, first responders and healthcare workers across Australia. The initiative has delivered more than 25,000 free yoga classes, built a national network of volunteer instructors with military and emergency service connections and continues to educate on trauma-informed practice.

He was instrumental in the establishment of Vita Nova, our dedicated veterans' network.

Vita Nova (Latin for “new life”) is far more than a professional network. It is a framework of purpose, connection and professional development - designed to ensure veterans, their families, and Defence community members are fully supported as they transition to and thrive within civilian employment. 

Chris said: “Resilience for me hasn’t come from being tough or going it alone. It comes from meaningful support and connection with others, quality people who’ve walked beside me during some of life’s hardest times.

“Losing my brother Stephen to suicide was a tragedy we still feel. I want people to know that the work Lifeline does is saving lives and sparing families the pain we’ve known.”

Chris has long advocated for proactive mental health support and community connection, especially for those transitioning from high-stress service roles into civilian life.

His story is one of lived experience turned into purpose. Chris continues to support initiatives that bridge the gap between trauma and recovery, helping others find strength and self-worth beyond service.