MIAMI – As part of our ongoing mission to spread awareness about first responder mental health, we’ve shared some pretty powerful stories. We’ve heard from retired first responders, impacted family members, therapists and clergy, but current officers and firefighters have been reluctant to speak publicly, until now. One active, local firefighter is opening up about his mental...Read More
Earlier this month, Detroit firefighter Matt Dunaj found himself at his breaking point after years of stress from work, financial difficulties, and personal challenges. One night, alone in his basement, he was on the verge of ending his life. As he prepared to, his Goldendoodle, Mia, rushed to his side, licking his face and interrupting the moment with...Read More
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KATV) — As the nation grapples with a mental health crisis, first responders find themselves at a heightened risk for suicide due to the demanding nature of their work. First responders, including firefighters, police officers, and EMTs, often face higher rates of mental health challenges. Captain Ronnie Spivey of the Little Rock Fire...Read More
LOS ANGELES — What haunts firefighter Brett Klemme is not the flames. It’s the photographs. On Jan. 7, the day the wildfires of Los Angeles ignited and forced mass evacuations, Klemme recalled, he entered a burning house in Pacific Palisades and saw photos of two young children that reminded him of his own. Klemme, 39, said he...Read More
On Nov. 16, 2024, Chief John McMahon, a well-known advocate for mental health, died by suicide, sending shockwaves through the first responder community. McMahon dedicated his life to serving others through his work with Memorial Weekend, the Florida Firefighter’s Memorial, Guns and Hoses Pipes and Drums, and his unwavering commitment to peer support and suicide...Read More
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Gov. Kathy Hochul has announced that up to $2 million will be made available to expand suicide prevention efforts for the military and first responders. These prevention efforts, facilitated by respective agencies and organizations, will be bolstered through funding by the CARES UP initiative, administered through the New York Office of...Read More
