“ As firefighters we are taught to put a smile on our face and go help the public , that is our job , and we love our jobs ,” he said . “ It is the best job in the world , but when we take the trauma home to the ones we love , they suffer also .”
Firefighters are often apprehensive about getting help with mental distress because of the stigma they fear may be attached to it . Ames knew he needed help when he was driving with his children by the area where his mother passed away and he felt overwhelming grief .
“ Most of us have these emotional markers all over the city . When we see that area , we remember . I remembered ,
and that day I sought help for my grief ,” he said .
Ames tells his story because he wants firefighters to know it is OK to cry and to talk to one another , as well as counselors .
“ We are tasked with service to others , and I can ’ t imagine doing anything else . The heart of the firefighter comes out for the people we encounter in trouble . We see them at their worst moments and that can take a toll ,” Ames said . “ To combat the trauma , firefighters often go beyond our jobs by doing good deeds to turn around the sadness of the people involved , and in turn it helps us cope .”
Jeffersonville Fire Department / 150 years 47