Leckey Harrison: Building Resilience in First Responders
We get married to rescuing everybody that, all the strangers that we don't know but we don't take care of our home front.
What happens when a firefighter who has seen it all decides to turn his struggles into a mission to help others? Meet Leckey Harrison, a retired volunteer firefighter and EMT, who shares his compelling journey in this episode of 'Rescue the Rescuer'. Leckey’s story is one of grit, resilience, and hope, aimed at supporting first responders who face immense pressure and stress daily.
After experiencing his own 'Perfect Storm' call, Leckey co-founded Raise Your Resilience, a non-profit dedicated to equipping first responders with the tools they need to thrive amidst adversity. From dealing with PTSD and addiction to navigating relationship challenges, Leckey offers practical advice drawn from his own experiences and his work with the Whidbey CareNet community. Leckey emphasizes the importance of self-care practices, including his advanced training in Krav Maga self-defense, as essential strategies for maintaining mental and physical health.
He argues that first responders often neglect their own well-being while being committed to saving others, leading to burnout and other issues. As he puts it, 'We get married to rescuing everybody that, all the strangers that we don't know but we don't take care of our home front'. The episode also highlights the critical role of community support and collaboration in helping first responders heal and grow.
Whether you are a first responder yourself or someone interested in the unique challenges these heroes face, this episode offers valuable insights and practical strategies for building resilience and finding hope. Tune in to hear Leckey's inspiring story and learn more about how Raise Your Resilience is making a difference in the lives of those who serve on the front lines.