Help Kirstin raise money

Hello there! My name is Kirstin Hickey.

For those that do not know me, I am a 4^th year BScN student who has been working in healthcare for the last 8 years. For those who do know me, you are aware how important this cause is to me personally. This year I am running the Edmonton’s First Responders Half Marathon in memory of my father Ted Hickey.

If you have or currently work within EMS or protective services in Alberta, you may recognize this name.

Ted graduated from the NAIT Paramedicine program in 1987 and went on to work as a firefighter/paramedic and eventually Deputy Chief with the City of Red Deer. He dedicated himself to his passion for over 25 years. From there he went on to work in community and protective services.

On April 28, 2020, dad tragically lost his battle with mental illness.

Growing up in an EMS household, it was always exciting to spend time at the firehall, hear the dispatch radio go off, or see dad in his dress uniform. His extraordinary dedication of providing care for others inspired both of his children to pursue careers in healthcare and emergency services.

Any family or friend of a first responder understands how much of themselves they give in these lines of work. I have become increasingly aware of the toll these professions take as I have watched loved one’s struggle to take that uniform off at the end of the day. Over the past year and a half, these individuals have faced even more significant challenges and difficulties in their professional roles and personal lives while still providing for their communities and country. Ted was a dedicated advocate for mental health wellness and providing support to colleagues, friends, and family within his professional world and personal life. This cause is a wonderful way to carry on his legacy as it provides the opportunity to increase awareness for mental health services and show support for the amazing people who work tirelessly to keep us safe, and care for us and our loved ones in our most vulnerable moments.

Proceeds raised support the Canadian Mental Health Association who in partnership with OSI-CAN (Operational Stress Injury/Post Traumatic Stress Support Initiative) offers services including peer support groups and resiliency training for first responders, family supports, referrals for equine assisted therapy programs, assistance with service dog acquisition as well as various events and workshops.

For more information please visit:

OSI-CAN

https://www.osi-can.ca/

For a list of their target demographic (who first responders are) and programs

Canadian Mental Health Association

https://alberta.cmha.ca/

For services, projects, partnerships, and training available