Armor Up: Supporting First Responders Through Trauma and Healing With Vanessa Stapleton Riley

In this episode, Dan speaks with Vanessa Stapleton Riley from Armor Up West Virginia about the critical support provided to first responders dealing with PTSD and mental health challenges. They discuss the establishment of the organization, the importance of mental health education, the role of crisis hotlines, and the various training programs available for families and first responders. Vanessa shares her personal experiences and the impact of community initiatives like the Lieutenant Aaron Acree Blood Drive, emphasizing the need for open conversations about mental health and suicide prevention within the first responder community.

Dan

9/30/20241 min read

Annual Lt Aaron Acree Memorial Blood Drive
Honoring the memory of Lt Aaron Acree of the Summersville Police Dept and raising awareness for first responder mental health.

https://www.redcrossblood.org/

Armor Up WV

https://www.facebook.com/ARMORUP.WV/⁠

Safe Call Now

https://www.safecallnowusa.org/⁠

Responder Health

https://responderhealth.com/⁠