Our first responders need help | Kathryn Severns Avery | TEDxStGeorge

Description: What would happen if you called 911 and no one answered your call? Kathryn Severns Avery shares her story and why we are dangerously close to that reality in the United States. Far too many first responders agencies are understaffed and face recruiting and retention challenges. If we don't help the helpers, who will be there to help us? firstrespondertrainingalliance.com #firstresponders, #firstresponderburnout, #helpthehelpers #hope #TEDxStGeorge #TEDx #TEDxSpeaker On December 4, 2020, Chris Avery left home to pick up groceries. He never returned. Three robbers fleeing police ran a red light and t-boned his car. Chris died at the scene. Many expected his wife, Kathryn, to sue the police because there had been a high-speed pursuit. But instead, she vowed to not let the experience ruin her life. Like most civilians, she was blissfully ignorant of how difficult, demanding, and dangerous the work of first responders is and the toll it takes on them and their families. In 2022, Kathryn started Restoration Ranch Colorado, a nonprofit providing respite stays for first responders and their families. The Ranch has served more than 1, 000 first responders and their families. Sadly, the public continues to ignore the national shortage of first responders and their need for support. The Ranch closed in 2026 due to lack of funding. However, Kathryn continues passionately to educate, advocate, and agitate on behalf of first responders and their families. launchyournewlife.com This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx Close description