While researchers were lauded for their work and clinicians were praised for their initiatives, the two gaining the most applause at a National Fallen Firefighters Foundation conference here last week were a son and a wife who shared their stories about losing a loved one to a heart attack.
Organizers of the Heart to Heart seminar included brief case studies of young firefighters who suffered fatal heart attacks, but hearing the personal stories from survivors moved the audience to tears.
The conference was held to develop strategies to reduce the number of cardiac related death and injuries in the fire service.
Heart related issues are the leading cause of firefighter deaths, and statistics show younger personnel are not exempt.
Hinsdale, Ill. Firefighter/Medic Steve Tullis said being invited to participate was the highlight of his career. “I’m the dumbest guy in the room,” he told the group during introductions.
Less than 24 hours later, he stepped up to the podium to tell the 100 participants that the event on May 4, 1999 changed his life’s path.