Travis Howze addresses first responders

VW independent staff

Internationally recognized speaker, author and former first responder Travis Howze was in Van Wert Saturday to address approximately 800 firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMS professionals, dispatchers, military veterans and mental health advocates on topics such as trauma, burnout and resilience in public safety professions. The event was held at Lifehouse Church.

Howze’s appearance had been in the works for well over a year. Howze’s appearance was secured by funds from Van Wert Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 681 and a number of local businesses and organizations.

Howze, a former firefighter, police officer and U.S. Marine brought his unique perspective to the issue of post-traumatic stress. After surviving career-ending injuries and the loss of several colleagues, Howze turned to comedy and public speaking as a way to cope and to help others heal. Now, he shares his journey across the country, encouraging those in uniform to speak up, seek help and reclaim their mental well being.

“We spend our entire careers saving others,” Howze said. It’s time we start saving ourselves. Mental health should be a priority, not a stigma.”

Howze’s mental health issues started in his childhood and culminated in June, 2007, while a member of the Charleston, South Carolina Fire Deparment. Nine firefighters perished during the Sofa Super Store fire and he was on the body recovery team. That event was what ultimately led him to develop his “Create Your Own Light” book and podcast.

Howze spoke for nearly three hours, then engaged in a meet and greet with photos with those in attendance, and signed copies of his book.