Allegany County Area Peer Support is available to help first responders affected by trauma
By Casey Howe, Allegany County Supervising Emergency Services Dispatch Coordinator
Most people reading this probably already know about the tragedy that occurred on August 6 in Wellsville. Out of respect for the family and everyone involved, I will not share any details. I simply want to express my deepest and most heartfelt sympathy to this family. There are no words that could possibly ease the pain they are experiencing. My heart is absolutely broken for them.
I also want to speak honestly to my fellow first responders and everyone who was affected by today’s events.
Over the course of my career, I have experienced more traumatic events than anyone else I personally know. I do not say that as a brag, and I am not looking for anyone’s sympathy. It is simply the reality of the career I have had.
If you need to reach out do not hesitate. Trauma and stress can lead to serious physical and mental health consequences. The Allegany County Area Peer Support Group is just a call or text away:
Help is available anytime: Call 585-808-2382 or the non emergency number for dispatch 585-268-9600 and ask to be transferred to a peer support specialist.
Normally, I find a way to put these calls away and move forward. I usually bounce back quickly. Today is different. I am struggling terribly with this one—more than I usually do—and I am allowing myself to admit that.
I am incredibly sad. I am crying as I type this, and that is okay.
Too often, those of us in emergency services believe we always have to be the strong ones. We convince ourselves that being affected means we are weak or that we should be able to handle it because it is part of the job. That simply isn’t true. It is okay not to be okay. It is okay to hurt, to cry, to feel angry, to feel numb, or not even know what you are feeling yet. We are human beings before we are first responders.
At the same time, I am incredibly proud of my team and every first responder who answered the call today. Deep sadness and tremendous pride can exist at the same time.
Every day, 911 dispatchers answer the phone when people are experiencing the darkest moments of their lives. Before anyone else arrives, they have us. We are the calm voices in the darkness, helping guide people through situations they never imagined they would face. We give instructions, coordinate help, and remain on the line when someone feels completely alone. Sometimes we carry those voices with us long after the call has ended.
I am proud of the compassion, professionalism, and strength shown by everyone involved today. What you did mattered, even if it may not feel that way right now.
I will be the first to admit that I am not always the greatest listener, and I may not always know the right thing to say. But if you need anything, please reach out. I will be there, help however I can, or connect you with someone who has the resources to help.
Please do not read this as a reason to worry about me. I have a wonderful support system at home and at work that is already looking out for me. I am supported, and I will be okay. I am just not okay right now—and that is okay.
I want everyone affected by today to know that the Allegany County Area Peer Support Team can provide you with the same support and resources that are available to me. You do not have to carry this alone.
Please take care of yourselves and one another—not only tonight, but in the days and weeks ahead.
Casey Howe is a lifelong first responder, a volunteer EMT and firefighter, a career 911 dispatcher. He comes from a family tradition of emergency service, public safety, and is a leader in developing Allegany County’s peer support effort. Casey penned this letter to Governor Hochul earlier this year:
