The Iron Bison: Forged in Fire, Not Defined by Pain

The Moment the World Said I Was Done...

I remember the day I was told my career was over. My life, shaken to its core, had hit a wall—a hard, unyielding wall of chronic pain. For 30-plus years in Fire and EMS, I had seen countless lives reduced to a cycle of affliction and victimhood. I was determined not to join them.

This wasn't just a simple injury; it was the devastating culmination of three years of terrible luck. I was facing an ending I refused to accept. The question became: How do you come back when you've been pushed to the brink of career extinction?

Finding the Resilience of the Bison

The bison is a magnificent symbol of resilience, an animal returned from the brink, but not alone. Like the bison, I needed help: the right doctors and proper support. But what truly forged my path through this challenge was applying an iron will.

The iron is the crucible of struggle. I chose to be resolute, to accept help, and to do the hard work required to forge my own tools to thrive. I may still have this challenge, but it has not defined my life. I created the Iron Bison—a means to keep going, living a whole life, even when it is difficult

My Mission: From First Responder to Resilience Architect

I am now using my TEE (training, education, and experience) to share what has worked for me. My focus is on helping others with chronic pain avoid the self-destructive behaviors that often befall those facing chronic conditions.

In particular, my mission is for first responders, medical professionals, and veterans. We are the groups frequently overlooked for the myriad chronic pains and injuries left behind in our professions. We are simply expected to accept the physical sacrifice.

The Iron Bison message is a direct challenge to that expectation. Through my company, Iron Bison Resilience, I will offer:

· Lectures and workshops

· One-on-One Coaching (in-time)

· More of my story, anecdotes, and responses to articles on pain in future posts.

A Note of Transparency: I am not a physician, psychiatrist, or counselor. I am someone who found a way back, and I want to help you find yours.

If you are tired of being a victim of your affliction, ready to forge an iron will and reclaim your whole life, and wish to avoid self-destructive behaviors, sign up for updates! Don't miss out on new blogs, events, and resources.

Interested in inviting me to speak to your organization or department? Please email me at info@ironbisonresilience.com for more details.