More Than A Race-Workout #5: For Paramedic Gerald "Garry" Hammer, LaGrange County EMS, LaGrange Indiana (LODD-01/31/14)

You know that feeling you get the night before Christmas? You can't wait for the day to get here...the excitement has been building as the day gets closer. Well, that's how I felt tonight as I was driving home from my run to write this blog. I couldn't wait to share everything with you.  I've had three days off, and it feels like an eternity. These blogs mean a lot to me. Not only am I sharing my progress and workouts, but I am sharing these heroes with all of you.

My Workout
Tonight I opted to "get out of town" for my run. I wanted a change of scenery. Since I was running for Paramedic Garry Hammer, a man who loved the outdoors, as well as animals, I thought this would be the perfect night to begin running in the country. It's pretty incredible to run in the middle of nowhere...no houses, no cars, no people, no noise. Just me, my thoughts and the wildlife. 


I completed my three miles with an average of 11:15MM, but it was what happened during my run that made this night so special. When I first started, I prayed I would see some deer. Paramedic Hammer was a hunter; he loved it, and I'll share more about that below.  My dad was also an avid hunter, especially deer. After he passed, my family and I adopted the idea that when a deer or deer randomly show(s) up, that's a sign that Dad is thinking of us or sending us support or love or whatever we may need at the time. I have story after story of times when I was about to fall apart and a deer would cross in front of me. It was as if my dad was patting me on the shoulder, saying, "Pick your head up...you can do this. I've got your back."  So, my desire to see a deer tonight was more than just enjoying nature, it was personal, too.

As I  finished 2.5 miles without seeing a deer or even a trace of one, I started to get a little disappointed.  But just that quick, a buck crossed right in front of me. I couldn't have planned it better. I watched him move to the edge of the corn field, where I noticed there were two more, a doe and what looked like a fawn or yearling. It was so PERFECT. The buck just watched me.  I continued to run with a huge grin and he just stared.  After a few seconds, he high-tailed it to the back of the field w/ the two others. Yes, I became emotional and had to stop for a couple seconds to wipe my eyes.  It's funny how the little things always have the most meaning.  I'm sure Paramedic Hammer was watching over me tonight. And I'd like to think maybe Dad was standing somewhere up there with him, too.




Paramedic Gerald "Garry" Hammer, La Grange County EMS  (LODD-1/31/14)

Tonight's run was dedicated to Paramedic Gerald "Garry" Hammer.  Since part of my job includes responding to LODDs (Line of Duty Deaths) in both Indiana and Kentucky, I was blessed to meet and spend time with the Hammer family. I instantly felt close to them. I think we share similar backgrounds and definitely a similar sense of humor! But what stood out to me most was the love and compassion they shared with each other and toward others. This is one of the closest families I have ever met; they have amazing hearts. They welcomed me into their lives and allowed me to walk with them in their painful journey. They comforted me as I cried with them and made sure to share a few laughs with me, as well...sometimes at my expense! :) I have no doubt that Garry helped encourage this kind of compassion in his children. And while I wish we could have met for a different reason, I am so proud to call all of them my friends. Running for Garry was an honor tonight. I look forward to running for him in May, as well! 

Paramedic Hammer was indeed a dedicated man of public safety. He was a Critical Care Paramedic with LaGrange, Noble and DeKalb Co. EMS for 39 years. He also worked as a Deputy Coroner with LaGrange and Noble Co for approximately 10 years. He was a SWAT Medic for Noble and LaGrange Counties for approximately 10 years, a Primary Instructor for EMS for almost 30 years and on the District #3 Task Force for Home Land Security serving with the Search and Rescue Dogs. Garry served on the EMS Education Board for the State of Indiana and on the Critical Incident Debriefing Team. To say he loved to serve would be an understatement. 

It is easy to see that public safety was a large part of his life, especially EMS. He would do anything necessary to ensure that others were cared for in the best way possible. He loved to teach and share his great knowledge of medicine. Some of his students have commented that his his teaching style differed from a typical classroom setting, but regardless, it was effective. Those same students learned a great deal from him. Almost anyone who participated in one of his classes would comment that his "was the best class yet" and they had "never learned so much".  Garry had many gifts, but one of those was most obviously sharing his knowledge with others, helping them to be as thorough and successful as he was in EMS.

While EMS was certainly important to him, he had another passion. He loved to hunt deer. His son Jeremy shared a very special story and memory with me:
     "He had never been hunting before, so I offered to take him with me. That one time was all it took; he was fascinated. I remember a little 5 point buck standing 5 feet from him, no clue that Dad was there. It was awesome to see his reaction. I knew instantly he was hooked. I loved being able to share that with him. It is a memory I will always cherish." 

Besides hunting, Paramedic Hammer loved his dogs. He and his wife Pam began training them in 2010. Garry was the handler for dogs that performed search work in human remains detection. His dogs took up a lot of his "extra" time, but he enjoyed every minute with them. They were like his kids. As I looked at pictures of him and his dogs, it was easy to see the strong relationship the shared.

Sadly, Paramedic Hammer suffered a fatal heart attack on January 31, 2014 just minutes after arriving home from a 12-hour overnight shift. He had made emergency responses during his tour of duty, including a 55-minute emergency transport from LaGrange to Fort Wayne. He has touched the lives of  so many in his short time here with us.  Without a doubt, he will be missed.

Garry, you sure are missed, but I'm certain you are watching over your family and fellow colleagues, proudly smiling at all of their accomplishments.

 

 

 

More Than A Race-Workout #4: For Frank Denzinger, Floyd County Sheriff's Department-New Albany, Indiana (LODD-06-18-07)

WORKOUT #4
Tonight I completed my fourth workout for the Mini-Marathon and I accomplished more than adding mileage. Typically, this early in the game, I try to add a mile or .5 mile each week, but since I felt good yesterday and I'm taking Sat and Sunday off, I opted to go for more tonight. When I reached the 1.5 mile mark, I started thinking maybe 2 miles was enough. I had almost talked myself into stopping when I realized, this training isn't just about my body. This training is for my mind, too. (Yes, that's a scary thought and yes, I know I need it!!)

I have to learn to push myself and keep going when my mind doesn't think it can.  Frankly it's been a long time since I've done that. Trust me when I tell you that it's easy to fall into the trap of giving up when you think you're done or can't go any further. The reality, at least for me is that my body is capable of much more than I "think". So tonight when my mind was telling me I should probably stop, I thought about all of these heroes and their families, and I pushed on with no problems. Proof that sometimes it is a mind over matter issue.  I was able to complete 3.25 miles at a pace of about 11:30MM.  (It's not about time right now, just building stamina) In addition to that I walked 1.5 miles after I ran.   

 

Officer Frank Denzinger - LODD (06/18/07) 
Tonight's run is dedicated to Frank Denzinger of the Floyd County Sheriff's Department. Officer Denzinger served with the Floyd County Sheriff's Department for four years. He was survived by his wife, Tara, 2-year-old daughter, Avery, his parents and two sisters. He was only 32 years old at the time of his death.

I contacted Frank's wife to gather information about him. I first met Tara when my dad died in September, 2010. Within hours of my dad's passing, she was there helping my mom deal with those initial feelings of shock and disbelief. Afterall, no one understands that pain better than another survivor. She was a godsend to my entire family.  And since that awful week, I've been able to spend time with Tara at different events and activities. She's one of the most genuine people I've ever met, and I'm blessed to call her a friend.

As you read and learn about Officer Denzinger, I think you'll see what an amazing man he was and how incredibly connected he was to his family. It was an honor to run for him tonight.

Frank Denzinger was an extremely witty and funny guy with many hobbies and interests. It seemed he was always cracking jokes and just generally very fun and easy to be around. He loved to read and watch shows about Muscle Cars and was very interested in history, particularly World War II. He loved the West and had hoped to travel out west with Avery (his daughter) just like he did with his father. His favorite author was Louis L'amour and he owned almost every single one of his books. He appreciated the photography of Ansel Adams - all nods to the West.  And Frank especially appreciated those who farmed.  He often said that not enough credit was given to the farmer.  He believed they kept America thriving. 

Officer Denzinger was a loyal man, especially to his friends. He was always there when they needed him and spent a fair amount of time with his closest friends. He wasn't a sports guy AT ALL but did run every night when he got home from work. He and a few other officers who were also friends would meet at the local middle school or high school and run on the track.

Frank Denzinger was extremely committed to his family. He was very close to his parents, sisters and his nephews. He often went to the farm where his parents built a home (previously his grandparents had a home on the same land) and spent time riding 4 wheelers and shooting, as well as just spending time with his family. In addition, he was a fine son in law and brother in law and became a father figure to Tara's nephew, Dalton. He remained very involved in Dalton's life and treated him like one of his own.

Frank Denzinger was an extremely committed father. He established a relationship with Avery VERY early and his connection to her was unbelievably strong.  While Tara was pregnant, he would often speak to her stomach, and almost immediately Avery would turn toward Frank's voice. In addition, before she was born, Avery would always wake before 10pm so that she could "hear" her daddy and then go back to sleep, almost as if her day was not done or her world not complete if he was not there at the end of the night.

Officer Denzinger was a very hands on father. For example, when he would come home from work, he,Tara and Avery would tell the moon and stars good night together. And later, while Tara was attending school, he kept Avery until he dropped her off to go to work. He often spoke of of watching her grow and go to school. He looked forward to teaching her to shoot and wondered if she would be Floyd County's first female Sniper. He admitted that when he thought about the day he would give her away to her husband, he knew it would break his heart. 

Tara described Frank as a very supportive husband. He was a care taker and definitely protective. He was supportive and a good leader for their family. He wasn't the type who brought home flowers, but instead he took her to pick out her favorite rose bushes to grow at home so she could always have flowers.

In addition to being a committed father and supportive husband, Frank Denzinger was also a dedicated officer. He was well-liked and those who knew him best could describe him as meticulous. For example, he cleaned his patrol car tires with a toothbrush. He loved working traffic, including many Operation Pullovers. And even though he initially accepted a position with the Indiana State Police, his heart was always in Floyd County, his home county.  He loved working there and genuinely loved his brothers in uniform. He always knew he was home when he was there.

Officer Frank Denzinger was shot and killed when he and another officer responded to a domestic disturbance call on June 18, 2007.  The officers responded to a report of a confrontation between a mother and her son in the 6000 block of Rachel Court in Georgetown at about 6:30 pm. Upon their arrival, while they were conversing with the mother in the driveway, her 15-year-old son ambushed both officers from an upstairs window of the residence.

The suspect, who was using a high-powered, World War II relic M-1 Garand rifle, struck Officer Denzinger with a second round between the side panels of his bullet-resistant vest, before the other officer was able to return fire into the home. Officer Denzinger was transported to University Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, where he succumbed to his wounds. The other officer was seriously wounded, but survived. The suspect was found six hours later inside the residence having committed suicide.

There isn't a day that goes by that Frank is not missed by his family, friends and department. 

More Than A Race-Workout #3: For Dana Schoolman, Ashkum Fire Department, Illinois (LODD-11-6-88)

Workout #3

Tonight I completed my third workout for the Mini-Marathon. I ran 2.5 miles at a pace of 11:00MM.  I also walked about 3 miles. Once again, I stayed here in town with a path I knew.  Once I feel a little more sure of my stamina, I'll get out and run where there's some scenery! :) My legs finally felt pretty good throughout and not nearly as sore as the last two days. (See, I told you I was out of shape!) I actually felt like I could've run a couple more miles, but I know better than to push my luck! No point in getting injured this early!

Firefighter Dana Schoolman - LODD 11/6/88

I met the widow of tonight's honored hero during the National Fallen Firefighters Survivors Conference this past May in St. Louis.  Anne Schoolman was so very nice to me.  Like the rest of us, she misses her husband/hero every day. He was a huge part of her life, as well as their children's lives.  It was my honor to train for Firefighter Dana Schoolman this evening. Please read about him below.  

If you've followed my blogs so far, I'm sure you're starting to see a pattern with these men and women. They are all some of the most selfless people anyone has ever met. Please don't forget their sacrifice.

Firefighter Dana Schoolman was a 6 year volunteer/member of the Ashkum Township Fire Protection District and served as a Firefighter and EMT-ID. He was born January 2, 1957 and was only 31 years old at the time of his death. Firefighter Schoolman was killed when he lost control of his car and struck a utility pole. He was enroute from his home to an ambulance call in a nearby city. Illinois State Police said area roads were wet at the time of the accident. Snow and sleet had been falling throughout the early morning hours.

Anne and Dana Schoolman were married on April 15, 1978. They have two children, Kellie (who I had the pleasure of meeting at the NFFF Survivor Conference in St. Louis) and Cole who is a redhead just like his dad. At the time of Dana's death, Kellie (their daughter) was six and Cole (their son) was three. Besides his family, Dana's greatest love was the fire department. He also enjoyed hunting and was a certified hunting safety instructor for the Illinois DEPT of conservation. His wife, Anne made the following comment about Dana, "He was the most loving, caring person and would do anything for anyone."

At the time of Dana's death, Ashkum Fire Chief Michael O' Brien made the following statement, "His dedication is going to be missed. In our society, people like Dana are starting to become rare. I think all my people are above standard, but Dana was far above that. Dana always had a lot of interest in service, and was always wanting to get more schooling, which is something we encourage."

My Thoughts

As I finish my third blog about a third hero with hundreds and thousands that remain to be written about, I find myself wondering who will tell those stories? Who will tell the stories of the heroes I don't have a chance to share? Who is making sure that we don't forget these men and women who sacrificed days, holidays, vacations, and ultimately their lives to serve people just like you and me? Do I have a personal connection? SURE...but why does it take that before others will step up and recognize these men and women who have risked it all? I know it's not easy to read or listen to how someone's life was cut short. I know you might get emotional. BUT for one minute stop and think about how emotional these families are when their loved one is no longer at the dinner table every evening? Or how emotional Jerri Johnson is when she thinks about what would be her son's wedding day? I guess I just don't think it's asking too much for others to do the research and get to know some of these heroes and their families. Or better yet, why not step forward and support the families who will be affected by a tragedy just like Dana's. Unfortunately, it will happen again.

More Than A Race-Workout #2: For Jeremy Tighe, McCutchanville Fire Department (LODD-2/22/2012)

Workout # 2 is complete, but not without a little rain!  I live in east central Indiana and today was a wet one. No worries, though. I set out on another short run and completed it w/ a smile.  I did a total of 4 miles...2 running and 2 walking. Just trying to get back into the groove. My legs were sore from yesterday, and I know I've got a good 3 weeks before I actually can relax while I'm out there.  I must admit that running in honor of those who've died in the line of duty helps immensely. 

 Today's miles still averaged near 11 minutes each...not good, but I know it will get better. The goal isn't about time for me. The goal is about being healthy and completing this race proud of the work I've put in along the way, as well as making sure everyone understands the importance of those who work in public safety.  The individuals who serve us (police, fire, and EMS) put their lives on the line every day. They do so without thinking twice and without the promise of a hefty paycheck. They do it because they love it and are happiest when helping others. 

My workout today was dedicated to Jeremy Tighe from the McCutchanville Fire Department near Evansville, IN.  He passed away in the line of duty Wednesday, February 22, 2012.  He was born on February 23, 1993, in Bedford, Ohio.  Jeremy worked for the City of Evansville as a lifeguard since the age of 15.  He graduated Central High School in 2011, where he was on the swim team.  He was very involved with Young Life serving as a mentor.  Jeremy started with McCutchanville Fire Department in 2010.  He was Indiana State Certified Firefighter I, II, State Certified First Responder, State Certified EMT and member of the Indiana Volunteer Fireman's Association.  Jeremy was an avid firefighter; he lived at the firehouse and was very active in the day to day activities of the McCutchanville Fire Department.  He put everyone else in front of himself and everyone who knew Jeremy loved him. 

I've been honored to spend time with Jeremy's family on several occasions. There is no doubt they miss their son, brother, and friend. The following statement is from his mother, Jerri,
"My son Jeremy was very well rounded. He loved going to see local bands and loved being with friends. He decided at age 4 to be a fireman and lived his dream."

Firefighter Tighe was a passenger in a fire apparatus returning to quarters after a call. The apparatus slipped off the roadway, partially overturned, and struck a utility pole. Firefighter Tighe suffered fatal injuries. The driver of the apparatus was transported to a local hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. Jeremy was only 18 years old when he died in the line of duty, one day before his 19th birthday...much too young to leave us.

If you'd like to leave a tribute or say a few words in honor of Jeremy, you can do so here. I can assure that family members appreciate your support very much.

 

 

More Than A Race-Workout #1: For My Dad (Ronald Stephan-LODD 9/25/10)

My first workout is in the books, and IT WAS AMAZING!!  Since I have about 10 months to the race, I'm just trying to get in shape again. Tonight was an easy 2 mile run.  My average mile time was pathetic (11:55), but keep in mind I have done very little for a long time. LOL.  :)  I ran here in my hometown and finished at the HS track, a very fitting end for Dad, since he spent so much time at the school.  I thought about him a lot and that always makes me happy. I definitely felt his presence tonight!  I took a few pictures from before my run and after. Thanks for letting me share this journey with you.  And Dad, thanks for everything you have done and continue to do for me. I know you were w/ me the entire time tonight! <3

Day 1 - More Than A Race

I’m looking forward to my first day of training for the Indianapolis Mini Marathon.  Like a lot of other blogs, I want to post something before and after each workout. I know it will help hold me accountable for each day of training, but I also want to make it clear that this race is NOT just about me.  

For each day that I train, I will highlight a man or woman in public safety who died in the line of duty. I want to call attention to individuals who have sacrificed everything for you and me. I want to tell their story (with permission from their families) so that others can know them. These people who died are not just a statistic. They are family members, friends and colleagues. They loved their job, but had a life outside of that job, as well. I believe we owe it the heroes and their families to continue to celebrate their lives, as well as their spirit. 

So, since today is the first day of training and because I wouldn't be doing this if it wasn't for this man, I'm dedicating today’s workout to my dad, Ronald W. Stephan…known to many as Ron or simply, Bigfoot.

My dad was a big guy.  He stood 6’5” tall and wore a size 17 shoe, but the biggest part of him was his heart. He was/is the most giving man I’ve ever met.  Whether he was plowing driveways in the winter or running random errands for people, he wasn’t happy unless he was doing something for someone else…without any expectation of payment. In fact, he wouldn’t accept payment.

He grew up in small town, Indiana and graduated from Randolph Southern High School. He served during the Vietnam Conflict before making it home safely to farm full-time with his dad.  He was also an expert welder and could literally fix anything on the farm.  His greatest achievements were his kids and grandkids. My brother and I were his pride and joy until his two granddaughters came along, and they stole his heart.  Anyone who knew him would comment about how much he loved his family. That’s just who he was.

While he farmed close to a thousand acres with my grandpa and worked part-time doing odd jobs, he still wanted to do more. He joined the Lynn Volunteer Fire Department around 1985. He loved responding and helping others.  He missed very few runs…even in the middle of harvest or the coldest winters. His favorite part of serving was educating kids about fire safety.  He loved taking fire trucks to the elementary to help kids learn more about firefighters and their jobs.

In addition to serving on the fire department, he was also a school board member for a little over fifteen years. He loved handing out diplomas during graduation, as well as attending athletic events with my mom.  He had as much school spirit as any high school student.  He attended every sectional basketball game w/ green hair. (Green and white were our school colors.) He loved his community and would give back every chance he could. 

While it may sound like my dad was all work and no play, this couldn’t be further from the truth.  He understood that life was about balance.  He loved to hunt, fish, pull tractors and watch races.  He was passionate about his hobbies. He is the man who taught me about racing and the reason I, too love NASCAR today.  During the Brickyard, he’d put on his favorite Bill Elliott t-shirt, get up at the crack of dawn and wait patiently for a good picture or maybe even an autograph. Without a doubt, my dad was a just a big kid!

On September 25, 2010, my dad suffered a fatal heart attack and died in the line of duty after responding to a grass fire.  Many don’t realize it, but heart attacks are the leading cause of line of duty deaths in firefighters.  Doctors have spent years researching the effects of emergency responses on public safety workers, especially firefighters.  The evidence is overwhelming. The following report provides a few of the statistics, but just do a basic google search and you’ll see the connection.  http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20070321/firefighter-killer-heart-disease

While my dad died doing what he loved, I miss him every day. Tonight, I’m proud to run in honor of him.  I hope you’ll consider running or walking or going to the gym or doing anything healthy.  You don’t have to do it in honor of my dad, but think of all those who have died while protecting you and your friends.  If you're interested, you are invited to join my friends and me as we walk/run to honor our heroes in May.  We’d be glad to have you on our team! 

Why It's 'More Than A Race'

I'm not a life long runner, but some time after college I gave it a chance and found I enjoyed it. Long distances or races weren't my goal. I wanted to be healthy and lose some unwanted pounds. I enjoyed the quick 2-4 mile runs. I wasn't fast, but loved the peace that came with spending time alone with my thoughts. Running quickly became a habit, for a few years anyway.

Like we so often hear, other priorities took over the importance I placed on running. Initially it was a marriage, a job, a busy second job, but then an unexpected divorce.  It seemed my world was quickly changing and when I least expected my dad, a firefighter in Lynn, IN died in the line of duty less than a year after my husband left.  Running was no longer important. Surviving was my only objective. Unfortunately, I didn't realize how important one was to the other.

I spent a couple years learning to grieve and in the process took on a new job which led me to finding my passion...helping others who grieve. I work for an organization called Supporting Heroes.  This non profit organization helps families of police, fire and EMS workers who die in the line of duty in Indiana and Kentucky.  The staff members respond to every line of duty death in both states to provide the families with financial funding, as well as outreach and a host of other support mechanisms AT NOT COST to the family.  They were angels to my family. They just appeared and began helping us put our lives back together.  What many people don't understand is that the grieving process cannot begin if individuals are worried about the basic necessities in life, such as money, food, clothes.  That's what Supporting Heroes does...they take away those worries so that families can begin to process their grief. And then, they continue to support families long after the initial tragedy. THEY ARE AMAZING!

I offered to volunteer for Supporting Heroes, but with God's hand, I was fortunate enough to actually begin working for the organization in July, 2012. It is an honor to assist other families and help them in some way during such a terrible time. Not to mention, I am able to keep my dad's memory and spirit alive.  It's a truly amazing job.  

So, what does any of this have to do with the INdianapolis Mini Marathon in 2015??  Well, through my job I meet amazing people almost every day. One of those amazing people is Desirae Brown. She works in public safety and is organizing a fundraiser (The Heroes Challenge) for Supporting Heroes. Little did I know that she is a runner, too.  Her story is similar to mine and as it turns out, we both have a desire to get back into running, as well as get healthy again.  While joking around on social media, we decided to go on this journey to good health together and to do so with purpose.  We've committed to running the INdianapolis Mini Marathon on May 1, 2015, but we're not running it for us. We've decided to run this mini for those who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. We're 'Running For Them Because They Stood For Us'!  

We're going to track our training through this blog.  We'll also highlight those who've died in the line of duty during our training, too.  What better motivation is there than to run for those who've sacrificed it all, as well as their families who continue to struggle with the loss of their loved one. We'll share more about these heroes during our journey and hope that you will consider joining us on our quest to get healthy.  You can run with us or maybe even sponsor us if you feel so moved. 

I'll also spend some time sharing about Supporting Heroes.  They're the reason families in Kentucky and Indiana are able to connect and move forward in their grieving process.  In addition to that, we've got a few surprises we'll share along the way, too.  If you have ideas or suggestions, please share those with us! What makes this even more exciting is that Desirae and I live about 6 hours apart...so these blogs are just as much for us, as they are for you!  So, welcome to our journey!  Help us get healthy and celebrate those who gave their lives in the line of duty. BE SAFE!