September 11, 2001 is a day Americans, and perhaps the world, will never forget as long as we live. I know I won't, because every year I'm reminded that all heroes need to be remembered.
With so many side shows, political rabbit holes and people building their reputations around Ground Zero each year, sometimes it's hard to distinguish the rhetoric from what this day really commemorates: the sacred and righteous actions that occurred by all the courageous First Responders on behalf of our country and all of us that fateful day.
I want you to know about a powerful project, called Hero Portraits, whose core message seeks to ground this country's spirit in the "authentic energy" in this year's honoring of those who lost their lives on 9/11. The mission of Hero Portraits is a simple but daunting one; to donate a hand painted portrait to the family of every hero who has sacrificed to protect preserve or defend fellow citizens in the United States of America. To me, Hero Portraits peels off any illusionary agenda-filled layers, clears away all the smoke and mirrors and reminds us clearly and honestly what the day really is all about.
Engine 54, Ladder 4, Battalion 9- We Salute You
I am blessed to have so many wonderful things in my life. As you probably know by now, working with Family and Friendly First Responders aka "caregivers" of all cultures is my love and passion. These are the powerful, dedicated people who voluntarily and involuntarily take care of all those with chronic and terminal illnesses and disabilities. My cause is to advocate for their minds, bodies and souls as they embark on a sacred journey for others. They are my heroes and I gladly dedicate the rest of my life's work to them.
The reason, I use the term ‘First Responder' is to acknowledge the power and spirit of all First Responders who have dedicated or given their lives over our history. Their brave actions have been memorialized many times over and branded in our country's and the world's collective psyche. And so I include them in my ‘caregiving metaphor'.
My expanded work has afforded me the opportunity to meet incredible like-minded people and explore other avenues of advocacy, policy and related programs. Two of those I have had the pleasure of engaging with are Darrell and Kim Lynn, the founders of Hero Portraits. The Lynn's had been searching for a meaningful, accessible opportunity to give to their local and national community that reflected their life's work. They wanted to share with others because they had been so blessed in life with their children, grandchildren, family and friends. They had traveled the world including India, Japan, Croatia, Hong Kong, China and other third world countries trying to find the nameless opportunity that lived within their souls, only to find that the opportunity they were searching for was right in their backyard
Darrell Lynn, the founder of Hero Portraits believes, "It is time this country stands up and honors those that honor us." And that he does. Bless you, Darrell, for bringing us back to the meaning of that day, lest it be hijacked to bring in others' agendas.
Each year that we step back to honor the First Responders of September 11, 2001, we honor the epitome of "The" First Responder, the heroes who gave their lives on that fateful day to save others. This year, part of that celebration of their lives will officially actualize the Lynn's dream. With their boundless tenacity and fortitude, Darrell and Kim are making their dream come true for some special 9/11 families.
On September 10 at 10 AM in New York City the fifteen heroes from Engine 54, Ladder 4, Battalion 9 will be commemorated with the unveiling of a monumental group portrait, which will be presented to the firehouse. The "Pride of Midtown," located at 8th Avenue and 48th Street is often called the world's busiest Firehouse.
I am humbled to accept the very special honor the Lynns have bestowed on me. They have asked me to announce the names of the fifteen fallen firefighters during the ceremony. In the event press release, Darrell Lynn was quoted as saying, "In light of Dr. Huysman's efforts on behalf of all Family or Friendly First RespondersTM, we honestly couldn't think of a more appropriate person to do this," I melted. Those words will ring in my years the rest of my life.
I want all caregivers around the country to understand that when the words First Responders are used, they are being compared to the finest people our nation has ever known. You see, there really is no one more sacred in our society than the First Responder.
Make no mistake when you read the papers on September 12. Know that we were there for the fifteen heroes from Engine 54, Ladder 4, Battalion 9, their families and all the First Responders in our country who voluntarily gave and will give up their lives so the rest of us can live better ones.
Thank you Darrell and Kim Lynn for making this day happen. And, thank you Hero Portraits for reminding us of that fact. To find out more about Hero Portraits, go to www.HeroPortraits.org.
For all family caregivers, feel free to go to www.caregiver.com for their traditional September 11th edition, as well.
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