A Medic's Mind

In this episode of the podcast, "The Strange Case of the Blinking Body: A Paramedic's Horror Story", the narrator, a paramedic, shares the harrowing experience of responding to a call in a wooded area at night. Two hikers had reported a body that blinked at them, and the paramedics were tasked with investigating. As they descended into the dark ravine and made their way toward the body, the tension and unease grew. When they finally found the body, it was pale and ghostly, and then it blinked. The body was alive. The paramedics had to work quickly to save the person's life while also grappling with the eerie and unsettling circumstances surrounding the call.

#paramedicstories

#horrorstory

#truecrime

#firstresponder

#nightshift

#spookyseason

#creepyencounters

#blinkbody

#woods

#scarysight

Welcome to this episode of our podcast, where we'll be exploring the emotional and deeply personal story of Matthew Heneghan, a former Emergency Medical Services (EMS) paramedic who shares their experience of struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after leaving their job.

In this poignant episode, Matthew Heneghan shares their experience of dealing with PTSD, including the haunting memories that continue to affect their daily life. They speak candidly about the sense of purpose and control they felt while on the job, and the pain of losing that sense of identity.

The video also highlights the unexpected triggers that can set off flashbacks, and the difficulties of navigating new environments. As a paramedic, Matthew Heneghan was exposed to traumatic events that had a profound impact on their mental health, and they share their journey of seeking help and working towards healing.

The episode offers a raw and honest perspective on the toll that trauma can take on a person, and the ongoing journey of healing and self-acceptance. As listeners, we are invited to bear witness to this individual's story and to reflect on the importance of supporting those who have experienced trauma.

Join us as we delve into Matthew Heneghan's powerful story and explore the vital lessons that can be learned from their experience.

On this episode "Love Beyond Loss: A Story of Remembrance on Valentine's Day," I share some experience of Valentine's Day in 2018, just months after my mother's death and being single. I sought solace in alcohol but found none. I felt disconnected and invisible as the world around me celebrated love. A year later, sober and dressed in a blazer, I stood on stage to share my late mother's story and discovered the power of storytelling to keep loved ones alive. I received a polite standing ovation, and during the intermission, an old man shared how my story had reminded him of his mother's apple pie, a cherished memory of his own. In 2021, I found love and was spending a rare evening with a beautiful woman. This episode reminds us that while Valentine's Day can be painful for those who have lost loved ones, sharing their stories can keep their memories alive and bring comfort to others.

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a first responder, navigating the delicate line between life and death? Join us for an emotional and eye-opening journey as we follow the life of a paramedic in "When Death Meets Life: A Paramedic Story."

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the challenges and rewards of being a first responder through the eyes of a paramedic. From heart-wrenching resuscitations to moments of triumph, you'll gain a unique perspective on the crucial role these everyday heroes play in our communities.

Join us as we witness the bravery and compassion of these unsung heroes and gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices they make every day. You won't want to miss this emotional and inspiring journey. So click that subscribe button now and get ready to be moved by "When Death Meets Life: A Paramedic Story."

Welcome to "The Honk." Join us as we explore the charming small town of mystery and marvels, where the locals are proud of their quiet way of life, but something special is brewing just beneath the surface. From the emerald summer days to the crisp autumnal evenings, the town is always alive with wonder. But one event in particular has captured our hearts - the nightly honk of a work truck and its friendly driver. Follow us as we unravel the mystery behind this heartwarming tradition and discover the beauty of pure human connection in the unlikeliest of places.

In this video, we explore the emotional toll of being trapped in the shadow of a murder scene. From the initial shock and disbelief, to the lingering unease and fear, we delve into the mind of someone who has been deeply affected by such a traumatic event. Through personal accounts and expert analysis, we uncover the long-term effects of being witness to such a heinous act, and the ways in which individuals can begin to heal and move forward. This is a powerful and thought-provoking video that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the human experience in the aftermath of tragedy.

Join us as we explore the feeling of melancholy that often comes with the end of the holiday season. We'll discuss the struggles of saying goodbye to the joy and excitement of the past month, but also dive into ways to find positivity and hope for the year ahead. From setting new goals to finding new traditions, we'll explore the ways to make the transition into the new year a positive one. Whether you're feeling down or just looking for some inspiration, this episode is for you.

Welcome to the show. Today, we are talking about one of the most difficult things we will ever have to do -- saying goodbye. Whether it's to a loved one, a place, or a phase in our lives, saying goodbye is never easy. And when it's someone as close as a sister, the pain and grief can be overwhelming. Today, we are sharing a story about a my journey through grief after losing my sister. For me, January 5th marks the third anniversary of that loss, and I share how I has navigated the ups and downs of mourning and how my sister continues to be a presence in my life. I hope that by sharing this story, I can provide some comfort and support to anyone who is also going through the difficult process of saying goodbye.

#grief #loss #sayinggoodbye #mourning #sister #anniversary #pain #upsanddowns #support #comfort #difficulttimes #sisterhood

It was a typical winter's day. Snow softly blanketed the city as a gentle ringing of church bells echoed through the streets. The smell of pine needles, gingerbread, and nutmeg drifted through the air and the cheerful laughter of children adorned the landscape. But for one young boy, this Christmas season would be like no other. Join us as we look back on this special memory in our feature presentation, A Christmas Memory: Reflections of a Christmas Past.

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This episode of a Medic's Mind and Spooky September is all about the infamous, terrifying and ghastly, Burlington Ripper! A serial killer with a dark and twisted side that no one suspected. Is he a vampire? Or, is her some ill-illusioned occultist? Only time will tell...

If you enjoy scary stories about vampires, then this story is for you. With his insatiable lust for blood, and those hunting him, the story of the Burlington Ripper is truly a fright. Vermont may not be New Orleans, but the woods outside of that quiet little town are just as horrifying.

#SpookySeptember #amedicsmind #spookystory #horrorstories #vermont #burlington #ripper

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Constable Andrew Hong was tragically killed in the line of duty on September 12th, 2022. He was just 48 years old. Constable Hong was conducting officer training when the heinous event took place. Constable Hong was a dedicated and hard-working police officer who was loved by his colleagues and community. He is said to be have been a "gentle giant" of a man. This episode is a tribute to Constable Andrew Hong, and a reminder that we must never forget the sacrifices made by our police officers.

It also confronts the callous nature of online rhetoric that surrounds our police officers, especially during times such as these.

#AndrewHong #PoliceShooting #Toronto #ThinBlueLine

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It's no secret that the dating world can be tough. With so many different dating apps and websites, it can be difficult to find someone who's right for you. And even if you do find someone, it's not guaranteed that things will work out.  But what if there was a way to make the dating world a little bit easier? What if you could approach your next date with a positive mindset, knowing that things will work out, even if they don't? It's easy to fall into the trap of negativity when it comes to exes and dating anew. It's much harder, yet so much more rewarding, to cultivate a positive mind-shift when it comes to being wronged, abused, mistreated or misled by someone you once cared so deeply for.

So, how do we do that? How do we maintain or create a positive outlook amidst so much pain and mistrust? Well, it's not easy... but it's doable. Lets discuss.

#karma #lawofattraction #mindsetmatters #podcast

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A Canadian department store that was once a staple in every shopping mall across the country, Zellers has been closed for years. But for many Canadians, it holds a special place in their hearts. This video looks at one such memory from my childhood, and explores the nuance of why its significant to me. Also, there may be some spilled milk...   

It was a busy week for A Medic's Mind. This is a conversational episode where I tell you about my week and the happenings within it.

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August 11th is a day replete with nuanced emotion for me. It's a day to remember those who have served our country and given the ultimate sacrifice. Today, we remember the fallen, but we also remember the living. The soldiers who have returned from war, but who are still fighting the battle within.  This is a soldier's story. A story of grief, remembrance, and hope. A story that reminds us of the human cost of war and the importance of supporting our veterans.

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Come explore with me one of my favorite places on earth - The Wharf in downtown Salmon Arm. From the iconic Prestige Hotel next door to the houseboats and ice cream stand, there's always something to do and see. If you're ever in the Okanagan/Shuswap, be sure to check it out!

#adayatthewharf #sfs #sanfrancisco #bayarea #lovethiskity #ilovemycity

Episode 237 takes a look at the Johnny Depp and Amber Heard trial, and how that relates to me (and likely many others out there as well).

This is a #MeToo story, and focuses on a particular event that once transpired in my life. 

This story takes place well before 2022, but stands against the passage of time and serves as a relevant talking point today.

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So, he got in one little fight and now he has to live with his auntie in Bel-Air...

All jokes aside, I discuss impulse control and my thoughts on whether I felt #WillSmith was justified in hitting #ChrisRock... (I don't).

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With all that has been unfolding over the last several weeks, it has become evident to me that within the online realm along within the world as a whole, we could stand to see a little more empathy. And that's what I hope to do with this latest post -- cultivate a more positive disposition alongside a show of a support for the people of Ukraine.

#Ukraine #PeaceNotWar #Empathy #NotToWar

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Things are really polarized right now, but what do we do when those close to us begin to spill their negativity onto us in a way that becomes detrimental to our own functionality? I discuss this and more on this episode of, A Medic's Mind.

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Well, things are a little spicy at the moment, aren't they? On this episode I break down some thoughts, views and opinions I have on divisive rhetoric and double standards toward people. It's completely possible for two things to exist at the same time while being true; we seem to have lost that school of thought.

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CBC interview with Matthew Heneghan (former Canadian Armed Forces medic now author), and Phil Hunter (former Canadian Armed Forces medic now paramedic).  Natasha Fatah hosts two former medics who have never met, yet hold an intimate bond bound by the threading of an old Edmonton Oilers t-shirt.

YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Br-ASzY0iY&t=1s

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This last Christmas while perusing the vastness of interweb cat videos, I came across a list. It captivated my attention because the list claimed to pertain to coping with PTSD. But upon reading the list, which was a virtual "how to" for family members living with someone afflicted by PTSD, the more the list began to read as problematic to me. So, I decided that I was going to read this list with all of you and we could discuss it together.

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Written with homage to, Frank Capra's, It's a Wonderful Life, this story takes personal experience and retrofits it to fiction. This is the, A Medic's Mind Christmas Special!

Merry Christmas, everyone.

#itsawonderfullife #christmas2021 #holidayseason #christmasspecial

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Seasonal depression; what is it? How do you get it? More importantly, how do you get rid of it? I give you some of my insights and what I am doing for myself through this busy holiday season. Join me, see if you can relate.

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By now everyone knows the name, Rittenhouse. Now, this episode is not about the trial, nor the actions that lead to it. No, this is about the egregious double standard that is plaguing our social space today, and likely has been for many years prior.

#kyleRittenhouse #DoubleStandard #LeBronJames #MentalHealth

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Remembrance Day is once again upon us. For many veterans, myself included, this day is one rife with complexity and nuance. For me, over the years and in the course of therapy, I have found that the best way for me to navigate the day and lead up to it, is to truly feel, accept and acknowledge what it is that I am feeling. As attempting to thwart emotion is a fruitless endeavour. So, I write. Shocking, I know…

This episode tells of three men whom I had the privilege of getting to know over my time in the army. Three men who are now only with us in mind and heart. Three men who made the ultimate sacrifice for you and I. For all of us.

This is, Remembrance Day.

#RemembranceDay2021 #Veteran #CanadianArmedForces #Poppy

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This past week has been a busy one; hence why there was no episode released last week. But, I am back and boy oh boy, do I have a story for you!

Recovery can be a complicated thing. It can also be friggin hilarious!!! Check out why on this episode of, A Medic's Mind the Podcast!

#recovery #mentalhealth #firstresponder #GetLoudOnMentalHealth

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Hey, all. Happy Thanksgiving!!! I know, I know — a little late. Let's just say it's been a bit of a conflicting few days for me...

That being said, I firstly wanted to say — thank you — you all are always so kind and supportive of my videos and work.

I wanted to take a moment and share with you my latest video narration about Thanksgiving and the swirl of emotions that come with it. When sitting down to write this, I became increasingly humbled by the waves of gratitude that befell me line by line...

Here is, Remembering Gratitude.

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Well, it was quite the weekend for me... I killed a mouse, and I stacked some wood. How is that relative to a podcast about mental health and recovery? Tune in and have a listen; it may just be more relevant than you think!

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No matter your stance on vaccine mandates, restrictions or the virus, I think where we should be able to find common ground, is in comprehending that we are in control of our own actions. We get to decide how we are going to navigate our day to day. We may not be able to control the externals, but we are responsible for our interaction with them. And with that, we should be able to agree — DON'T BE AN A**HOLE!!!

I share an anecdote with you as I recover from the 2nd dose of Moderna. (Spoiler: I feel like poo).

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!!!NOT A POLITICAL POST — PROMISE!!!

As is with all things political these days, the fallout of recent elections has garnered some very noticeable hostilities from differing perspectives. I wanted to weigh in on why I think placing value on a person based on their political leanings may be an erroneous thing to do.

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It can be difficult to see how lucky we are sometimes. Over this past week, I fell into that trap of absorbing only the bad. Feelings of self-loathing and subjective self-pitty were my most intimate of companions during that 7 day stretch.

But, as all things do, change came to me. Living with PTSD can bring about unique challenges and hurdles to navigate. It can also remind me of just how fortunate I really am...

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So, if you didn’t already know, I am a HUGE Halloween fan. In fact, as soon as September hits, my “watched” playlist across all streaming devices quickly shifts to all things macabre and deliciously spooky. This year, I tried my hand at crafting a story of my own.  I have always been curious about why we carve pumpkins, and throughout my search, I was confronted with captivating tales of a man named, Jack. I wrote, narrated and produced this story. It’s a little long, but if you want some help getting into the most frightfully festive time of year, have a listen and see what you think.  Ladies and gentleman, I introduce you to, a man named, Jack!

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The news has been a tough place to ingest as of late. From forest fires, protests, viruses and now, Afghanistan. To say that I have been experiencing a swirl of emotion would be to exercise understatement.

This episode I dive into the symbolism of empty chairs and what they mean to me. Hopefully, by the end of this episode, you will have a better understanding of what I have been going through, and perhaps even be able to relate in your own way.

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On the 4th of August 2021, my family and I were evacuated from our home due to the White Rock Lake fire currently ravaging B.C.'s interior.  Being evacuated is a new experience for me and having once been a first responder myself, it drew feelings of inadequacy from within me. No longer being the one to rush in, to ease and calm chaos, instead being one of the many in need... it made an already troubling situation that much more trying.

#whiterocklakefire #BCWildfires #FalklandStrong #Highway97Strong #BCWFS 

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With the Olympics in full swing, and 2021 being what it is, there is no shortage of contestable occurrences at this years sporting extravaganza. And when athletes are questioned on the legitimacy of their mental health claims, its forces me to look inward at my own judgements, not only toward me, but others as well. So, on today's show, we discuss mental health, barriers, boundaries and expectations.

Oh, and Matt Walsh doesn't think boys should cry. We'll get into that, too.

#NaomiOsaka #SimoneBiles #Tokyo2021 #MattWalsh #MentalHealth  

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On this episode I reminisce about when I was just starting out as a "baby doc." Driving lights and sirens may sound like a lot of fun, and sure, part of that assertion is true. But it also comes with a heaping dollop of vexation and stress.

Listen through to the end to find out how I learned that I could drive for, NASCAR!!!

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Today (July 6th) is historically a tough day for me. It holds on a painful reminder of what was taken some years ago. And on each passing year, I try my best to share stories and experiences that I had with a hero...

On July 6th of 2008, Private Colin WIlmot was killed while on mission in Afghanistan. I knew this man. Served with this man. Drank beer, shared laughs and even cried with this man. He was and remains one of the most important figures in my life.

And to segue on from there, I light the Blue Jays baseball club up for their apathy and disregard for one of their city's heroes. Stick around and have a listen to this episode of, A Medic's Mind.

On this episode we discuss the macabre sense of humor that is often concatenates itself to first responders. I share some anecdotes and opinion on the matter in hopes of peeling away some of the obfuscating nature of what dark humor is, and why it is so vital to those in service.

With the abomination of heat that we currently find ourselves suffering through right now, it felt like the right time to release a summer themed episode. Again, this one on the lighter end of the spectrum. So, I think it would not be horrible advice to say; go grab a beverage, a nice cold beverage, sit back and allow me to inform you of a place I know hauntingly as: The Creeper house!

This past weekend I experienced camping for the first time since I was in the army. I also experienced another first in camping with children. Which is a whole other ballgame.

Join me on this episode as I breakdown the good, the bad and the downright ugly of it all.

Summer is fast approaching and that means, heat, long days, warm nights and of course... memories. For me, Summer's can be tough to navigate. But this year I am trying out something a little different—instead of angrily staring back at the sun or trying to hide from it—I am going to embrace it! Relive, reexperience and retell my life's more, lighthearted moments spent beneath the cascading sun.

And today's episode is the start of that trend!

Enjoy!

Yeah... it's been quite the week...

This episode contains a blog read from my most recent blog post over at amedicsmind.com. As the days get longer and the heated days of summer approach, being back home in B.C., I can't help but to ruminate just a little bit. This was one of the funniest stories that I have ever had the privilege of recording for the podcast. I hope you enjoy it.

On this episode I discuss my viewpoints on what it means to be "California Sober," a term coined by singer/song writer, Demi Lovato.

On this episode I have a blog read about an event that took place recently for me. Being in a relationship can be difficult. Being in a relationship with PTSD can at times be even more so...

On this episode I may ramble a bit. But, I hope that my overall message comes through - sometimes, it's okay to not be okay - but we have to reach out for help, and it is imperative that we focus on the root causes of issues at hand - not just the symptoms.

Don't forget, you can message me right here on Anchor using the "message" button located on screen!

On this 200th episode of the A Medic's Mind podcast, I delve into how grateful I am to be here at this milestone. I thank the audience and I discuss some of the other and arguably more meaningful things that I have learned in 200 episodes of the podcast.

Inspired by the works of Stephan Pastis, and his latest film adaptation of his book; Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made, I wrote and recorded this story for episode 199 of the podcast.

This episode discusses what it's like for medical professionals to sit down and watch the TV exploits of dramatized medical shows. Spoiler... it can be difficult! :)

It was a bit of a gamble to release the podcast episode I did last week, but my intent was always to release them as a two-parter. I hope this one brings it all together and more in focus of how I have been feeling as of late.

Oh no! What the hell am I doing?! Don't worry; this is not as bad as it sounds and it's likely (hopefully) a topic that we will not have to revisit anytime soon.

This is, however, likely to stir some debate - and that's fine! Debate is healthy. In fact, that's part of what I talk about in this episode.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy it or at the very least, come away with something from it. 

Cheers.

This episode of A Medic's Mind is an oration episode where I delve into a near death experience (not really, but kinda...) As well as giving your a glimpse into how I spent my Valentine's Day.

This is episode 194 of the A Medic's Mind Podcast. On this episode I discuss my thoughts and feelings about how words can have a distinct power over us. This past week I received some news that was at best, jarring and confusing to digest. So, I did what I always do—I wrote!

I hope you can take something away from this one.

Cheers.

Hey everyone. So, tomorrow is my birthday and I thought I'd share some of my thoughts, views and feelings with you about it. This episode contains a blog read that I wrote, produced and narrated. I hope you enjoy it.

On this episode I have a sample chapter for my upcoming book; A Medic's Mind: Love, Loss and All Things In-Between.

This has been in the works for some time now and is in its final stages of editing and crafting. I hope you enjoy it.

Today is also Bell Lets Talk day here in Canada. So the theme of mental health and conversation and its importance is spoken of here in the preamble to the show. Please, reach out to someone if you are in need.

This episode of the podcast is a blog read that was inspired by an event that happened to me recently. A Triggering of my PTSD symptomology by something so objectively innocuous and my feelings surrounding the event.