The central focus of this presentation is a reflection on my 20 years of walking alongside families and, in turn, first responders during the immediate moments of loss. Over the course of my career, I have come to understand the importance of an “inward before outward” approach, a valuable lesson in learning how to care for ourselves and our own families at a deeper level. This foundation becomes the very tool that enables us to effectively answer the call to serve others.

Through this process, I have learned how to remain emotionally engaged in the meaningful work we pursue, while also maintaining the healthy balance of not becoming emotionally attached to the outcomes experienced by those we serve. 

The presentation is a combination of story telling and tangible take aways that can be introduced into the regular practices of our personal lives and careers.

Speaker: Jeremy Allen, Funeral Director, Death Ed. & Gregory’s Funeral Home Inc.aker: Jeremy Allen, Funeral Director, Death Ed. & Gregory’s Funeral Home Inc.