Episode 20 "Breaking the Silence: Search & Rescue Mental Health, Alan's Story & the Fight for Volunteer First Responder Support"

What happens when the rescuer needs rescuing?

In this powerful episode of The Valley Voice with Jessica Self, we sit down with Alan LaBissoniere, President of Regional Special Vehicles Unit and Carrie Lee Gagnon, Executive Director of King County Search and Rescue, from King County Search and Rescue KCSARA to talk about the reality behind the mission—what it really means to serve on the front lines as a volunteer first responder.

Alan shares his deeply personal mental health journey, opening up about the pressure, the crash after calls, and the moment everything came to a breaking point. His vulnerability is not only courageous—it’s already creating change.

Together, we explore:

    •    The hidden mental health challenges in search and rescue

    •    Why volunteer responders fall through the cracks without benefits or support

    •    How Alan’s story is sparking the beginning of a larger movement

    •    Efforts underway to build mental health resources locally, statewide, and beyond

This conversation goes beyond search and rescue—it’s about humanity, resilience, and redefining what support should look like for those who show up when others are in crisis.

If you’ve ever wondered what it costs to be the one who saves others… this episode is a must-listen.

jessicaself.com

sarposium.com

thebridgerecovery.com

travishowze.com

kingcountysar.org

rsvu.org

northbenddowntown.org

olympichottub.com