Although flying is one of the safest modes of transportation, accidents do
happen, and when they do, the aftermath is devastating. With today's 24-
hour media access, we are bombarded by images of twisted metal, debris
and personal belongings, smoldering away in a seemingly endless nightmare.
Aviation disasters are like no other. The sudden loss of life gives rise to
emotions that are both powerful and unfamiliar. How do survivors and family
members blend this horrific experience into their lives? Each person is different
in how they handle their grief, but in the end, they all share one common
distinction - RESILIENCE. As an Emergency Response Manager involved in
eight high-profile aviation accidents, I have been forever changed by the
compassion and empathy of the survivors, family, and fellow responders.
