Mission
We are 809 Fight for Awareness. Our mission is to increase compassion and aid for those living with mental health challenges, and to promote optimal mental health in first responders through peer support and advocacy.
Why We Fight
As active duty firefighters, we understand first responders enjoy a camaraderie others don’t. We also understand first responders see things the average person doesn’t, and if untreated, those experiences can lead to post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and in some cases, suicide. In fact, as of 2017, firefighter suicides began exceeding line of duty deaths, and in the years since, they have continued to do so.
For firefighters, law enforcement officers, paramedics, and other first responders – as well as their families – the stigma surrounding mental health issues can be a barrier to getting treatment. Not wanting to call attention to their struggle, they may adopt a tough exterior, preferring instead to focus on the job, and denying that they might be in need of treatment or that their symptoms may be complicating their ability to function physically and/or mentally.
Our goal is to increase understanding of addiction and other mental health disorders, to provide a forum to safely share experiences, to help connect first responders with those living with similar issues, and to allow the public to step forward to share their own stories and to offer support. We do this all in an environment free of judgment so that our brothers and sisters know they don’t need to fight mental health struggles on their own.
According to mentalhealthfirstaid.org, in a nationwide survey of more than 2,000 first responders, 85 percent reported mental health symptoms. One-third reported clinical diagnoses of depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
More firefighters and police officers died by suicide as a result of work-related trauma in 2017 than in the line of duty, according to the Ruderman White Paper on Mental Health and Suicide of First Responders.
Research studies have suggested that the rate of PTSD among first responders may be between 15% and 30%. As an overall figure, it is estimated that about 20% of all individuals with the diagnosis of PTSD will also have a co-occurring substance use disorder.
The families of first responders are often the silent victims. Research has shown if a parent is suffering from PTSD, their children can begin to show the very same signs, and spouses or significant others may have their own trauma histories, which are re-activated when their loved ones experience a traumatic event.
“It ain’t about how hard you can hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.”
- Rocky Balboa
Our Story
On September 21, 2019, 500 people gathered to witness the Battle for Mental Health – the first outdoor boxing exhibition between first responders staged in Pasadena – in Centennial Square at City Hall. Over $31,000 had been raised, and in the process, lifelong bonds had been forged.
Just two months prior, we had come up with the idea to bring awareness to the complex trauma sustained by first responders, and as firefighters, we knew it had to be an athletic event. Boxing seemed a natural fit, as a sport that requires not only physical strength and stamina, but also discipline, control, and the ability to think strategically under pressure – not unlike firefighting or police work.
Given the success of our inaugural event, we became a federally-recognized 501(c)(3), and we’ve continued to build on the movement we’ve started. COVID-19 knocked us down for our 2020 and 2021 events, but it didn’t knock us out. We welcomed 1,000 attendees at our 2022 event, and raised nearly $50,000 - all of which went toward funding peer support programs and connecting first responders in need with culturally-competent mental health professionals who provide confidential therapy services. Our dinner events and other fundraisers continue to sell out, and we’re so grateful for the support we receive from our community.
We hope you join us in our endeavor of helping our brothers and sisters get the support they need and deserve, free from judgment or stigma.
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Our Team
Erik Hernandez—President, Social MediA
Erik was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, and is a Pasadena City firefighter (Local 809). As he’s grown into his career, he’s developed the same passion for helping first responders as he has for those who call 9-1-1. As a father and husband, he wants nothing more than to grow old with his family and enjoy a long and healthy career, and he wishes the same for every first responder.
Maggie Hernandez—Comms, treatment Coordinator
Maggie was raised in Los Angeles and is a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT 139332) As a fire wife and mom of two, she has unique insight into the lives of first responders, and she’s seen firsthand the toll the job can take on first responder families. This led her to work with the first responder and military communities, as well as survivors of complex trauma.