42_A PTSD Journey through the Eyes of a Paramedic by Founder of DOHP, Derek O. Hanley

Derek O. Hanley is a paramedic and prior military combat medic, author of the book Photos From The Front Lines, and the founder of DOHP.net.

Social Media:

• Website: DOHP.net
• Instagram: @thatsdohp
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekohanley
• SF Chronicle feature: https://datebook.sfchronicle.com/art-exhibits/photographer-documents-alameda-county-first-responders-in-time-of-pandemic-protest
• EMS World feature: https://www.hmpgloballearningnetwork.com/site/emsworld/feature-story/your-job-captured-photos
• Link to book materials: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/gf609gsaq6wbru7/AAA0YtGRDLc6HUmpQhlle0OLa?dl=0

Derek O. Hanley is a paramedic and prior military combat medic, author of the book Photos From The Front Lines, and the founder of https://www.dohp.net/. Derek endeavors to increase honor and respect for medics in society through photography and visual media.  After serving in the US Air Force as a paramedic and instructor, he worked as a civilian paramedic in New York and served a tour with the Army National as a combat medic and instructor. During his service, Derek received many commendations, including the Army Achievement medal, and a nomination for division soldier of the year. He has feature-length credits for cinematography, photography, and sound. Derek’s photos have also been heavily published in EMS World Magazine.

I saw so many similarities with Derek’s journey and my own. I really enjoyed this conversation. I could have chatted with him for hours longer I feel like. He articulates his journey so well. Listening to him describe the feelings of being burnt out and how he was fearful of it having a negative impact on his ability to operate resonated with me. It reminded me of that conversation I had with myself in Afghanistan after hitting our third IED in a few weeks. I remember something broke inside and for the first time ever I felt fear creep in. That fear never left. Like most fear in my life, I was able to move past it but it was always subtly nagging at me. I often wondered if it was also subtly influencing my decisions I made and if it would negatively impact my process in disarming IEDs. 

Resources Mentioned:

• The Body Keeps The Score - Bessel Van Der Kolk (A game changing book on trauma)

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