tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363425283220898772024-03-14T09:13:14.058-07:00Healing the Hero's HeartAs the 9/11 tragedy began unfolding thousands of miles away from her California home, little did Sue Okenyi know that her life would soon become intricately woven within the lives of so many of New York’s Finest and Bravest – FDNY firefighters, NYPD and Port Authority police officers.
http://www.healingtheherosheart.com/Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-63933732234402520682016-02-04T10:26:00.001-08:002016-02-04T10:26:09.951-08:00Website Email ProblemsGood Morning,<br />
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I have discovered a problem with my website email. It has caused me to not receive notification of book orders. I discovered this as I am still able to get notifications via the contact form on the website. Those messages go to my personal email. If you have tried to contact me via my website email, or submitted a book order and have not heard back or received anything, please let me know via the contact form on the website or by emailing me at sueokenyi@sbcglobal,net. I am working with my webhost to resolve the problem. My apologies for any inconvenience.<br />
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Best Regards,<br />
<br />
Sue OkenyiSue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-76686309079007184162014-11-11T12:58:00.001-08:002014-11-11T12:58:14.341-08:00Today we honor all Veterans. Thank you to all of you who have served in the Military. Who have dedicated your lives to keeping our country safe. God bless and keep you all.<br />
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Both my Grandfathers and several great uncles fought in WWII. One uncle fought in Korea. Another uncle in Vietnam. One of my grandfathers was also a volunteer fire fighter. Love and peace to you all.<br />
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Blessings,<br />
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Sue Okenyi<br />
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<br />Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-7726726756974243842014-09-09T12:18:00.002-07:002014-09-09T12:18:50.613-07:00Back on!Hello,<br />
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This message is to anyone that may have tried to contact me in recent months and was unable to. My email was locked up and just now got reopened. I apologize for any inconvenience and for not responding in a timely manner to your messages. Everything should be working smoothly now.<br />
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Best Regards,<br />
<br />
Sue OkenyiSue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-28563905898942710982012-11-12T09:52:00.001-08:002012-11-12T10:07:03.517-08:00Rebuilding after Hurricane SandyOur hearts and prayers go out to all those effected by this terrible occurance. Please know this is not an act of God. God loves us. One way I figure I can help in the healing being that I am on the West Coast is to send proceeds from my book. So from now through Christmas, from any book sales I will send $15.00 to the Rebuild Staten Island Project. I learned about this through the postings of one of the three fire fighters who raised the flag at Ground Zero pictured in the now iconic picture we have all seen. So I trust it. You can find out more by going to <a href="http://www.rebuildstaten-island.com/">www.rebuildstaten-island.com</a>. Since this is basically on Facebook another website you can check out about this is <a href="http://www.wepay.com/donatetions/reubild-staten-island.com">www.wepay.com/donatetions/reubild-staten-island.com</a>. And if buying a book is not the way you choose to donate, buy one of their shirts or donate to your local Red Cross or Salvation Army location. <br />
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God Bless and Keep you Safe.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-57045640336620994712012-08-09T22:27:00.002-07:002012-08-09T22:27:23.496-07:00To those of you who feel I'm out for profit - here is some history behind my book.It recently really hit home what my roadblock is getting this book taken seriously. I'm unknown. No duh. But I'm not a fire fighter, not a member of the fire community. But I am a friend. A friend to fire fighters. <br />
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It was the fateful day of September 11, 2001. The attacks unfolded. I watched on TV from California like so many. Minding my own business helping out with the fundraising efforts at work. A 9/11 publication of the company magazine was created. I handle the mailing list for that magazine. Suddenly I found myself deep in the throws of listening to survivors - primarily the surviving members of the different agencies. I became a listening ear. <br />
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I gained a lot of friendships. One of those friendships with an FDNY member was one - I was 3,000 miles away, he didn't know my face - I was a safe place to unload. I shared with him how I had people praying for all the survivors but for him specifically because I heard from him so much. I told him how some said I should write a book one day of what I was hearing. I told him this with no intent of doing so. None. Period. I'm not a writer. But once I had said this to him from time to time he said I should do it. <br />
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After a while he became persistant that I should do it. So out of the friendship I did. The idea has always been to support some kind of charity. Not for my profit. I got the backing of my company behind me and was able to produce the book. But the company was selling by the time I was going to print. And the support that I was promised in the beginning was greatly reduced. Still I'm grateful for what support they did give me. As the book was being printed I asked fire fighters what were good charities to support. <br />
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I heard about the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation which is the umbrella for all Critical Incident Stress Management groups. This organization helps rescue workers debrief after a tough call. They respond to tragic events, natural disasters, etc. They help rescue workers and civilians alike on those instances. So I thought great I'll support them. <br />
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I was told about the New York Rescue Workers Detoxification Project Co Founded and Co Chaired by Tom Cruise. Controversial because of whom runs it and where the idea for it came from. But its a program that works. That has saved and prolonged lives of our fire and police. Those that would agree to the program. I felt if I can support these two organizations I'm helping both the physical, spiritual and emotional well being of our rescue workers. <br />
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I also like Fire Fighters For Christ. I'm friends with them and support them. They don't sell books. That is policy. So with these already non profit organizations<em>, </em>I have felt I'll just support them. Becoming a 501C is not easy. And from what I learned I have thought it best to just support those already established. Now one problem arises. Being believed that I'm not out for profit. <br />
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But to support them I have to have revenue. I have to sell books. I put the book expense, the editing, the formating, the printing, etc. on credit cards. It coast me thousnads and took 3 credit cards to cover. Thankfully I now have it down to one. But I pay hundreds of dollars on that account monthly to pay the minimum payment. I have to promote if I'm going to get anyone to notice the book. That takes money. I have to travel to promote. That takes money. When you only sell 2 or 3 books a month, there is no money to support any charity, any non-profit, there is no money to pay the bills. So more and more every month comes out of my regular job income that I have to keep up. I have to have money to do it. I have to get paid or I can't do it. <br />
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Yet from I have learned about Fire Fighter culture, I get it. I understand. No one should profit off the tragedy of others. And really no one should want to. 9/11 was a tragedy that left many people raw with emotion, raw with hurt. Most especially anyone who suffered the loss of a loved one or colleague. And that does not apply solely to New Yorkers. People accross the nation lost loved ones that day. <br />
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I was asked-pushed to write. That FDNY member that pushed the idea was not intending to gain from it either. He also put forth revenue to try to help me out. To the point I told him to stop because once I pay my debt off to the credit card company, I want to see his contribution restored to him! <br />
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It's been tough. Instantly fire fighters that no nothing about me believe I'm out for profit. The message of the book is very important and not like any other 9/11 book out there. It was the distance, the fact that I live in California and not New York that makes it important, unique. The company I work for inadvertantly provided an outlet for many of those personally effected to vent. And I was the one on the other end of the phone or email. As one other FDNY member told me - there was no where to go. Everyone there was going through the same thing. Coming out to California, communicating with the West Coast provided a necessary release. <br />
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Members of the Fire Department and Police Department. EMS Workers. I'm your friend. I'm a listening ear. You have my deapest respect. 9/11 brought me into your world through no choice of my own. My book is meant to shed light, for those outside to see that while yes you are trained to do what you do. No amount of training can truly prepare for some of what you face. I want to support you any way I can. That is why I went ahead and wrote the book. So please before you judge get to know me. <br />
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God Bless and Stay Safe.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-66290560598388381562012-08-04T21:06:00.002-07:002012-08-04T21:06:26.093-07:009/11 Memorial - Greenville WisconsinAugust 25, there will be a new 9/11 Memorial dedication in Greenville Wis. This has been a labor of love by one of my high school classmates along with the AM Vets, the Greenville Fire Department and Fox Valley Technical Institute. I will be attending. Hope to see you there!Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-69811574016733459762011-03-20T19:18:00.000-07:002011-03-20T19:19:29.242-07:00Back upHey All,<br /><br />My email for the website is working again.<br /><br />Blessings,<br /><br />Sue OkenyiSue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-15113770296979064822011-03-15T20:42:00.000-07:002011-03-15T20:47:01.258-07:009/11 Patch Project and Bus Tour - March 21, 2011Hello Again,<br /><br />For anyone interested, a touching memorial on wheels is traveling the United States. The tour is called "Manhattan to Manhattan" - Manhattan Beach California to Manhattan New York. Craig Freeman is a retired Oxnard Fire Captain who founded Firecareers.com. He is working in conjunction with the 9/11 Patch Project to bring awareness to the 10th anniversary of 9/11. A day that will live in infamy for whom many are still suffering the long term effects of the health problems. The Tour will stop in at the California Memorial on the Pelco by Schneider Electric campus. It will be there from 1 to 4 in the afternoon. Please come and show support.<br /><br />Regards,<br /><br />Sue OkenyiSue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-71766391755362374692011-03-15T20:41:00.001-07:002011-03-15T20:42:25.785-07:00Email AlertHello,<br /><br />I have been having trouble lately with my website email. For the interim please contact me at <a href="mailto:sueokenyi@sbcglobal.net">sueokenyi@sbcglobal.net</a>. I apologize for the inconvenience.<br /><br />Regards,<br /><br />Sue OkenyiSue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-25179729064683856772010-09-11T23:42:00.001-07:002010-09-11T23:44:03.161-07:00September 11, 2010To all who endured this time 9 years ago, to all who lost loved ones and friends, and to all that worked Ground Zero, you are held in my heart. May God continue to pour out His Holy Spirit upon you and bring healing and peace to your lives. In Jesus Name! Amen.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-17656879835587892082010-04-08T21:09:00.000-07:002010-04-08T21:27:47.008-07:00Health Issues for the 9/11 First Responders and EMSMy heart is grieved for the many First Responders and EMS still suffering since 9/11. Right now I want to pray for them.<br /><br />Heavenly Father,<br /><br />We lift up every person suffering from the effects of 9/11/2001. We lift up before you every illness, every respiratory problem, every bit of depression. To the spirit of infirmity we command you to shrivel and die. Leave the bodies of God's people now. Go back to the pit of hell from which you came. Your assignment is done. Spirit of depression, leave! Now in the name of Jesus. <br /><br />Holy Spirit come. Pour out on your children. Comforter, come sooth their hearts. Heavenly Father bring restoration in the name of your Son Jesus.<br /><br />We thank you and praise you. In Jesus Name. Amen.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-81543976531807314672009-09-10T21:06:00.000-07:002009-09-10T21:09:02.202-07:00Eight YearsKeeping all those personally effected by the attacks of 9/11/2001 in my thoughts and prayers during this time of remembrance. May you continue to heal and bring blessings to those around you. In that way we defeat the purpose of those who would do us harm. Love and blessings.<br /><br />SueSue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-30314032686163229132009-07-06T20:18:00.000-07:002009-07-06T20:36:16.207-07:00Clarification of Recognition of 9/11's Fallen Heroes at the National September Eleventh Memorial and MuseumIn some of the developements for the National September Eleventh Museum and Memorial being built near Ground Zero, concerns arose that the fallen members would not be properly recognized, their department and rank not recognized. A little more than a year ago I personally met a representative of the committee for this Memorial. What I learned is there are so many details being addressed to make it a fitting memorial for all and a learning experience for future generations. With the recent concerns raise, The National September Eleventh Museum and Memorial has issued this clarification. I received permission to post it here. I believe this is a fitting response and shows they will properly recognize each member of each agency and their rank will be known and their company or precinct also recognized. Further contact information is included. Please read.<br /><br />Dear FDNY families and friends,<br /><br />I am writing at the request of members of the FDNY who have asked for clarification on how the names will be arranged at the National September 11 Memorial. While I would hope this would go without saying, I want to personally express that honoring the memory of the FDNY and other first responders at the Memorial and preserving the history of their rescue and response efforts within the Museum are core to our mission.<br /><br />The purpose of this letter is to express clearly how First Responders are being recognized on the Memorial and what steps have been taken in light of the valid concerns of members of the first responder community. I am fully aware that the decision not to include ranks of first responders continues to be an issue for many families of first responders and those that either have served or actively serve today. At that same time, it would be a disservice not to reiterate what is being done in light of these concerns.<br /><br />It's important to note that prior to the final December 2006 decision, the names on the 9/11 Memorial were going to be listed randomly - in no discernable order, with no headings or delineations. The final arrangement (arrived at in Dec. 2006) reflects a compromise that strikes a balance between the initial Memorial design that won the Memorial competition and the opinions voiced by family members of first responders.<br /><br />The steps that have been taken are to:<br /><br />· List the names of all first responders together following an inscribed "FIRST RESPONDERS" heading<br /><br />· List the names of all members of a particular first responder agency together following inscribed agency headings - e.g., "FDNY" will be on the Memorial<br /><br />· List the names of all members of specific units together following specific inscribed unit headings - e.g., "LADDER 10" will be on the Memorial, and all of its members listed together<br /><br />In recognition of the heroism first responders displayed, knowingly going into harm's way to help save so many people on 9/11, a dedicated section of the Memorial will list their names together under these headings. In addition, the units will be arranged in such a way that will allow the names FDNY victims who were related or shared close friendships with colleagues to be listed side by side.<br /><br />As mentioned, I am aware that this final decision on the names arrangement does not satisfy everyone, and that some continue to believe the arrangement should be handled in other ways, whether that be alphabetically instead of by agency and units, or to add victims' ranks and titles to the inscriptions. As reflected by the many different treatments employed at other memorials across the country, there is no right answer to the difficult question of how to do this. Interestingly, the largest national memorial that lists individuals in the United States is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in D.C.; that memorial does not include ranks of the soldiers who fought and died in that war. Many memorials to fire fighters do not list ranks, including the IAFF Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial in Colorado Springs and the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. also does not list ranks. I will say anecdotally that the concern most often voiced about the original names arrangement was that first responders should be listed together, within their agencies and units, and as I hope everyone now understands the final decision on the arrangement rightly and appropriately addresses that.<br /><br />I also want to express again that the story of each and every member of the FDNY who perished on 9/11 will be a crucial and integral part of the Museum, including within a special Memorial exhibition that will individually honor their lives through photographs, audio recordings, and personal mementoes. Information about each of the victims will include rank, age, employer, and any other information provided to us by family members or friends. You can find more information about the Memorial Exhibition and how to participate in its creation on our website at <a href="http://newmuseumme.national911memorial.org/">http://newmuseumme.national911memorial.org/</a>.<br /><br />Please feel free to contact the Memorial staff with any questions<br />1-877-671-1636 or <a href="mailto:memorial@sept11mm.org">memorial@sept11mm.org</a> - we will respond with answers to your questions.<br /><br />Warm regards,<br /><br />Joe<br /><br />Joseph Daniels<br />President/CEO<br />National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center<br />212-312-8800<br /><a href="http://www.national911memorial.org/">http://www.national911memorial.org/</a>Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-53326536815664518292009-06-18T21:17:00.000-07:002009-06-18T21:22:50.554-07:00National Fire Fighter ArchiveI met Laura Yanes at the Firehouse World Expo. She has established the National Fire Fighter Archive photographing fire fighters so they have this memory for their families. It started with one photograph of one fire fighter in New York just prior to 9/11 when she was just taking a class in photography and was learning how to use her camera. Now she has photographed thousands of the FDNY and many many others. I urge you to go to her site <a href="http://www.firefighterarchive.com/">www.firefighterarchive.com</a> and check out her work and support her. Regards.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-24605425407345972732009-05-03T21:58:00.000-07:002009-05-03T22:02:39.817-07:00UpdateI attended the Fresno Fire Chief Foundation - Epicurian Delights Fundraiser yesterday. I was able to sell some books for the cause. I'm quite happy about that. A couple connections made let me know I'm still on the right path with this book. A fire fighter originally from Dallas spoke with me for quite a while. He helped me man my table and encouraged me to get some refreshments. He touched me though. He told me he would not be able to read my book. He told me he couldn't look at photos, etc. That means he is one that has seen too much. Guys like him I won't forget and will keep them all in my prayers always.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-86999024929332334492009-04-17T17:03:00.000-07:002009-04-17T17:14:50.168-07:00Heroes of Every KindThe other day I was in a Toastmaster's meeting. A lady gave a speech on how 9/11 changed her life. She spent years in the airline industry. When 9/11 hit, she was a flight attendant for a company that few private/corporate jets. She often met notable people. When 9/11 hit, she was called upon to do tasks she never thought she would. Places she was flown accompanying FEMA, CIA and FBI personnel. The flight attendants and even the pilot was not allowed to know where they were going at times. They would only be given coordinates. Just fly these people here. She said they were trained to deal with terrorists and the policies for dealing with terrorists had been around so long the terrorists knew them well. They knew how flight attendents would react in certain situations. She said they new about Bin Laden. They had been tracking him for five years. And right after 9/11, suddenly flight attendants were calling in sick. No wonder right? Any way as she described the things she went through those early days after the attacks, it became clear that all her expert training had kicked in. In Toastmasters we are asked to always write comments for speakers. For her I wrote, my belief is God knew who He place in what positions to help guide, keep calm and assist in certain processes. Her training and God given abilities kicked in. Just like Captain Sully's did as he landed the plane in the Hudson.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-31702969190741356972009-04-16T21:46:00.000-07:002009-04-16T22:00:33.162-07:00UpdatesWell I haven't written anything in a while. I'm not used to keeping up blogs. I attended the Firehouse World Expo in San Diego in February. It was low attendance. The basic thing was meeting people though. I met two FDNY members there. One had just been honored as Rescuer of the Year. He was overwhelmed by my display, my posters and memorial memorabilia I had with me. I gave him and his friend the last two hero medals I had. I also met John White. Founder of Fire Fighters For Christ. It was such a pleasure to meet him! I believe I made a few other good connections.<br /><br />I recently had one speaking engagement - a woman's church group. The same week I had several visitors. I had the opportunity to host a couple Ireland fire fighters - members of Fire Fighters For Christ - at Pelco and give them a tour of the memorial and museum. The weekend following, I had visitors from New York. A gentleman who is FDNY retired and his wife. Local fire fighters helped me honor them. Learning their story more deeply really tugged at the heart strings. The Brownie Lady also came and helped make the time so special. Then she and I hit up some of the local fire houses and did what she does best. Showing love and appreciation to our local bravest.<br /><br />And that is what I have been up to. May you all stay safe and may God richly bless you.<br /><br />Time to get back to work promoting.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-87693758223419530052009-01-27T21:55:00.000-08:002009-01-27T21:57:52.799-08:00Firehouse World Expo - San Diego - Feb 17-19Just letting everyone know I'm preparing to exhibit at the Firehouse World Expo in San Diego in a few weeks. I'm excited about it and hoping this will open up some doors and lead me to some great contacts.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-36887891621678553252009-01-16T22:11:00.000-08:002009-01-16T22:14:00.159-08:00Who is a HeroAs those who are in the Fresno/Clovis area have seen, there have been many changes at Pelco. Today I gave what will probably be my last "kiddie tour". It was kindergarten and first graders. They are shown only the museum, memorial and security office. Today one of the little girls was accompanied by her father. When we were in the museum and the video started, he moved to the hallway out of site of the video. I saw him looking at displays. I walked over to him and he started talking to me. He is in the military. He did not tell me what branch but said his job is to load explosives. He told me the video was very hard for him to watch. He has done 9 tours! "People have forgotten" He told me. "People have forgotten what happened. After 9/11 there was a unity we don't see now." As the tour continued, I stole moments away to find a way to honor him, to look for one of the hero medals Pelco gave to the fire and police from New York. I was successful in finding one. When I tried to give it to this most deserving and obviously weary service member, he refused. "I was just doing my job. I'm no hero. (I have heard this so many times from those that are the only ones this title could apply to). I have just done my part. I'm not one of the fire fighters."My partner with the tour has been also deeply involved with our memorial. Between he and I , we were able to convince him to accept this small token. He thanked me that there is someone that understands and remembers. I've not been the same since I met him. Pray for him and the rest of our service members for all they have seen and faced and need to process. And pray for their continued efforts. I also pray for all fire, police and EMS workers. You do so much.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-54219594981621584092008-12-30T21:27:00.000-08:002008-12-30T21:38:27.335-08:00In remembrance - John CostelloeSad news. On December 18, 2008. John Costelloe took his own life. I never knew him, but he was a dear friend of a dear friend. And for my friend I'm posting this. He was 47 years old. He was FDNY Retired. He was an actor, member of the Screen Actors Guild. He appeared in Shazaam, Die Hard 2 and The Soprano's amongst many other projects. And I know he was a good friend to my friend. John you have left many behind that love and miss you. Rest in peace.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-31763555337429827312008-12-23T22:22:00.000-08:002008-12-23T22:24:26.385-08:00Letter from Clovis Fire<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdnYOgcYWvnVSsExKcHs-et7amzaGmXlDTZcVZuqCFm00SK-jLoBi-2ru8DZCNxPA452qIqgR99vr_Mzn8kdqwi957HkpyBTV0zjlSty5jUdUqZwQZudDjMpnQX8RHP-hDGFNB2g8afnw/s1600-h/Clovis+Fire.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283238578716934562" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 252px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdnYOgcYWvnVSsExKcHs-et7amzaGmXlDTZcVZuqCFm00SK-jLoBi-2ru8DZCNxPA452qIqgR99vr_Mzn8kdqwi957HkpyBTV0zjlSty5jUdUqZwQZudDjMpnQX8RHP-hDGFNB2g8afnw/s320/Clovis+Fire.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-13719077851229387322008-10-31T23:09:00.001-07:002008-10-31T23:16:34.814-07:00In RemembranceIn loving remembrance of Gerald Titmus - Northern Ireland Fire Brigade. He past away yesterday at the age of 45 following a brief illness. I had the awesome opportunity of meeting Gerald when he came to the United States as a member of Fire Fighters For Christ. Our local members asked me to host them at Pelco where I work and give them a tour of our Memorial. Gerald was full of antics. He was endearing. He was actually a police officer for a number of years. He faced terrorists and had many attempts on his life. He was President of the Northern Ireland chapter of Fire Fighters For Christ. He was recently made Chaplain of the Northern Ireland Fire Brigade and received his Class As. He never got to wear them. Gerald, well done.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-9249099916205154222008-10-23T21:07:00.000-07:002008-10-23T21:08:34.830-07:00Hi all,<br /><br />Check this out. It was created by a friend of mine.<br /><br />My God keep you safe and may you fully rely on Him who is more than able.<br /><br />God Bless,<br /><br />Sue<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/911Remembered">http://www.youtube.com/911Remembered</a>Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-20166762204329404642008-10-08T21:35:00.000-07:002008-10-08T21:50:52.669-07:00CommonalityHello Everyone,<br /><br />Today I had an article come out in Valley Virtue Magazine. This is a local magazine for women. Now I've run the gammit as far as local publicity - tv interviews, news paper, one radio interview and now a magazine. Hoping for the more national exposure hopefully coming soon.<br /><br />Anyway, over this first year since the book came out, the greatest support I've gained so far is from those connected with the military. When I wrote the book, I had no idea that connection would come about. I have been told of the common thread between fire fighters, police and the military. I'm glad I've been able to produce something so far people have said is valuable that strikes a cord with members of all areas of service. God Bless you all.Sue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-436342528322089877.post-39241544935331709202008-09-10T22:38:00.000-07:002008-09-10T22:39:20.604-07:00It's 9/11 again. As one that has written a book on the subject, this day comes harder every year. In the beginning I was so far removed. But I've gotten to know too many too deeply. Two people in particular that I wrote about are having a much harder time coping this year. I'm hoping this is just a difficult hurdle in their healing - a necessary time for them to come to terms with all they have been through. I can only hope. I'm no psychiatrist or psychologist. I've just been given the opportunity to interact with so many personally effected and get to know them and become friends. This has been a difficult year.<br />And here I am. Someone who "wasn't there" that day - didn't know anyone there prior to that dreadful day. But now my life is so effected. Even though I lost no one, didn't know anyone and wasn't there that day - the 9/11 tragedy has become a part of my daily life. But tonight when I was at Pelco and we were preparing for tomorrow's observance ceremony, I looked around and saw so much to be thankful for. Out of this tragic time, so many friendships grew. I knew no fire fighters or police officers personally prior to the tragedy. But now they are a part of my daily life. That is a blessing. I got hugs tonight from our City Fire Chief Randy Bruegman, Port Authority Chief from New York Anthony Whitaker teased me and gave me hug, Andy Isolano who is FDNY - Retired, now living here in California smiled and waved as soon as he saw me and I received many more hugs from our local first responders.<br />Also there were local families there who lost sons in this war. I sat with them for a time fumbling for the right words to say. Tomorrow they will each be presented a flag. I am thankful for a place like Pelco that still takes the time to honor them.<br />I expect the morning to be a lot like tonight however I know I will be more teary eyed thinking of my friends that I know are still struggling. And yet I believe it a blessing to be able to weep with them.<br />This has not been a very structured blog. Not any real point given. Just talking. I hope everyone will remember the victims and heroes of 9/11 tonight and tomorrow.<br /><br />God BlessSue Okenyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09649008226518172343noreply@blogger.com0