Welcome to this episode of Restore with Eoin Walker, where we take a moment to reflect on the experiences, challenges, and growth that come with a career in paramedicine. As paramedics, we’re privileged to care for people during some of the most vulnerable and difficult moments of their lives. This privilege carries profound meaning, but it also comes with unique emotional demands.

In this conversation, we explore the essence of resilience—what it truly means, whether our current definitions serve us well, and if we’re framing it in the right way to support those on the front lines of care. We’ll also delve into the aggregation of vicarious trauma, the cumulative impact of witnessing human suffering, and how it shapes us over time.

But this episode isn’t just about challenges—it’s about growth. We’ll discuss post-traumatic growth, the idea that adversity and trauma can lead to personal transformation and a renewed sense of purpose. Our guests Keir Rutherford and Lisa Burrell unpack these questions and reflect on their fundamental journeys in the profession.

Whether you’re in the field, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in the emotional landscape of emergency care, this episode offers reflections, insights, and a space to explore what it truly means to be resilient in the face of adversity.