By Dave Branco

Rescuing the Rescuer

Rescuing the rescuer: A Veteran’s Journey from Saving Lives to Seeking Help

Mar 21, 2025 | 1:00 PM

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PRINCE GEORGE – There are hundreds of unpaid professional volunteers in British Columbia. One such volunteer, a 36-year veteran with Prince George Search and Rescue, has dedicated his spare time to helping individuals currently they are recovering from the effects of PTSD. Jeff Smedley shares the story of a once devoted volunteer who now seeks support to cope with his struggles related to PTSD.

Jeff Smedley is well-known throughout the province for his exceptional abilities in locating and rescuing individuals. He was a founding member of the first Search and Rescue Advisory Board and has continually played a pivotal role in BC’s Search and Rescue program. However, in 2017, the pressures of his responsibilities within the Search and Rescue team began to take a toll on his daily life.

” Not sleeping. Super hyper-emotional, irritable with everything. I wasn’t myself, so I put my hand up and said, hey, I need some assistance.”

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Jeff Smedley

Retired Search and Rescue Manager

Smedley has authored a book reflecting on his experiences in Search and Rescue, aiming to shed light on his challenges. He hopes others will recognize similar struggles and seek help before these issues take a toll on their lives.

Smedley had to take a break from Search and Rescue. In the meantime, Conservative MP Todd Doherty introduced a private member’s bill to support first responders with post-traumatic stress disorder.

“The biggest thing we need to do is view mental health and parity with physical health. And only then will we ever see mental health being treated in parity with physical health.”

Todd Doherty

MP Cariboo – Prince George

Smedley emphasizes that establishing a Federal Framework for the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Act is a significant advancement. He also wants people to recognize that often, the deepest wounds remain invisible and take the longest to heal.

Smedley’s book, Rescuing the Rescuer, illuminates the individuals who commit themselves to Search and Rescue efforts. It is available at the Prince George Public Library and on Amazon.

Email: Dave.Branco@pattisonmedia.com

TikTok: @DaveBrancoVJ