Empower Yourself with C.O.D.E. 

“This text strikes so many realistic chords with me. I've lived each of the scenarios or ones similar. I too, have seen my children lying “there”. PTSD IS REAL! Unfortunately, too many of us miss the signs in others or refuse to recognize them in ourselves. For those that read this very captivating book, I hope it strikes a chord. After losing too many fellow professionals, some I knew well and some I don't know at all, its clearly time to address the issues. As a member of our departments PEER team, I'm proud and privileged to say we are headed in the right direction. Thanks to each who shared a part of your journey, and thanks to you Darren and Anita, for compiling this work. I pray it saves at least one life.” —Criminalist Todd A. Thorne City of Kenosha, WI Police Department Forensic Unit Owner Todd A. Thorne and Associates Forensic Consultants, LLC

“These accessible stories will connect with emergency responders while also offering perspective, resources, and essential reminders of how to work horrific incidents while also connecting with friends and family. This book affirms as it educates, and it might save marriages and friendships—and even some lives.” —Katherine Ramsland Author of Forensic Investigation: Methods from Experts and The Psychology of Death Investigations

“C.O.D.E provides fascinating stories of extraordinary members of emergency services who witnessed traumatic events that challenged their mental health but overcame those challenges to heal themselves and inspire others. Essential reading for those in the field.” —Dan Zupansky, True Murder podcast

“From dispatch, to those on the road, and to the medical examiner, a call for help can come in different forms, but the result is the same for those who respond. Eventually, it takes a toll on the soul. In reading C.O.D.E., written by Anita Agers Brooks and Darren Dake, I was sent back to my thirteen years in 9-1-1, as an on the line dispatcher and supervisor. This is a must-read for those in public safety who have experienced the worst the industry has to offer, and who are looking to rise above the pitfalls of the job, such as depression, PTSD, Compassion Fatigue and more. “ —Ricardo Martinez II, Within the Trenches podcast Founder of the #IAM911 movement, opening the eyes of millions to what 9-1-1 dispatchers deal with daily.

“My very first case at the coroner's office still affects me to this day — just a reminder will trigger the details in my memory, as though it were yesterday. C.O.D.E. profiles the various emotions and reactions those of us who work in the field may have experienced/felt, first hand. Each chapter in the book ends with C.O.D.E. tips, which reminds us all it is OKAY and NORMAL to feel these things, we are not alone. This important body of work gives us permission to communicate our feelings and allows others to help us, as we help those whose situations we are called upon to assist/address/investigate. This book is a much needed resource for not only all who serve, but for the families and friends of those on call. C.O.D.E. will help those who care about dispatchers, police, fire, EMS, death investigators, coroners, and others in the field better understand the emotions and effects resulting from these all-too-common scenarios. This is a must read for all!” —Terri Armenta Forensic Science Academy forensicscienceacademy.org