Today is 9/11, a day that none of us will forget. As we wind down Season Two of The Plant-Strong podcast, which is dedicated to those with the heart of a hero, we want to honor those who serve on the front lines when we call for help. To commemorate this special day, I want to share an open letter to first responders.

We all remember where we were that day when time stood still and the events that transpired across the United States imprinted on each and every one of us. I remember like it was yesterday, as I'm sure you all do. On this day every year, we think of you, emergency first-responders, and the sacrifice you make for others.

Lately, with the endless firefighting in California and Oregon, first responders are being put to the test once again and I want to remind everyone that the #1 cause of death for in-the-line-of duty deaths among firefighters is heart disease...not fires or smoke inhalation, not accidents…...heart attacks. Think about that. In a job that faces potential risk and personal harm every time a call comes in, it’s the effects of the standard American Diet that are more dangerous to these everyday heroes.

It’s our mission at Plant-Strong to educate and empower people to take back their health, to get in the driver seat and be their own hero. We want everyone to experience the benefits of living plant-strong and to learn that you do NOT have to accept type II diabetes, or high blood pressure, or high cholesterol as your fate. You can turn it around.

We want this for everyone, but I especially want this for firefighters and emergency first-responders.

So my letter to all of you is to be brave, take the plunge, and don’t wait until you are having chest pains to see the light. Make the change to put YOURSELF FIRST - you will be able to rescue so many more people when your own internal engine is in order.

We honor you today and always. We will never forget.

Peace, Engine 2, Keep it Plant-Strong.