Iron Ranger Zachary Yurczyk has been in the fire service for over a decade, now working as a Lieutenant firefighter and paramedic at Virginia Fire Department and as a MnFIRE trainer.
Over his career, he’s led dozens of trainings on the health risks most commonly experienced by those in the fire service, and responded to hundreds of calls on shift. But perhaps one of the most memorable calls he’s experienced is the one he made to MnFIRE’s hotline for help.
“It felt different to be switching hats from being the one who is telling firefighters to use the help number, to being the one making the call,” said Yurczyk. “But it has been monumental and really helped me get my life back on track.”
Despite success in his career and fulfillment from the job, at age 29, Yurczyk found himself in a lull. He was struggling with energy levels, sleep, his mood, and overall, he just felt “off.” He started searching for a medial answer, and after several appointments, Yurczyk was diagnosed with Hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid.
“Eventually, it was determined I needed to have my thyroid removed,” said Yurczyk. “Once that happened, I was placed on medicine that I will have to take the rest of my life. And I thought, ‘Well, now things will get better.’”
But they didn’t. Overwhelmed with the health journey while balancing his increased responsibilities at work and raising three young children with his wife, it was all too much. He called the 24-hour hotline to connect with a peer supporter.
“I’ve always been on the other end – teaching, talking about it, trying to help people get what they need, and this time, I needed it,” said Yurczyk. “And they answered immediately.”
The virtual meetings allowed him to check in weekly with ease, which set him up for quick results. Today, he feels like a better partner, parent and firefighter, ready to help others again. He’s back to teaching MnFIRE classes with new perspective and renewed passion.
“Hands down, the emotional wellness class is my favorite to teach,” said Yurczyk. “You don’t realize you are feeling a certain way until someone shares their thought or feeling, and it’s verbatim what you are experiencing. It’s creating connection and community as the class goes on.”
Having used MnFIRE resources himself, Yurczyk can now speak to the life-changing aspect of these benefits available at no cost to active Minnesota firefighters, setting the standard for firefighter health and wellness across the nation.
“MnFIRE training is such an opportunity,” said Yurczyk. “The information shared will change your career and all aspects of your life because you gain a greater understanding of how to live.”
Schedule a training for your department
Through the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program, MnFIRE provides no-cost health and wellness training for all Minnesota fire departments. In addition to the general MnFIRE Awareness class that gives an overview on firefighter occupational health risks, there are five deep-dive trainings now available. Click here to learn more and register for a training.
Become a trainer
MnFIRE is always looking for passionate people who are dedicated to helping others prioritize and protect their health. If you’re interested in becoming a MnFIRE training instructor, please reach out to DeeDee Jankovich. We’re especially looking for new trainers in greater Minnesota.
