When her intense struggles began, Tracey became suicidal with ascertained methods and intentions. She was in true fear for her life. Having no direction or assistance provided by her leaders, she began acute psychotherapy on her own, which she has since maintained weekly to this day. Desperate to know why this was happening to her and the reasoning behind it, Tracey decided to return to school and in October of 2025, she graduated with her master's degree in psychology from Keiser University.

Tracey spent 20 years on the back of an engine in combat, 3 years as a training officer, and over 15 years instructing for the state of Indiana. As an educator by nature, she strives to give back what she has lost by helping other first responders, and those who experience workplace trauma, by sharing what she has learned through experience and academically. She is not a therapist. She is a peer that is able to educate, listen, and to share her story. She wants to express the importance of mental health from a raw, truthful perspective, as well as motivating and advocating for personal strength and perseverance.

Workplace trauma can impact people differently, and Tracey has experience from different perspectives. She grew up in a first responder family. Her mom was a retired firefighter from the same department she served, her older brother is a retired police officer, her sister-in-law is a police officer, her cousin is a firefighter, her uncle was a firefighter, she was once married to a firefighter, and she worked as an ER mental health technician. Tracey is also a mother and LGBT.

Stand Up 4 Response - SU4R (pronounced "suffer") - represents the suffering that we all experience. The owl logo honors her mother and has great significance in that they represent wisdom, personal transformation and growth. They are a symbol of protection. They embody the ideals that SU4R represents. Tracey encompasses the ideals that represent you and is dedicated to stand up for what matters.

EDUCATION SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH WITH PROACTIVE RESPONSE