Recent aviation accidents have stirred up a range of emotions for survivors of past disasters, who are now offering support to those emerging from the most recent incidents. One such incident occurred in Toronto, where Delta Air Lines flight 4819 crashed and flipped over at Pearson International Airport, leaving all 80 passengers and crew members alive but shaken. The survivors are still processing the traumatic event, with some struggling to come to terms with what happened.
Survivors of aviation disasters have a unique bond, having experienced the euphoria of survival followed by the challenging phase of psychic numbing. This protective mechanism shields individuals from processing the full extent of the trauma immediately after the event. It can take time for survivors to confront their emotions and seek help.
The National Air Disaster Alliance, established in 1995, provides a support network for survivors and families of victims, advocating for safety improvements in the aviation industry. Members of this alliance, like Denise Lockie and Sandy Purl, understand the long-term impact of such incidents and offer valuable advice to those who have recently survived crashes.
Lockie emphasizes the importance of seeking understanding from individuals who have been through similar experiences, as they can provide a level of empathy that others may not fully grasp. She also highlights the need for survivors to accept help and not rush the healing process, acknowledging that fears and triggers may surface later on.
Purl, who returned to work as a flight attendant after her own survival story, shares her insights on dealing with triggers and underlying traumas. She encourages survivors to take things one day at a time, seek support from loved ones, and engage in open communication about their experiences.
Both Lockie and Purl stress the significance of survivors allowing themselves to feel their emotions and seek the necessary assistance to navigate the aftermath of such harrowing events. Their shared experiences serve as a reminder of the resilience and strength exhibited by those who have faced the unthinkable and found ways to move forward.
