3.2
Weathering My Storm
Bob Breck, WVUE-TV, New Orleans, LA
Every Weather broadcaster dreams for the day when he/she will make a difference in saving peoples lives. Whether it’s an F5 tornado, a Cat. 5 Hurricane or a major flooding episode, we want to be the one first with the warnings or judged best in presenting the information that keeps people safe.
Over 2 years ago, my wife (Paula) of 32 years died of PE (Pulmonary Embolism) caused by a broken ankle. Protecting others has been the focus of my 33+ year TV career. Protecting Paula from the most dangerous side effect of surgery was out of my control because I was ignorant about blood clots, their signs and symptoms.
The author will detail (power point) how he created a public service campaign that continues to this day saving lives. It includes how he partnered with a hospital and a pharmaceutical company to educate the public about the dangers of blood clots. No it wasn’t a meteorological event that has allowed me to make a difference, to help save lives (over 40+ locally) in the New Orleans area. Instead it was a condition that is treatable, but more importantly, PREVENTABLE. This is not a New Orleans problem. It is the 3rd leading cause of death and my hopes are other weathercasters in markets across the nation take this campaign back home where they too can make a difference. Nobody should die from a broken ankle.
Session 3, Standing Tall, Making a Difference
Tuesday, 15 June 2004, 11:10 AM-11:40 AM
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