A Port Authority employee narrowly escapes from the 68th floor after a plane hits the World Trade Center on September 11th, 2001, but the most devastating impact comes from the psychological wounds that haunt her life for decades after. Today's episode featured Kayla Bergeron. In addition to serving as chief of public and government affairs for The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Kayla has also served in senior roles for the New York State Housing Finance Agency and South Florida Water Management District, the lead agency restoring America's Everglades. Kayla currently resides in Suwanne, Georgia and serves as Program Director, and as a Certified Peer Support Specialist -Addictive Disease (C.P.S.- A.D.), for The Connection Forsyth, a 501c3 non profit recovery community organization, based in Cumming, Georgia. Kayla works as a social media consultant for Special Equestrians of Georgia, in Milton, Georgia, also a 501c3 non profit, where she participates in equine-assisted therapy.Kayla recently started a gofundme for Special Equestrians of Georgia, where she receives equine-assisted therapy for PTSD. Last year, Special Equestrians of Georgia (SEG), based in Milton, GA, had to close down its hippotherapy program due to COVID-19 and safety concerns. As a result, many of the horses had to be rehomed. Currently, SEG provides equine-assisted therapy for teens and adults with mental health challenges, including depression, PTSD, anxiety and trauma. With COVID-19 Delta variant hovering, Special Equestrians of Georgia may be forced to shut down its doors -- for good. It costs approximately $3,000 to fund the program, which includes feeding and special dietary needs, farrier, veterinarian, medicine and facility maintenance. Please help by donating to Special Equestrians of Georgia.This episode is part of a special, four-part series called The Long Shadow. Twenty Years after the attacks of September 11th changed the world as we knew it, this month the This Is Actually Happening podcast dives deep into the stories of four survivors whose jobs brought them face to face with the unthinkable. For those called to manage an impossible tragedy up close, the events of September 11th represented a uniquely horrifying challenge. Among the harrowing details of that day, we explore the long shadows of trauma and resilience that continue to inform the looming uncertainties that remain with us today.Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew WaitsSocial Media:Instagram: @actuallyhappeningTwitter: @TIAHPodcast Content/Trigger Warnings: violence, sexual assault, injury, terrorism, mention of suicide, alcoholism, addiction, mental illness explicit languageWebsite: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com  Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.comWondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at https://wondery.com/plusSupport the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happeningShop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.  Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – TipperMusic and Sound Design by: Marcelino Villalpando ServicesIf you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)Crisis Text Line: Within the US, text HOME to 741741See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dustin Reynolds, a determined adventurer and survivor of a horrific accident, shares his incredible journey of recovery and exploration. He faced severe disabilities but transformed his pain into purpose by setting sail on grand adventures. Their conversation dives into themes of resilience, hope, and self-discovery through sailing to remote islands and navigating the waters of Southeast Asia. Dustin’s story is a testament to overcoming adversity, as he embraces life with new challenges and adventures on the horizon.

Taun Hall, a dedicated mother and advocate, experienced an unimaginable tragedy involving her son Miles and law enforcement. She discusses navigating the complexities of mental health and the devastating consequences of ignored cries for help. The conversation highlights the urgent need for better mental health support and the challenges of the criminal justice system. Taun's creation of the Miles Hall Foundation aims to promote non-police responses to mental health crises, reflecting her emotional journey from loss to transformative activism.

A teenager grapples with abandonment and neglect, leading them down a dark path of addiction. Personal anecdotes reveal profound realizations during chaotic encounters fueled by drugs. The narrative explores disconnection from reality, family turmoil, and the search for identity amidst psychedelia. After a challenging mental health journey, they confront reintegration struggles and the weight of societal expectations. Ultimately, the story highlights recovery, resilience, and the ongoing quest for self-discovery.

In this conversation, Kenneth Ginlack, Sr., a dedicated advocate in behavioral health and youth support, shares his transformative journey from a troubled childhood to becoming the CEO of Serenity Inns. He reflects on facing his inner demons, the chaotic path of addiction, and the power of self-acceptance. Kenneth discusses the harsh realities of growing up in a violent environment and how he turned his struggles into a mission to help others. His insights on healing and empowerment highlight the resilience needed to change one's narrative.

David Jay and Koe Creation, both storytellers in the 82 Percent series, engage in a lively discussion on redefining family and community. They explore the evolution of family dynamics, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and open communication. Members of the Modern Family Institute, including Lily Lamboy, Heath Schechinger, and Marlon Williams, share insights on non-monogamy and the complexities of long-term relationships. The conversation highlights the importance of curiosity, connection, and community support in fostering diverse family structures.

An obstetrician delves into their haunting past while navigating the tumultuous world of medicine. They face the emotional weight of childhood trauma, guilt, and loss, sparked by a tragic delivery. The challenges of managing patient care on a chaotic night expose deep vulnerabilities. As they battle anxiety and PTSD, the story unfolds the journey of healing and the search for forgiveness within the healthcare landscape. This gripping narrative intertwines personal struggle with the complex realities of life and death.

Alex Chen, Founding Director of Harvard Law School LGBTQ+ Advocacy Clinic and Polyamory Legal Advocacy Coalition, discusses legal roots of nuclear family, monogamy, and fight for diverse family rights. Topics include challenges in promoting non-traditional family structures, impact of discrimination, economic disadvantages, and historical roots of family dynamics in America.

Kris Amstrong shares her story of marrying her high school sweetheart, Brandon, who suffered a severe brain injury. She discusses restructuring her family and finding love again. The episode highlights the challenges, joys, and lessons of caregiving and blending families in the face of trauma and loss.

Kayden Coleman shares his journey as a trans parent, reflecting on family history, childhood struggles, transitioning, and navigating pregnancy as a transgender man. He discusses traumatic childbirth, postpartum struggles, and empowerment as a black trans man, highlighting the complexities of identity, resilience, and parenthood.