April 28 marks the National Day of Mourning—a time to honour those whose lives have been forever changed by workplace tragedies. It’s a time to remember, but it’s also a time to renew our commitment to safer workplaces for everyone. On this special National Day of Mourning episode of the IHSA Safety Podcast, we welcome back Eugene Gutierrez to share his story of resiliency, hope, and the work being done across Canada to create safer and healthier workplaces.

Eugene lost his father in a workplace accident in 2017, a tragedy that turned his family’s world upside down. With help from Threads of Life, he found support and healing, and for the past seven years, he’s been giving back by volunteering, participating in Steps for Life walks, and raising awareness about workplace safety.

Now the new executive director of Threads of Life, Eugene says his work at Threads of Life is a mission, not just a job. He’s focused on making sure others don’t have to go through traumatic experiences like losing a limb, getting sick, or losing their life on the job. His passion for helping people and making a difference is what drives him to pursue this mission.

Eugene discusses the services offered by Threads of Life, and one key program is Volunteer Family Guides, which offers one-on-one peer support through calls, chats, or in-person meetings. Threads of Life also hosts annual regional events called Family Forums—safe spaces where spouses, parents, siblings, and close friends can connect, learn, and heal. In addition to various other valuable programs, Threads of Life holds annual Steps for Life community walks, which are five-kilometre walks held across Canada to raise funds, share stories, and walk in support of one another.

Free resources

Threads of Life

Keep your promise to those who count on you

See Something, Say Something: Heartfelt stories of families affected by workplace tragedy

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