In his new novel 'Shoebox,' Sean Paul Bedell, a Nova Scotia author and former paramedic, explores the emotional complexities faced by first responders. The story is narrated from the perspective of paramedic Steve Lewis, who grapples with the aftermath of a tragic incident. While the protagonist is not a direct representation of Bedell, the narrative is infused with realism drawn from his experiences on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia. Bedell highlights that many first responders, including paramedics, firefighters, and police, often carry the weight of their experiences, which can lead to mental health challenges such as PTSD. Although he has not been diagnosed with PTSD, Bedell acknowledges that some of his darkest days still haunt him. Writing 'Shoebox' has been therapeutic for him, allowing him to process these memories. Ultimately, Bedell aims for readers to gain insight into the lives of first responders and to recognize their humanity, while also conveying a message of hope throughout the narrative.