Taking the Cape Off: How to Lead Through Mental Illness, Unimaginable Grief and Loss

A Personal Guide on How to Lead through Mental Illness, Unimaginable Grief, and Loss Taking the Cape Off shares Fire Chief Pat Kenny’s journey to overcome his perceived failure as a leader in his most cherished duty, that of being a protector. His “Cape” failed to protect his 20-year-old son Sean from dying by suicide after a lifelong battle with mental illness. His anguish was complicated by his role as the leader of a fire department. This is not a story of darkness but rather one of hope as he reveals the path he took to move forward with his life and return to a leadership role. In this book, he will share: How you as a leader can address the stigma attached to mental illness in the workplace, at home, or with friends, utilizing professional resources and relying on your faith. How you can develop the leadership communication skills necessary to help you both personally and professionally when faced with any health crisis. How to foster a continuing, loving relationship with your deceased loved one’s memory by acknowledging the signs you receive from the hereafter. This comprehensive handbook is for leaders in any profession, for grief-stricken parents, and for anyone who struggles with the stigma of mental health. You will receive insight and guidance from the author’s personal experiences to help you understand and embrace the limitations of your leadership—your Cape—so that you can serve those suffering from mental illness, enhance your leadership, and enrich your life. TAKING THE CAPE OFF is a 2022 Gold Recipient of the Mom’s Choice Awards® Honoring Excellence. TAKING THE CAPE OFF won the Gold Medal Award in the Non-Fiction – Grief/Hardship category for the 2021 Readers’ Favorite International Book Award Contest. TAKING THE CAPE OFF is an Award-Winning Finalist in the Parenting & Family, and Spirituality categories of the 2021 Best Book Awards sponsored by American Book Fest.