DiscoverBeyond the Box#11 The Man Behind 21 Baby Boxes
#11 The Man Behind 21 Baby Boxes

#11 The Man Behind 21 Baby Boxes

Update: 2025-07-15
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The brotherhood of firefighters represents a special bond forged through shared danger, commitment to service, and unwavering support for one another. This episode of Beyond the Box pulls back the curtain on this powerful connection through the story of Josh Garrison—a firefighter, plumber, and unsung hero of the Safe Haven Baby Boxes movement.

Host Monica Kelsey welcomes Abby Garrison, Josh's widow, and Larry, a fellow firefighter, to share memories of the man who personally installed 21 baby boxes across America before his untimely passing at age 39. Their conversation weaves through humorous firehouse anecdotes, the groundbreaking installation of the very first baby box in U.S. history, and the profound impact Josh made without seeking recognition or reward.

We witness the intersection of personal tragedy and hope when Monica recounts how Josh was present at the Woodburn Fire Department when the first baby was surrendered—providing a ray of light during a dark time as the department was preparing for the funeral of their chief's two children. The emotional weight of this full-circle moment underscores why the work of Safe Haven Baby Boxes matters so profoundly.

The conversation takes a poignant turn as Abby shares the story of Josh's sudden hemorrhagic stroke and how their family has navigated grief while honoring his legacy. Three years after his passing, Josh's problem-solving spirit lives on through the phrase "What would Josh do?"—a testament to his lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

From firefighter camaraderie to the nationwide expansion of Safe Haven Baby Boxes to 23 states, this episode celebrates how ordinary heroes create extraordinary change. Listen now to discover how one man's willingness to serve continues to save lives long after his own was cut short.

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#11 The Man Behind 21 Baby Boxes

#11 The Man Behind 21 Baby Boxes

Monica Kelsey