My life has been in tatters since I was fired from my dream job as a fireman

DEAR DEIDRE: EVER since I was fired from my dream job, my life has been in tatters.

I’m completely devastated, and the reality of starting over is too much to bear. 

I’m a 46-year-old man and I’ve worked as a firefighter for more than 25 years. 

Growing up it was all I ever wanted to do. Becoming a firefighter was the best decision I ever made, and I loved every second of it.

I had never even considered the idea that one day I would have to do something else.

So my world was shattered when I found out that I was being dismissed. 

I’ve been suffering badly with my health, and it’s taken a toll on me so I’ve had to take more sick days than usual.

I’d explained this to my boss and I thought he understood, but I was taken by surprise when I was fired for too many “unexplained absences”. 

I tried to fight it, but I was told there was nothing I could do. Now I feel so lost. 

DEIDRE SAYS: I am sorry to hear that you have had to leave your dream job and I understand how distressing this must be for you.