From Saving Lives to Preserving Memories

A Firefighter's Journey, a Family's Love, and the Handmade Bags That Keep Their Stories Alive

What happens when a firefighter's career ends, but his desire to serve never does?

From Saving Lives to Preserving Memories tells the true story of retired firefighter Alan Karnas and his wife, Jeanette Velasquez-Karnas, whose journey of love, resilience, and second chances inspired the creation of 277Designs.

After 36 years of firefighting service, Alan faced an unexpected retirement. What could have been the end of one chapter became the beginning of another.

With Jeanette's encouragement, Alan discovered a new purpose: transforming retired firefighter turnout gear into handcrafted bags that preserve the memories and legacies of those who served.

This heartfelt memoir takes readers behind the scenes of 277Designs, sharing the challenges, determination, family support, and meaningful moments that shaped their journey.

More than a firefighter's story, this is a story about finding purpose when life changes unexpectedly.

Why You'll Love This Book

• A true, personal story of a firefighter's life after retirement.

• An inspiring journey of love, resilience, and second chances.

• The story behind 277Designs and its handcrafted firefighter gear bags.

• A meaningful gift for firefighters, retirees, spouses, and families.

• A reminder that service and purpose can continue long after retirement.

Book Details

• Title: From Saving Lives to Preserving Memories

• Author: Jeanette Velasquez-Karnas, with Alan Karnas

• Format: Paperback

• Length: 88 pages

• Size: 6 × 9 inches

• ISBN: 9798166581204

• Language: English

Choose Your Edition

Standard Paperback: An unsigned copy of the published memoir.

Signed & Personalized Paperback: A copy personally signed by author Jeanette Velasquez-Karnas, with a dedication to the recipient.

For personalized copies, please enter the recipient's name and any short dedication request in the personalization box.

Perfect For

Firefighter retirement celebrations, graduation gifts, firefighter families, first responders, and readers who enjoy inspiring true stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, and finding a new purpose.

Our Promise

At 277Designs, every bag has a story. This book shares ours.

Real Gear. Real People. Real Stories.