I joined my town's 100% volunteer EMS organization seven years ago. Although I wanted to join earlier, I waited until my four children were old enough to make a piece of toast by themselves! One benefit of the EMS corps being volunteer is that our patients do not have to pay for our service. We transport all our patients free of charge. Thanks to generous donations from patients, town residents and the town itself, we are able to provide emergent care from well trained EMTs. This is a great relief to patients that are already in an unwanted situation.

What I love most about being an EMT is providing calm, confident care for both the patient and their family members. Unfortunately, there are times when we are not able to save every patient. Because I have experienced loss in my life (the passing of my dad, a best friend), I try to offer the same compassion and respect I received during those difficult times. One key aspect is to "read the room" as everyone processes traumas differently.

One of the challenges of being an EMT is compartmentalizing traumatic events. Thanks to services provided by our corps, we have access to trained therapists who provide assistance when we need it. I had a very difficult call a few years ago and as soon as the call was complete, I was surrounded by fellow EMTs and contacted by a therapist. It was incredibly helpful and the check ins continued as long as I felt I needed it. The corps resembles a family and unconditional support.

By giving back to my community in this way, I feel deep gratitude towards my family who picks up the slack when I have to run out unexpectedly to answer a call, to my fellow EMTs who push me to be better as a caregiver and to the patients who trust us with the care we provide. It is truly a unique EMS corps!