Apr. 28, 2008 - A Bittersweet Weekend
This past weekend I was able to travel back home to Michigan to spend Saturday night with my family. My brother that died in a car crash last summer was being honored at the Michigan EMS Expo with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Most people know of the tight bond between policemen. After 9/11 the bond between firefighters was well known. What many people don't know is the tight bond that exists between paramedics as well.
They put together a very sweet slideshow and presented the award to his children in his memory.
I'm thankful to everyone who stopped my niece and nephew to give them a hug and told them how much they respected their dad. Many people (including me) don't get that outpouring of support and love when their dad dies. That's such a special memory they will be able to cherish.
As a side note: Most people don't realize that being a Paramedic is one of the most dangerous jobs to have. I have another brother who is a Paramedic. I have other family who are EMT's. There are many stories they can tell you that will make you realize this is not the world's safest profession. These are the people who respond no matter what is going on at the scene. They are the ones who arrive at the scene and realize, a little too late, that there is a shootout going on. They are the ones who risk life and limb during that ice storm to get to a house where a young mother is about to deliver. Sometimes they are the ones delivering the baby during that ice storm. Many times the city (as has happened here within the last couple of weeks) will cut the budget, taking away ambulance bases. It's the paramedics who bear the brunt of the criticism when their response time is longer. On top of all this, these people are very poorly compensated for their lifesaving skills. The people who choose this line of work as their career aren't doing it for respect (there's very little), and certainly not for money (there's even less of that). The people who make this their career do this out of love for their job.
The next time you see Paramedics out and about, give them a pat on the back. They deserve this in a big way, but get it very little. I would say "hug your local Paramedic", but they may not appreciate that if you're a stranger :)
Comments
Apr. 29, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Dell
What a poignant weekend. Thank you for the reminder to appreciate paramedics! What a gift they give to so many.
Since I'll take your advice and just thank them and not hug them (since they'd be total strangers), I'll send a cyber hug to you in their place for the moment.
Apr. 30, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by MayTheyBeMightyMen
What a nice honor! So sorry about your brother. :'(
I didn't know about the bond you wrote about. It's really neat to see it through your perspective. Thanks for sharing that.
Apr. 30, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Anonymous
Kathy,
I'm glad you got to be there with your family for the ceremony. First responders have my utmost respect, and I am glad his children got to see the honor that goes with that dedication.
Lisa French
|
|
This site owned by Enter name here |
|
|
|
