Not Apathetic

I was reading WamBamtheAmbulance and really like his post about apathy in EMS

He begins by saying, "After working in Information Technology for about six years, I was presented the opportunity for a career change. " I too worked a computer centric job for a number of years. And yes I got a career change chance, too.

He writes about wanting to help and also, "I also knew that I did not want a career where my purpose was to help people attain more "stuff." People get lost in "stuff-ness" and lose track of what's really important." I worked in the recreational boat business. Nobody needs a boat, they are nice and enjoyable but not necessary. I was tired of helping people with their toys. I needed a more essential job.

At the time I was regularly attending a Unitarian Universalist church. It's first principle is to affirm and promote, "The inherent worth and dignity of every person."

I thought that entering EMS would be a good way to help every person. Looking at the medical system calling 911 is one of the few times you get 1 on 1 attention. When you lie on an ambulance cot you have the full attention of a paramedic who typically has one patient. You won't get this from a doctor or nurse. It's during this transport time that I get the chance to do all I can to affirm and promote every person's worth.

Similarly, I think wambam writes, "In order to be satisfied, I knew I'd need to devote myself to something sustaining what matters: Community. Loving your neighbor. Using your talents and abilities to support your brothers and sisters. That's what matters. That's 90% of the reason I chose EMS."

Off I went to school and an EMT-B licence and that an EMT-P ticket. And along the way I learned that the pay isn't great, the hours can be awful, you take a lot of calls that make you wonder why and you learn just how dumb people can be. No matter I am happy for the time I can give the patient that one on one attention, learn about them, improve my skills and hopefully improve their condition.

EMSers are a cynical bunch, but for me it has proven a good fit.