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| Palmetto Mourns the Passing of a Friend |
On July 22, 2009, Linda Scotts daughter telephoned me; while her voice was clearly shaken with grief, it wasnt the tone or mannerism of her voice that was so moving, though my heart felt much empathy and compassion, it was her request. Hairs on my arms stood at attention, a chill tingled up my neck as swallowing became increasingly difficult, causing me to choke up. The dialogue that proceeded would not only affect me, but those around me and her family as well, for eternity.
Often times in the EMS world, we go about our daily lives treating and transporting neighbors and strangers from all walks of life. Factory workers, farmers, sales clerks, CEOs, mothers, fathers, sons and daughters and our job remains constant, be professional, treat with skill and compassion, and transport safely. In my nineteen years in EMS, I can count on two hands the number of times a Thank You was bestowed upon my partner and me. It wasnt that we werent doing our job effectively, or professionally for that matter, but when a loved one was in need of care, the patient and family members were focused on their circumstances and loved one, and understandably so.
In the emergency arena, EMS crews have about 8-20 minutes to make a difference in that patients life. At the hospital emergency room, patient care is transferred to another team of professionals consisting of nurses, doctors and technicians. The EMS crews mindset shifts to documentation and preparing the ambulance for the next emergency call. Will they respond to a wreck, a gun shot or a neighbors child at the local pool? Unfortunately and rarely do we in EMS see the final outcome of a patients treatment and all too often we have to depart, leaving a smile, a prayer and hope.
However, on the non-emergency side, it is quite different. Time affords us an opportunity to bond, to get to know those we transport and often times our patients become an extension of our family. We learn about each others likes, dislikes, and family history. Through the years, it is this bond that continues to amaze us. For many years, we thought we were the ones touching lives and making a difference, but to the contrary, it was the patient that was touching our lives, teaching us humility, grace and patience.
On July 21, 2009, Linda Scott, a dear friend and family member, passed away. Mrs. Scotts daughter telephoned, requesting Palmetto Ambulance Service EMS crews be pallbearers for her mothers funeral. Over the last two years, Linda has touched many lives here at Palmetto Ambulance Service. Thank you for enriching our lives with your contagious smile and for continuing to teach us humility even after your time on earth has gone. Our dear friend will not be forgotten for her spirit will continue to live in each of us. Our prayers go out to all family and friends of our beloved friend. |
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