Paramedicine

Paramedics:

Every time I tell people what I'm going into, the first response is "how can you handle that?". I never know how to respond. It is such a bittersweet job, in every way possible. And yet, I woudn't have it any other way.

Why I chose it:

I've always dreamed of becoming a Doctor, ever since I was little. But being a girl, wanting a family, the schooling, among other reasons... it just wasn't feasable.
I did an internship at Treehouse Pediatrics in highschool and loved every mintue of it! I LOVE working with kids, and would love to use my knowledge and skill to help in developing countries. It was there that I learned about the Physician's Assistant field. With only two years of school (post bachelors), good pay and hours, and being able to practice like a doctor, it was perfect! It's been my goal ever since!
I finished my genereals in high school to get some schooling out of the way, but couldn't decide on a bachelor's degree?
Nursing made sense but didn't feel right? Health science Social Work or Chemistry also made sense, but I needed medical experience?
And then everything just came together. I watched the movie the Guardian, and felt an overwhelming sense of duty, then while at a PA society meeting when they discussed a new degree at BYUI, a Bachelors in Paramedicine. It just clicked. I wasn't sure I'd be able to handle it, but I knew it was right.

Being in the major I am has helped strengthen me in everyway possible.

Physically: I am more conscious of my health and ability, and always trying to improve

Socially: I have gained a FAMILY at the station, some of the best most admirable people I know. They continually guide and teach me, laugh and enjoy life, and help me when times are rough.

Spiritually and emotionally: I have never been closer to my Savior. I KNOW I could not do what I do EVERY DAY without him. It is beyond my capabilities. In IV training, in Fire training, in being at work, clinicals and school nonstop, in putting my calling first, and in being spiritually and emotionally capable to handle the calls and experiences I have to. He is constantly with me, and I am so grateful for that.

Having one of my best friends in high school killed in a car accident, has made me ponder a lot about what I do.
I have had many discussions with people about whether or not my job is even worth it, everything is in God's hands, and live or die, it is up to Him?

That is my role, to be His hands when He needs me, when a drunk driver runs a red light and someones daughter was not supposed to be hit.
And when it is their time to go, I have peace in knowing I did all I could, and our Heavenly Father called them home.

I bare testimony that ALL trials are for our good, if we see the good in them. They make us stronger, more humble, but most of all, they turn us to Him.

I see and witness experiences every day that testify of that.

Some time ago, while working in an ER, I had the experience of giving a death sentance, Terminal Cancer. I was so impressed with the response. Gratitude and humility were expressed rather than anger and resent. Inactivity turned into faith and then testimony.


My job reminds me EVERY DAY of my family, my friends, my health, my prosperity, my ability to use my talents to serve, my many blessings, and my Savior.

I am so grateful for it all.