Passed the NREMT!

I now have national certification to work as an EMT.. I even got a patch! So now all I need is my LA county cert and I can work. This process is longer than I expected, but I can only see it as a great thing. I mean, if I didn't have to go through all of this, I'd have little faith in the pre-hospital care we receive. soon.. very soon.. =)

Haiti

I've been watching CNN coverage for the past 2 days, just wishing that I were further along in my schooling. I want to be there, I want so badly to help, to provide medical care for these people. I am making it my personal goal to be able to help in the next major emergency, in some way. Any way. I've thought of joining the Peace Corps, but I think linking up with the Red Cross or a similar aid organization would be even more fulfilling. Many doctors and nurses are on their way to Haiti to do whatever they can to help these people. I want to be that help...

In the meantime, Text HAITI to 90999 to donate $10 to Red Cross Haiti relief.

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times are tough.

I have THE absolute GREATEST friends and family. If you've seen me in the last few months, you're exactly who I'm talking about. So many of you have helped me in your own special and distinct way. I couldn't ask for a better support system. Hopefully I'll be up and running smooth shortly! Thank you for everything.

Soon to be.... EMT!

It was only 3 weeks long... but the most crazy intense immersion program I could have imagined. I have been eating, sleeping and breathing nothing but basic life support and I wouldn't have it any other way! Literally, since I finished I have dreamt about saving people's lives every single night. I met a lot of really great people in my short time there, and I intend to grow those friendships as I make my way through this insane career path.

I learned so much more than I ever thought I would, and this is only the beginning! Everywhere I go, I see potential to save a life. I know why the body reacts to things, I know how major disease affects us, I know how to keep someone alive if they suffer an accident or heart attack or diabetic coma. I can stop bleeding, splint an extremity, deliver a baby (if I HAVE to)... I can breathe for someone, keep their heart pumping blood, treat for shock, I can triage, I'm prepared for mass casualty, this is just madness. The body is an AMAZING thing, yet so incredibly fragile.

I have a ride along scheduled for this Sunday, actually with one of my instructors, so hopefully I'll really get some hands on action. I'm doing my ER hospital shift next week as well. Then I take my National Registry Exam, then get Certified in LA County.. and THEN I can get a job. I am looking forward to so much!! It can only get better from here. I can't wait to save my first life. I realize I'll be taking the bad with the good, but I know that the positive experiences will FAR outweigh anything traumatic. I'll see some things that I'd never wish upon anyone else... but I'll also see some things that I will cherish forever.

New Year's at Betny's

Thanks Beth and Danny for hosting - again! Sing Star, 'Absince', Rockband, Korean Tacos, Jello shots, Dress up, and Snuggies... That about sums up the night. We had a blast, celebrating with close friends can never be bad! Happy Birthday Beth, we love your place and the new year's sleepover is probably the best idea ever. Everybody had fun, and nobody had to worry about driving home! I love you guys!