New York City, with its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, often paints a picture of endless possibilities, a city where dreams come alive. To many, it’s a city of rainbows, glitter, and sunshine. But as the sun sets and the city’s facade fades, a different reality emerges, one that I came face-to-face with during my EMT rotations.
Last year, as I pursued my EMT certification in New York State, I was required to complete hours of ambulance rotations alongside seasoned EMTs. This hands-on experience was designed to immerse us in the world of emergency care, offering a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of the EMS profession. It was meant to prepare us for what lay ahead, but nothing could truly ready me for the revelations I would encounter.
The haunting stillness of 12-hour night shifts unveiled the silent struggles our city grapples with. Homelessness, addiction, and violence are rampant, with most of our calls centered around the homeless, intoxicated individuals, addicts, and incidents of stabbings. It’s astonishing how the daylight manages to mask these issues, creating an illusion of serenity and prosperity. But the truth is, a fire is burning right behind us, and most remain blissfully unaware.
The relentless nature of these challenges has pushed many EMTs to the brink of burnout. Night after night, they bear witness to the city’s underbelly, tirelessly working to alleviate pain and save lives. Their dedication is commendable, but the weight of the city’s problems is immense.
Now, as I embark on a journey to earn an AAS degree in paramedic studies, I dream of revolutionizing the EMS sector. With my engineering background, I envision innovations that span from ground ambulances to flight paramedic helicopters soaring above. Yet, amidst these aspirations, a crucial realization remains: we cannot aim to solve the world’s vast problems without first addressing the issues festering in our own backyard.
New York City, in all its glory and grit, has taught me that true change begins at home. And as I continue my journey in EMS, I’m driven to make a difference, one call at a time.
Often, in the quiet moments of reflection, I grapple with a whirlwind of questions. With a stable six-figure job, I find myself wondering, “Why do I care so deeply? Is this even my battle to fight? Am I overstepping, trying to shoulder burdens that aren’t mine to bear?” I ponder if others my age, in their mid to late 20s, are consumed by such concerns or if I’m an anomaly.
There’s a societal expectation, a template of sorts, that many in my age bracket seem to follow: making new friends, traveling to exotic locales, indulging in parties, and sipping on the finest drinks. I have the means for it all, yet the allure of such a lifestyle has never resonated with me. Should I force myself into that mold, feigning enjoyment in pursuits I’ve never truly cherished?
But beneath the layers of doubt and societal pressure, there’s an undeniable truth that I often try to suppress: I care. Deep down, despite the facade I sometimes put up, I genuinely care about people. It’s a part of who I am, and no amount of questioning or societal expectations can change that core aspect of my being.
