I also am going back to school this semester (say what?!). I have felt for a while like my mind is atrophying and that I need to better myself in an academic way but I couldn't find something that was do-able with kids and a husband in a Master's program, and that interested me. I found it! I am taking a course to certify as an EMT-B.
This is very strange for me. If you know me you know that I avoid medical things/fields because 1)I don't like science 2) even the mention of blood/needles makes me wozzy 3) people in discomfort make me uncomfortable/even sick and 4)it's a field I thought I'd never really be that good at (mainly because of the previously mentioned aversions). But I had some experiences this year that really changed my thinking. The first was the illness and passing of my grandfather. The days leading up to his passing, I was able to be at his bedside caring for him. I didn't get wozzy or uncomfortable--in fact it was an honor to help him. I felt like I was doing some good even if it was only rearranging him so that he'd be more comfortable or clearing his airway so he could breath a little easier.The second experience was on our way to Idaho this summer. We stopped at a rollover accident before EMS had arrived. Trent jumped right in stabilizing the woman, assessing her injuries. and working with an off-duty paramedic that had also stopped. I held a blanket over them as they worked so that they wouldn't be in direct sunlight. What amazed me was that there was blood--a significant amount--and I didn't get wozzy, in fact, I barely gave it a moment's thought. I had an overwhelming urge to help. Now I didn't really do anything that important, but I wanted to be down there talking with her, assessing her injuries, keeping her calm and conscious until the ambulance arrived. After, when we were driving away, I was on such a high I can't even explain. I had just thrown myself into a situation I would normally avoid like the plague because of my fears. I realized then that the medical field could actually be something I could do and it was time to overcome my fears and grow.
This is my third week in school. I absolutely LOVE it!!!! Not just that fact that I get to be around adults (and away from the kids) learning for 4 hours a day, 3 days a week--but I love what I'm learning. (I have even teared up twice now because I was so excited and happy to be there. I'm a nerd, don't worry). It feels good to be working my brain in a new way. I am excited about what I'm learning and it's great to come home and discuss it with Trent. It's given me a new level of confidence that I haven't had in a very long time. I am excited to see this through, hopefully pass my certifications, and be able to work in the field. Hopefully when Trent is done with his program I can go back and get my paramedic license, but one thing at a time. . .
My training badge.
