My Last ER Shift

At 11:26 pm, on February 13, 2018 I swiped my badge for the last time at Long Beach Memorial Hospital. I will really miss this job and my colleagues. Seriously.

As I sit and reflect on my life, I find myself humbled. Humbled by the business that takes place all around me, the real fight for life and struggle against death, the palpable emotions of situations I often find myself in, and the incredible strength of those whom I work alongside. It’s the stuff movies are made of and it is truly amazing to watch.

Working in an Emergency Department creates such an interesting outlook on life. One that knows and understands all to well the fragility of every single breath and the vital importance of embracing all aspects of living, even the scary ones. We are the truest definition of realism.

For those of you who don’t do what we do, who haven’t seen things that can not be unseen, be thankful. Be thankful that you don’t have to know what we know, and that you live in a world where there are people who are able to internalize all of this. People who can go to work and do things that most simply can not fathom; and for those of you who found themselves beside me in the trenches, thank you. Thank you for being selfless, for giving and giving when I know sometimes you feel like there is nothing left to give. Thank you for doing what is right, even when no one is watching.

I know sometimes you laugh when something is going wrong, and people think you are crazy, but the only other option is crying and if you start you may never stop. I know you’re tired, I know you hurt, and I know you love your job so much that you can’t imagine doing anything else. I was so proud to be a part of this with you, you all amaze me, and even the days that don’t seem extraordinary, are.

To the friends I have made over the last few years, I will think of you often and hope that you find time to take care of yourselves. We are so invested in taking care of other people, we sometimes forget to stop and really look around at all the blessings we have.  Life is short, and we of all people, know - that in the blink of an eye it can all be over.

Bless your hearts. 

 ❤️

Thanks for the memories...