I didn’t know when I became a firefighter that showing up on someone’s worst
day of his or her life would make me feel honorable. If I can make someone’s
day better or easier or less stressful by just showing up I am better for it.

Duty, honor and commitment. Those are the Hoodland words printed on all
our buildings and in our literature. Looking at these themes it is humbling to
know I can make a difference. Sometimes it means just holding a patient’s
hand, or helping the paramedics do their job better and faster.

I have had many human losses in my life. Stephanie, my favorite baby sitter,
died in a car accident when I was only five. My favorite aunts passed away,
one from a hit and run accident and the other from cancer. Bobby, my first
true love, died in my arms when I was 18 after receiving a gunshot wound to
the chest. My niece was murdered at 16. Looking back I wonder with my
training as an EMT and as a firefighter if I could have saved Bobbi or if a
volunteer or paid first responder could have saved my favorite babysitter or
my niece, who died before getting to the hospital.

Once I got going, the training really made me think about all my bad days
that could have turned out differently if a person had decided to volunteer and
learn the tools and techniques that would make a difference in an individual
and family’s life.

It is hard physical work and at 56 I want to make sure I stay injury free. I
have to be able to pull a 100-pound tire. Lift 60 pounds over my head. Pull a
limp body from a fire. Climb two-story ladders with 40 pounds on my back
and also carry a 20-pound tool. I was in good shape before I started the
training, yet firefighter shape is a different deal.

Now three years later I am lighter on my feet and can bench press close to
my own weight. I want to be my best if I show up on someone’s worst day.

There are so many opportunities for learning in the firefighter world. I can
study about: fire safety building codes, operating an engine, becoming a
juvenile fire setter expert, how to communicate succinctly on the radio, or
even become a paramedic.

I had an opportunity to go out on a wild fire this summer in John Day. I have
never worked so hard in my life. I climbed hills at a 40 percent vertical daily
all day. Please think about others and their property before striking a match
or setting off fireworks.

When I drive on Hwy. 26 I remember the accidents. I think about the families
who were affected by these accidents and wonder why a text or phone call is
so important to take while driving. Then there are those drunk drivers who
think it important to have another cocktail before getting in their vehicles.

Becoming a firefighter has changed my world. There were a few days I didn’t
think I would make it. A few days I cried. I had to dig deep to accomplish the
mental and physical tasks. The challenges have made me younger and more
flexible in both thought and physical strength. I have to give my time, learn
new skills, learn new ways to think, act with calm intent and mostly give with
my heart. As a firefighter and first responder I have new meaning. I get to
show up on someone’s worst day and make a human difference.

The deadline for applications to become a volunteer firefighter at the
Hoodland Fire District is 5 p.m., Monday, Jan. 4. For more information, call
503-622-3256.