In Times of Trouble, Look for the Helpers
Written by Megan Hamilton - March 2020
In times of trouble you can always find the helpers, in our case you can always hear them. Dispatchers are the first responder to make contact with those in need, and during these times that need is even higher. We didn’t come into these jobs in the 911 industry expecting a world wide pandemic, but we came prepared to help. We didn’t come into this job expecting to wear PPE to work everyday, but we came prepared to help. We didn’t come to work expecting to be shut away from the public, but we came prepared to help.
Hearts are breaking in centers across the nation as we no longer see our officers, we no longer share meals in the comm center, we no longer are able to hug a coworker during a bad call. Times are tough, but I’m here to tell you, you are tougher. You are going to get through this one gloved hand at a time. There is going to be a sunny day after all this rain, you have stepped up in ways no one could of imagined they’d have to ask you to.
You are the helper, you are who Mr. Rogers was talking about, you are the helper people look to in scary times. You have an enormous weight on your shoulder, but damn you’re wearing it well.
You are finding ways to reach out, ways to celebrate wins, and you’re using your social media to reach the community. Its impressive.
I get it, its exhausting but we didn’t come to this job to relax. We came to help and we aren’t going anywhere.
You’re more than essential. You my dear are the First, First Responder, you answer the cries for help and send the cavalry all while keeping your fellow responder safe. Have you taken a second to recognize how truly bad ass that is? Have you let yourself take a deep breath in the midst of chaos and realize you’re not in this alone? There are dispatchers across the nation in the trenches with you and we are going to make it. We are going to keep answering the call and maintaining the amazing care and customer service our callers deserve and we are so wonderful at giving.
At the end of this, grant yourself the time to relax, you did it! Pat your partner on the back and move on to the next call with confidence, you are where you belong you are a hero.