"People often say that some of the best things in life come when you least expect it. At 16 years old, my sister (who is currently an active “Life” member with 23 years of experience) convinced me that it was time to get off the couch, put down the video game controller, and start using my spare time in a way that can make a positive impact on my community. On April 14th, 2010, I did just that by joining FLVAC. Admittedly I was nervous. Being a sophomore at Fair Lawn High School while going out on 911 emergency medical and trauma calls was
something that I didn’t think I was mentally prepared for. Very quickly I learned that I was mistaken. I was taught that the foundation of any great EMT is a warm heart, a passion for helping others, a gentile smile, and an ability to carry a 23 lb stair chair up a flight of stairs on almost every call. I went on to graduate from EMT school, pass the NJ state exam, received my EMT license, and eventually became a general member.
But in 2013, at 19 years old, my world as I knew it felt like it was thrown into a whirlwind. My father became very sick following years of medical issues and ultimately passed away. While I was experiencing what I considered to be the most difficult time in my life, I was reminded that the members at FLVAC aren’t simply people who you take calls with or ride alongside, they are your second family. They provided support beyond anything that I have ever felt before and assisted with the healing process.
FLVAC is my second home. A place where I was able to grow, mature, build connections, and begin to build my professional career all while continuing to give back to the great Fair Lawn community that I have lived in my entire life.
I am proud and thankful to be a member of the Fair Lawn Volunteer Ambulance Corps. I am proud of my almost 12 years of service, my experience as a 3 time officer, and the great opportunity to be able to train new members. To sum it up, my advice to you is to be proud of the things you do, be good, and join FLVAC.