Did you thank a First Responder on October 28th? EMTs, Paramedics, Police, and Fire Fighters and any First Responder certified contribute to our communities as he or she responds to a call whether the call is small or full emergency. They are here to assist us in our need.

Our daughter decided to follow in her father's footsteps as an EMT and is currently attending paramedic school. Not only is she devoted to being an EMT, she is also a volunteer fire fighter. She desires to help those in need while asking for little in return. She has seen and been engaged in the profoundly worst traumas yet continues to get up each day to see the best in people at their darkest time. Her face bears a gentle smile when she leaves the house in the early morning hours or attending to a 911 call. The same is observable as she returns the following day after completing a 24 or 48 hour shift. J carries a lot of weight figuratively and literally with her job specifications. She has gone beyond the call of duty to serve our community and others.  She is my hero!  Daughter- Give God the glory for your success and in His timing you will be where He wants you.

Our son decided to follow in his father's footsteps as a volunteer fire fighter. He is currently in the training stage at the local fire station and attends the weekly meetings. J has one of the most arduous jobs during the day. He works at a funeral home keeping the memorial grounds and laying loved ones in their final resting places. J has formed a deep respect for these sacred grounds.  His personal goal is ensuring the grounds have what is needed in their proper places.  J works to pay for his schooling at the local technical college and the expected date of graduation in engineering is this spring.  He has gone further than we ever expected.  J has a success story of his own to tell.  He is my hero!  Son- I am proud of you and lean on God's guidance seeking His direction for what will come next.

The man who has influenced our children is my husband; Joe wears many hats: former technology teacher, volunteer fire fighter, and an EMT. His first love was being a first responder. I knew this when we met twenty-nine years ago. Joe thrives on a scene. His wealth of knowledge enthralls me as he has a scientific mind and is able to cypher the different medical subjects. When Joe was working full-time, he would be out all hours of the night assisting on a call. One night in particular, Joe responded to our city's fire. This fire totaled several businesses and homes. I arrived on the scene around four in the morning searching for Joe to come home in order to prepare for the school day. Joe was released from the scene as well as many other city and county volunteers to attend to their full-time employments. As I waited, I heard the responders conversing over the grueling fire and its containment due to the team work of the multiple city and county stations.

First responders are on call 24/7. Their dedication is admirable. They are here for you and me and I am not ashamed to call on them if needed.

I am honored to be a wife and mother to first responders. As always- come home safely to me.