Since I have time on my hands, I am always looking for something to do. My friend that talked me into driving the limousines, has another business where he provides non-emergency medical transport. He asked me if I was interested and I told him of course. After all, I needed something to keep me out of trouble, and you can only watch so many hours of Sports Center in a day.
My main concern when I started driving the limousines, was the thought of having to drive in Salt Lake traffic. (Commonly known as the Mormon 500) My friend told me most of the limousine trips are around Idaho Falls and Jackson. Now while I haven’t had to drive a limo in Salt Lake, two of the medical transport trips have been down to the University of Utah hospital in Salt Lake and back to Pocatello. The two times I had to drive to Salt Lake, I picked up the ambulance the night before, and met my friend at the Stake Center where we play basketball. Needless to say, it was a little disconcerting to the guys at basketball when they noticed I brought an ambulance. How bad is he going to foul us that he needs an ambulance was the general question asked?
It has been quite a learning experience for me. The back of the ambulance is much wider than the cab, so you have to be extremely observant of traffic on both sides. There is a panel of switches that I needed to learn what they operate. The hardest part has been learning how to operate the gurney. I am happy to say everything has gone well on the trips I have made.
The nurses that have gone with me on these trips have been excellent and very professional. It’s a comfort to know while I’m driving, they are providing the patient with the absolute best care possible. I am proud to know them and to call them my friend.
The best things I have witnessed through these experiences is the many examples of love and compassion. I have watched many health care professionals express their heartfelt wishes to the patients with tears in their eyes. I have seen family members by the patient’s side and knew they have been with them throughout their treatment. It’s these things that remind me of the important things in life. These are the times that help me realize how blessed I am for the wonderful family and friends I have in my life. I am grateful for my Angel Shannon and the strength she gives me. I will always LOVE AND MISS YOU sweetheart.
Next week: Book challenge
P.S. The secret to survive driving in Utah, is to drive like they do. So, when I need to change lanes, I just go for it. They will move out of the way of an ambulance. My only Utah driving flaw; I still use my turn signal.