My career at AMR in Springfield came to an end this past Monday night. I was going to put up a post about my last shift, trying to take all of you through my night step by step, but it was a pretty “ordinary” night for the most part. There were a few goodbyes sent, a few coffees shared, but all in all, the only thing that made it memorable for me was the fact that it was my “swan song.” My twelve year career came to a close at 6:30am when I punched out for the last time, took a deep breath, and walked out the door.
The rest of my week was spent catching up with friends both new and old to say one last goodbye. I was humbled and overwhelmed by the turnout at our local watering hole of people who showed up to say one last goodbye and share a beer or two. Or three. Or maybe four.
The great turn out at O’Brien’s Corner
I have to say that if anyone is ever in Western Massachusetts and you’re looking to enjoy a beer, O’Brien’s Corner in Springfield is the only place to go. I’ve had many a beer, a lot of breakfasts and some great memories that were created just by pulling up a stool to the bar.
Thursday night was my time to say “see you soon” to some folks from my part time job. They gave me this great picture as a going away present. I don’t normally work through the fall so I have not been present for many of the group pictures that they’ve taken from year to year. Their response was to photoshop me into the picture. Well done guys!
The house was completely loaded into a UHaul Thursday night, and Friday I made the move south to my new “headquarters.” The unpacking was done, a stop was made in New Jersey, and right now I am in my dad’s car typing away as we roll across the Tapanzee Bridge about two hours away from Springfield. I’ll make one last stop there, pick up some precious cargo (the cat) and head back south for my four hour trek. Monday I start the new job which is nerve wracking and exciting all at the same time.
Saying goodbye was not easy. I have had some great times both on the job and off it. Many of the on the job experiences are ones that I have shared with all of you, with plenty more to come now that I will have a little more freedom to write about my time in Springfield. The off the job ones are the ones I will really remember though. I have made some great friends over the years, and I have worked with some amazing EMT’s and paramedics that have become great friends. Those memories that have been created will stay with me for a lifetime.
Yes, I’m Photoshopped into the picture. Great job, guys.
It is crazy to think that I have worked at the same service for the last twelve years. It is where I was heading that first morning I sat in the parking lot dry heaving next to my car because I was so nervous about my first shift as a cleared paramedic. I pushed my first epi there. I tubed my first patient. I saw my first gunshot wound. All of it happened there, and now, as quickly as it started it is ending.
That is okay though, it is time to create some new memories and have some new great experiences. I look forward to continuing to share my insights with all of you. You might just need to bear with me as I get a little sappy for a post or two.