I'm here...

I'm 42 and wanted to be a firefighter like my Dad for over 20 years, but was always too heavy. I had my surgery in June 2003, lost enough weight to join a volunteer company about 2 years ago, became an EMT-B and Fire Lieutenant and love that I can now do the job! Pay sucks, but it is one of the most proud and rewarding things I've ever done! Hopefully this board will get going, I'll check in every few days ...Lt. John, LPFD

Congrats on all that, Lt. I have been away from the fire side for about 6 years now mostly because our city is a 3 service structure. I miss it a lot and hope to get involved as a volunteer soon. My wife and I are still making some "life decisions" about where we are gonna finally settle down and put out our roots. My ability to participate in the fire service is one of the deciding factors. Thanks for participating on the board and I look forward to getting to know you better.

Hi John, It is nice to see other members looking at this sight. I am a paramedic EMT-P. I have beeing working full time for 13 years. I live and work in Nova Scotia Canada. I was a nurse for about 12 years before that. Love the job, the people you meet and satisfaction in your ability to make a difference. I also have a problem with a little fluff myself. I am booked for the lap-band in mid May. My bags are already packed. Can't wait. Instead of carrying all of the bags and cot along with the extra wt, I will be carrying only what I need to be. HaHa. I want to be able to do my job for a bit longer. So it I the wt. doesn't get off I am afraid that it will be shortened. Looking forward in hear more from our fellow EMS. Bye for now Laurie

I am glad that you are able to do the job now. I have always been heavy and was almost hired as a fire fighter but they took the older applicant becuase they thought he would make a big stink because they did not hire him. Oh well. I am working on my clearences and can't wait to have this done. I have not worked in the street side of emergency services for awhile and want to get back. I crashed my motorcycle in June 1992 and almost died while headed to a paramedic refresher. I went back but after another year I was having issues so I stopped and miss it. I went to the pulomnary doctor yesterday and I went from 53% lung capacity in 1998 down to 47% Lung Compacity. Hence I can't do much like I use to. Can't wait to get back active.