THE IV THERAPY MISHAP

     You see, paramedics are a creative bunch when it comes to having a good time. Amidst the hours of studying anatomy and pathology, learning to read electrocardiograms, and administering medications, we found ways to inject laughter into our lives.

     One particular story stands out from my time in school. It was the day we learned how to do IV therapy. Now, let me tell you, fishing for someone's vein is no easy task. So, when it came time to practice on live human beings, bruises and marks were inevitable.

     My friend and I were paired up for this exercise. Neither of us had a knack for finding veins or inserting the intravenous needle smoothly. As a result, our arms were covered in colorful bruises by the end of the day. But surprisingly, we both managed to gain some confidence and successfully start a few IVs.

     After school that day, my friend had to run an errand to the mall to buy some new guitar strings. Being proud paramedic students, we strutted through the mall in our uniforms, expecting the usual attention and admiration. However, something was off. People seemed to be keeping their distance from us, and even parents were pulling their children away.

     Confused, he and I exchanged puzzled looks. It wasn't until I glanced at his arms and then my own that the truth hit us like a ton of bricks. We looked like a pair of IV drug users, with track marks running up and down our arms like a roadmap of failed attempts. No wonder people were giving us strange looks!

     Unable to contain our laughter, we quickly left the mall, realizing that our appearance had caused quite the misunderstanding. Because we were laughing so hard, I’m sure people thought we were high on something and /or on our way to do more.

     Thankfully, the bruises eventually faded away. However, my classmate and I made a pact never to set foot in that mall again during the school year. It was a hilarious and slightly embarrassing lesson learned.

     But despite the occasional mishaps and misunderstandings, my time in paramedic school was truly transformative. It solidified my passion for helping others and taught me the importance of finding joy even in the most challenging moments. And hey, at least my classmate and I shared a good laugh along the way.