Disaster Relief

Disaster strikes and the world mourns. Tsunamis, earth quakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, fires... mother nature is a force to be reckoned with despite all our advanced technology and communications. The scenes from Joplin are surreal... the tragedy unimaginable.

I look at the images and it's as though someone is whispering shouting in my ear, "You are meant to be a part of the team that heads into the hell that is the aftermath of places like this!" I feel it in my bones. My decision to change careers and become a nurse has brought many obstacles and a bit of heartache. At times I feel discouraged, but today there is no question. I'm supposed to be part of disaster relief. Period.

I don't have the guts to rush into a burning building like the firefighters. I also don't have the guts to be a crime fighter like the cops. I don't have the money to donate to relief organizations and I don't know a thing about construction or logistics to help with the cleanup. I do, however, have the innate desire to help heal and comfort those in need.

Without a husband or kids or mortgage (all things I'm perfectly happy to be without) I'm uniquely able to dash out the door at a moment's notice and head to all corners of the earth and do what I can to help provide medical care to those in need. In my mind it would be selfish of me not to! Call it a superhero complex, call it dangerous and insane... I call it my purpose. I'm not satisfied just donating money and saying prayers. I need to be there to help pick up the pieces.

Article on disaster relief for Joplin

Red Cross 

The Salvation Army 

Graduation seems a long way off. In the mean time, prayers and donations will do.