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Q: What skills do you believe are essential for someone in your position?Multi-tasking, communications, emotional control, active listening and control under pressure.I believe that multi-tasking is essential due to the need to handle multiple incoming calls and dispatch emergency services simultaneously. Effective communication skills are crucial for conveying critical information clearly and efficiently to first responders and callers. Emotional control is important for remaining focused and composed when dealing with high-stress situations. Active listening is necessary for accurately understanding the details of emergency situations and providing the appropriate assistance. The ability to remain composed under pressure is vital for making quick and accurate decisions that can have a significant impact on the outcome of emergency situations.Q: How has your experience as a cancer survivor influenced your approach to your work?My experience as a cancer survivor has significantly influenced my approach to my work as a 911 emergency medical dispatcher. Having seen cancer from a different perspective, I have learned to apply a positive outlook to serving as an advocate for others. This positive mindset has allowed me to approach each call with empathy and understanding, especially when dealing with callers who are either cancer patients themselves or relatives calling for their loved ones who are very ill from cancer and other illnesses.Moreover, my determination during my cancer treatments has also shaped my work ethic. Despite facing the challenges of undergoing cancer treatments, I continued to pursue my education to become a Paramedic. I didn%u2019t let my illness deter me from achieving my goals, and I successfully graduated a year later than planned. I was unable to work as a Paramedic due to the adverse effects from treatment (I was still in a wheelchair at the time) but the experience has instilled in me a strong sense of determination and resilience, which I bring to my role as a 911 dispatcher and activist enabling me to provide compassionate and unwavering support to those in need.Q: Can you share how you balance your demanding job with being a mother of two?Balancing a demanding job, fitness workouts, labour union leadership, and raising two kids can be challenging, but it%u2019s possible with strategic planning and time management. Here are my top 5:1. Prioritize and schedule: Set clear priorities and schedule your days meticulously. Allocate specific time slots for work, workouts, responsibilities, and quality time with your spouse and kids.2. Incorporate family fitness: Include your kids in your fitness routine with family-friendly physical activities like bike rides, hikes, or playing sports.3. Delegate and seek support: Delegate tasks at work and seek support from your spouse, family, friends, or childcare provider.4. Efficient workouts: Opt for time-efficient workouts like HIIT or circuit training and consider home workouts or early morning/post-work exercise sessions.5. Set boundaries and practice self-care: Carve out time for self-care and relaxation to avoid burnout.Remember, finding balance is an ongoing process, and it%u2019s okay to adjust your approach as needed. Flexibility and adaptability are key to successfully juggling diverse roles in your life.Q: How do you manage stress and emotional strain in such a high-pressure job?In addition to focusing on self-care, nutrition, and fitness, managing stress and emotional strain in a high-pressure job has played a significant role in shaping my identity as an activist. The emotional strain I encountered in my demanding job inspired me to champion better mental health awareness and support in the workplace. This experience has motivated me to advocate for a healthy work-life balance and prioritize mental well-being. By channeling my work-related stress into positive energy during my workouts, I%u2019ve gained a deeper appreciation for the value of having an outlet to release the pressures of work. This has not only made my body stronger but has also strengthened my mind, emphasizing the importance of mental health. Additionally, having a support system of family, friends, and colleagues who understand the emotional strain of this type of work has been incredibly beneficial.MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 49 85