Paramedic George Steffensen discusses his book Paramedic Buff to Burnt
In Buff to Burnt George looks back on his career as a medic in New York city and shares stories from his career to promote the outstanding work of EMS professionals and to help new medics understand what to expect. Like a lot of rookies, George started his career with buff and bravado. Over time the abuses of the EMS system caused him burnout. We talk a bit about burnout and continuing to find passion for the job.
During our conversation George shares a couple of his favorite stories. In one situation he found himself in the midst of a spouse trying to cover-up an extra marital affair. In another he tells how a patient’s son recognized that George and his partner needed help and was able to stabilize the situation instead of making it worse.
George told me that the act of writing was done all at once. The book is a short and quick read for new medics and people who are generally interested in the stories and contributions of EMS. George is working on another book that he hopes to continue after retiring. George is still working as a medic in Baton Rouge, LA and is active with his departments Bike Team.
George and I also discussed his involvement in the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride. George rides in Louisiana to honor his partner who was killed on September 11. Learn more about the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride at muddyangels.org.
To contact George and support his ride email him at georgedownsouth@yahoo.com
