I still think about you every day and wonder if you would be proud of me. I still remember that day like it was yesterday. I will always keep your memory alive for as long as I am on this earth, as you three paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. I hope you three know how much you are loved and missed here by us.
-Anonymous Dispatcher
WALK THROUGH THE GARDEN
Every flower holds something someone needed to put down.
These words were left anonymously by dispatchers.
Read gently. Leave them when you go.
For the consequences of my actions, and the guilt and shame I’ve carried with them. For the version of me who was burned out, depressed, anxious, lonely and hurting—and kept pretending I was okay until I couldn’t anymore.
Today, I’m leaving some of that here.
-Anonymous Dispatcher
20 mins. that's how long I did CPR with your friend until help got on the scene. I'm sorry I didn't save you.
-Anonymous Dispatcher
Mine was the last voice you ever heard. I hope I was able to give you an ounce of comfort.
-Anonymous Dispatcher
You didn't feel like living but didn't want to give any information for us to find you. I talked to you for awhile and listened to your life story. You said you were better. A few months you called back to tell me you were still here. Thank you for that.
-Anonymous Dispatcher
I tried to help you save your dad. You did such a good job. You did everything you could, and you never gave up on him. You sounded about the same age I was when I lost my dad, and I will never forget the sound of your cry.
-Anonymous Dispatcher
Gun in hand and dog by your side. You called to let your family know where your body would be. Such a short call… could I have changed your mind? I don’t think so but I tried. I will carry you with me.
-Anonymous Dispatcher
You were my first CPR. Your wife called, she begged and pleaded with you not to go. I told her exactly what to do, but we couldn’t save you. In those minutes, she did not grieve alone.
-Anonymous Dispatcher
I’ve never forgotten about the veteran who begged me to stay while he talked about his own horrors.. I don’t know where he is now but I hope he’s okay…
-Anonymous Dispatcher
Carrying one of your own?
