DURING NATIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATORS WEEK, CSLEA IS SHINING THE SPOTLIGHT ON ITS PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHERS AND COMMUNICATIONS OPERATORS! THESE BEHIND-THE-SCENES FIRST RESPONDERS HAVE A VITAL ROLE IN PUBLIC SAFETY AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE.
CSLEA/CHP-PSDA Member Christine Johnson, a public safety dispatcher at CHP
By CSLEA/CHP-PSDA Member Christine Johnson, Public Safety Dispatcher, Los Angeles Communications Center
LOS ANGELES – Wait !!! Say what ? 10-9. Doctor your 10-1. “Christine, you have breast cancer.” …. And this is how my journey as a Pink Warrior began May 27, 2015 …
As a 25-year employee of the California Highway Patrol, I have dealt with countless emergency situations, but now I have an emergency. How am I going to handle this?
I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. I was given different options, but I elected for a double mastectomy. Drastic yes, but this was the best option for me.
I endured four surgeries over a four-month period due to complications of necrosis and a very bad infection.
During this time my faith never wavered. Even through the down times I knew I would get through this.
My support system was PHENOMENAL! My husband, family, and my LACC CHP FAMILY stood by my side. They took me to doctors’ appointments, cooked and kept a smile on my face.
Today, I am cancer free and back to saying “911 emergency what are you reporting?” very thankful and all with a smile.
