Public Spark

Whether it be the emergency workers, family of victims, students witnessing the event unfold on television, many remember September 11th. I can still remember where I was exactly when this tragic event occurred. I was in the freshman dorm room getting ready for my biology class when my hall mates rushed into my room and told me to turn on the television. It was surreal and felt like I was watching a terrible movie. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the airplane head straight into the World Trade Center. I didn’t have relatives nor did I know anyone directly affected, but it still felt like it hit home. I felt helpless. At that time, I was not an emergency medical technician, so I didn’t know what I could do. I called my mom who worked near LAX and I called my dad who worked at LAX. They both said that this situation was surreal and everyone was taking safety precautions. My dad said he felt like he was in chaos, with of all the flights making emergency landings at LAX.

1. Understand that it is a traumatic event even as witnesses

   Just as World War II is etched in people’s minds who lived in the 1940’s, September 11th is in the minds of many millennium century citizens. Watching other people, our colleagues and friends suffering can bring trauma into our lives.

2. For those experiencing it first hand, post-traumatic stress disorder is not uncommon.

   For such a magnitude traumatic event, it is common for one to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

3. Support groups

   In times surrounding traumatic events it is often comforting to be surrounded by those going through the same things.

4. Turn pain into something positive

   Many have turned to volunteering to help the less fortunate, setting up a memorial fund, etc.

5. Use this negative event as a way of strength

   Many have similarly moved on with their lives and look at this as overcoming a challenge.

Please share stories and comments surrounding this traumatic event.