In a busy world becoming increasingly self-obsessed, it feels good to know people still look out for one another.
I had a classmate one semester with a medical condition that struck randomly. She told the instructor what to do if she had an attack in class.
Good thing because one day, she suddenly started having trouble breathing.
Another classmate responded quickly, running for the nurse to bring an oxygen tank while the instructor called the woman’s husband. Other students helped her stay in her seat and later some guys helped her walk to her husband’s car for the trip to the hospital.
The next class, we all wanted to know if she was OK.
With more and more people allergic to more and more things and freak accidents happening often, the world can be a scary, lonely place when a person needs help.
It’s good to know TCC students are willing to help make the world a friendlier place.
But how do we keep our help from being too much or unwanted? It’s simple.
First, remember if a class member has special medical needs.
If people look like they are in trouble, ask. A simple “You OK?” will work. And they won’t think you’re that weird.
If they need help beyond simple things, call the district emergency dispatcher at 817-515-8911 for all campuses.
The TCC dispatcher can contact a nurse, a police officer or outside emergency help faster and more effectively than a student can and give more complete directions if an ambulance is needed.
If the person is having trouble speaking, paper and pencil often allow better communication than gestures and mumbles.
Don’t do anything you aren’t qualified or are uncomfortable doing, and don’t put yourself in danger.
Finally, if something needs to be done now, make a scene. People in the halls may have experience or training to help where you can’t.
And helping goes both ways. Who knows, maybe that good feeling inside will make the next exam a little easier.
