HEART

Patricia Winner KM4JIA

After earning my Technical license in March of 2015, I heard Ira and Paula Swartz on the Thursday night Virginia Beach Amateur Radio net looking for volunteers to join the HEART team.  Being a Registered Nurse, I was looking for something medical to get involved in and use my radio license.  Emergency communications for a hospital seemed to fit the bill.  I contacted Ira in June for more information.  Ira and Paula were so passionate about the program I couldn’t help but get excited.  I filled out the application, submitted my license and completed all the required courses. 

On July 9th, I received my Welcome letter.  When asked what facility I wanted, I asked for SPAH, but Patrick beat me to it!  I took Chesapeake Regional Medical Center instead and it has been a great experience.  I met with both the volunteer coordinator and the emergency manager to complete CRMC’s orientation program.  As a HEART team member, I participate in most of the bi-monthly nets.  I am a backup net control as needed.  I check in on the CRMC radio shack monthly to assure all equipment is ready for any operation necessary.   I practice sending and receiving messages both verbal and via Winlink.  HEART team members also participate in Emergency Preparedness drills whenever possible.  Since becoming a CRMC Amateur Radio operator, I also volunteer on Sundays at the Garden Entrance responsible for greeting visitors and giving patient information.  I have enjoyed my time with the HEART program and look forward to future service.