While others that are certified in this field can shout it out to the world , I have to keep it balled up inside. However, I do have a little key chain I dangle from my keys. Ha.
I have always wanted to be a phlebotomist. I really don't know why. I just have. In November 2013, I did something about it. I found a local school that offered these classes and I dove in with a little money I had saved. My Husband just shaking his head. He and my daughter were the only ones that knew I was going after this certification. I was so excited. As hard as it was for me to keep it to myself. I didn't tell anyone until I was finished just incase I failed. I could not wait until it was over so I could announce it to my family.
When the wait was over and I got the call that I passed, I actually cried just a little. Then I waited until just the right moment to share my accomplishments. I barely got out the word "Phlebotomist" until someone screamed "eeeew! Stop right there". I didn't want to cause a ruckus so I hung down my head and shut my mouth. These same family members can talk about hunting and dead animals around the dinner table but lets don't speak anything about human blood. I was so hurt and discouraged.
That was it.
Its been a year now. No one speaks of it. However, I look at and study my notes from class regularly. Almost every day actually. They are all on my phone right at my finger tips. One person tells me I have to stay hush about it because It could result in me loosing the office job I have been at now for 21 years. I don't understand how. I mean, as long as I'm devoted to my job, It does not hurt for others to know that I have some schooling. I agree with him that I cant risk loosing my full time job just yet but that does not mean I cant do Phlebotomy on the side. Get some experience and then one day go on full time somewhere. Somewhere with benefits and professionalism. Somewhere I can make a difference and help people. Somewhere I'm respected.
I am currently in the process of applying as a volunteer for the American Red Cross. I have one more step to take on the application. I would like to volunteer in the blood centers. I think just being around this line of work will help me build confidence and get some experience. A place I can enjoy being at. Even though its "Volunteer". I love helping people and get the satisfaction that I did something to good. I could stay at my full time job and volunteer on the weekends.
Right now, I'm stuck between going for it without any support from family, or just wait and carry my wishes around in my pocket. I really would love to hear the words " Just go for it", "Do what you want to do", "make something better of yourself", "Ill be behind you if you fall". I don't think Ill get that but I know in the long run, ill have some experience that I can fall back on if my current job ever ends. I still have 25 good work years left in me. Um....Just don't do the math.
