As I’ve traveled around Kansas in the past few years with this project and Jon’s photography projects, I’ve appreciated hearing many stories. There are stories of EMS services who provide all types of medical service to their communities that go beyond “emergency” services. There are stories of educators who have created unique learning opportunities that exist nowhere outside of Kansas. There are stories of dedicated people who run calls 24/7 in their communities, because they are the few willing to volunteer. And I’ve met spouses and children who support the commitment to service by their spouses, parents, and grandparents.

Our stories help us to make sense of the world. Stories allow us to pass along our understanding of how the world works to our family and friends. Stories move us to the past and to the future. Stories can move us in new directions when we see how past cycles repeat and we choose to get ‘unstuck’.

Most of all, stories connect us to each other. They help to create a shared Map of the World. I count it a privilege to enter into the world of Kansas EMS. I have great hope as we enter this transition process, hope that it will become part of the story of Kansas EMS.