The WJS Team and the Fort McMurray Wildfires
News of the Fort McMurray wildfires have been front and center, not just here but throughout the world. A city of 90,000 people suddenly evacuated. We saw horrific pictures of cars and trucks gridlocked with fires on both sides. Yet, did you notice that despite what was clearly an incredibly traumatic and scary situation, there wasn’t panic. Order prevailed. People ran out of gas and others gave them gas or gave them rides.
One of our staff was in one of the cars driving straight down a grassy hill towards the traffic on the highway – with the flames at her back and the cars in front. A trucker recognized what could have been another disaster and used his vehicle to block off a lane so they could safely merge.
The commitment of our staff who stayed with our clients throughout the days it took to get them to safety, first to a series of evacuation centres, and then by plane to Edmonton. Their commitment, focus, reassurance and care ensured that the clients knew they were safe. Their continued commitment to them through the following days until more staff could arrive and take over some shifts. Throughout all, we saw how well each of the clients adjusted to this incredible disruption in their lives.
One client noticed the stress that was being placed on her staff and responded by doing her part. The clients who helped me unload the boxes I brought to their new house. Everyone being their absolute best to make this not just ok but good for everyone else. Our Edmonton staff who stepped forward to work some shifts. The great team here who arranged everything from contacting each evacuee to see how they were, what they needed and then set out to ensure those essentials were here for them. The offers of help, the donations.
All around the province we are witnessing the outpouring of care and concern as well as the amazing acts of kindness and braver — the incredible first responders; the committed folks rescuing pets; the wonderful volunteers manning the evacuation centres and providing food, clothing and support; the spontaneous givers who filled gas tanks, handed out water and food to the evacuees, took people into their homes. All around the country, the amazing donations from individuals and companies. People reaching out to each other in little ways and big ways.
It all says that each of us has a part to play in our communities, that we can each make life better for someone. I hope we can all remember to keep this spirit when the fires are no longer on the news and past the time when everyone is safely home.