I'm an emergency dispatcher in Los Angeles. I've handled countless calls today, some which have left me heartbroken; despite the emotional toll, i know i must remain professional and focused. There was a devastating earthquake about an hour ago so we're still in the thick of it, calls continuously coming in, leaving us immensely busy. Yet again 'incoming call' pops up on the screen as that familiar ring tone reaches my ears. I brush a tear away from my cheek, a leftover from the previous call. I take a deep breath, steeling myself before answering.

"911, what's your emergency" I say calmly hiding the leftover shakiness in my voice.