Elyce Rivera, an Eagleville resident, helped a woman deliver her baby while stuck in traffic during the first few months working as an emergency dispatcher, writes Concepción de León for The New York Times.

Charlotte Fatoma was calling as she was driving along Interstate 76 and Route 476 in Montgomery County, and needed help. She called 911 and Elyce Rivera was able to assist her.

The incident boosted Rivera’s confidence and convinced her that despite the rocky start, the 911 operator position was the right choice for her.

Rivera was working for the city of Philadelphia while doing hair at home before the pandemic.

When her partner, Bennie Tucker, lost his job amid the COVID-19 outbreak, she was motivated to change professions to provide a better life for their daughters, Nyelah and Ryelee.

She also wanted to “be a part of something big,” she said.

In March 2021, she decided to apply to be a 911 operator and join a group of essential workers who have continued to help others and save lives through the trauma of the pandemic.

While it wasn’t an easy road, since it took her several times to pass the entry exam and she struggled to memorize the police zones and municipalities, the delivery call made her realize she chose the right profession.

Read more about Elyce Rivera in The New York Times.