NEW ORLEANS —

While the painful and vivid memories of Hurricane Katrina still exist for so many, the stories of survival — and service — highlight who we were and who we are today.

Twenty years later, stronger. Advertisement

WDSU’s Aubry Killion sat down with the former emergency medical services leader who carried the city through its darkest days.

“I was exactly where I needed to be,” said Dr. Jullette Saussy, former director of New Orleans’ emergency medical services.

Saussy reflects on the life-or-death 911 calls, hard choices and the improvisation that kept thousands alive.

This story includes distressing descriptions related to disaster and loss.

“This was very much like being in war,” Saussy said.

With hospitals shuttered and floodwaters rising, 911 lines were overwhelmed.

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