On Wednesday, Monadnock Community Hospital recognized Emergency Medical Services providers at the annual EMS Dinner. Providers from Antrim Fire and Ambulance, Dublin Fire Department, Francestown Fire Department, Hancock Fire Department, Jaffrey Fire Department, Jaffrey-Rindge Memorial Ambulance, Peterborough Fire and Rescue, Rindge Fire Department, Souhegan Valley Ambulance, and Wilton Fire Department, attended the evening’s event at the Hilltop Golf Club, where they were honored as vital partners in our community’s care.
Chief of NH’s Bureau of EMS, Justin Romanello, was the evening’s guest speaker and recognized all of the hard work our EMS providers do every day.
“It is not an easy job,” Romanello said. “Not everyone can do what you do. Constantly, putting others before yourself is the most selfless act you can do and some days can be harder than others. Always remember that you need to make time for yourself too, both mentally and physically; self-care is incredibly important in our industry.” Chief Romanello went on to discuss how everyone needs an outlet or someone to talk to. He even offered his own availability, saying, “if you don’t have someone you can trust and confide in, you can always call me.”
Chief Romanello’s talk was relatable and timely as Jaffrey Fire Department lost one of their own over the weekend, 30 year old Firefighter and EMT, Cara Campbell. Campbell was memorialized with a table, picture, and rose, remembering her as a bright light and integral part of Jaffrey Fire Department’s family. Condolences from all speakers were shared and a moment of silence was observed, in honor of Cara.
Dr. Stephen Buzzell, MCH’s Pre-Hospital Director and Emergency Room Physician, shared his condolences saying that he was on duty the night of Campbell’s death. “I was in awe when I looked outside in the early hours of the morning to see the parking lot filled with Jaffrey Fire Department vehicles,” Dr. Buzzell said, “that was truly community.” He echoed Chief Romanello’s remarks, reminding providers that even though this can be a very tough job and sometimes frustrations and lack of compassion can find its way in, “the empathy wall has two sides, always be on the side with the light.”
This year, two awards for EMS Provider of the Year for outstanding service to the community were presented. The EMS Provider Award recipients were Karen Seelley, of Souhegan Valley Ambulance and Sherry Miller, of Antrim Fire and Ambulance.