LifeNet Inc. celebrated local first responders with a luncheon Tuesday at The Silvermoon on Broad in conjunction with National EMS Week.
About 200 firefighters, policemen, emergency medical technicians and volunteers enjoyed a barbecue lunch from Silver Star Smokehouse during the event.
"We do this annual picnic for all the guys who help us do our job and for our own staff," said David Baumgardner, executive director of LifeNet. "It's a community of people that are helping others. They are like a lot of people in this area. They're quietly helping people in the community, and we like to have the chance to recognize them."
First responders go into stressful, tense and even dangerous situations to help others.
"We all get paid, but it's a calling for these people," Baumgardner said.
Chris Karam, president/CEO of CHRISTUS St. Michael and LifeNet board member, attended the luncheon. He understands from personal experience the impact first responders can have on families.
"You don't appreciate EMS folks until you need them. Five years ago today my wife collapsed in sudden cardiac arrest, and they were able to shock her and save her life. So my perspective when I look at the numbers is they're not just numbers anymore. They have meaning. Since that day my wife has gotten to see two grandchildren born and made a thousand memories. She wouldn't have had that chance except for EMS," Karam said.
This is the 44th annual EMS Week. President Gerald Ford authorized EMS Week in 1974 to recognize the important work emergency medical services personnel do in communities around the country.