Be the First Responder! by Heather

Be the First Responder! by Heather - June 2025 Scholarship Essay

As an Emergency Medical Technician, helping others and saving lives is kind of my "thing." I have witnessed an extraordinary amount of hope, tragedy, and lives changed during my 7 years in the field.

I believe that a lack of awareness and confidence surrounding medical emergencies is a preventable hurdle in pre-hospital healthcare. We have all seen news stories, social media videos, and TV shows that demonstrate how important it is to have someone with the knowledge and skills to handle an emergency effectively nearby in a time of need. Whether it is children choking, cardiac events, or complete accidents, emergencies surround us every day. Gaining hands-on experience, exposure to different aspects of emergencies, and how to perform small actions that make a big difference during an emergency situation would increase awareness and preparedness in communities.
I am a firm believer that knowledge and practice are power. A mandatory CPR/First Responder class would elevate communities, increase bystander input and confidence, and have a positive impact on lifesaving efforts.
Having even a minimal amount of knowledge and training surrounding what to do when an emergency occurs can be life-saving and alter the entire course of someone's future! Teaching and supporting others is a passion of mine and I would love to see others able to support and assist their family, friends, neighbors, and community in times of trouble!