WKBT
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LA CROSSE, Wisc. — For most, the day before Christmas is considered a holiday...a day free from work, but for paramedics at Tri-State Ambulance, Christmas Eve is just another day of helping those who need it the most. “The thing is everyday, no matter whether it’s a holiday or a regular day so to speak, being able to be there in the time of somebody’s need. Whether it be a true emergency or just being there for somebody, that may be a little bit more rewarding during the holidays” says Tri-State Paramedic Nick Eastman.
Not only do scheduled paramedics work during the holidays, but volunteer EMT workers have to always be ready for emergency calls as well, holiday or not. “This morning I was sitting at home with my family and my pager did go off, my family’s used to that. It doesn’t matter if it’s Christmas or any other day of the week, that’s just what we do” says Spring Grove Volunteer EMT Kristie Cody.
EMT workers not only miss spending holidays with their families, but other important occasions as well. “It’s not just the holidays that we miss, it’s those other days too. Family birthdays, graduations, things like that, are something to think as well too, and not just the paid services, like the ambulance service, fire department...things like that...but the volunteer services as well” Eastman added.
Full Story: EMS personnel acknowledge time spent during holidays