By Bill Carey
EMS1
DENVER — Denver Health announced the delivery of 10 new ambulances, the largest number to join the fleet at one time, thanks to donations encouraged by a former patient.
Denver Health CEO Donna Lynne and Chief Paramedic Gary Bryskiewicz were joined by Mayor Mike Johnston and Denver Health patient Jessica Barclay and her husband, Colin, recently to present the new ambulances, CBS Denver reported.
“These ambulances represent our message to the community that Denver Health will continue to meet the needs of the people of Denver when they are having their toughest days and scariest moments,” Lynne said.
In 2021, Barclay was transported by paramedics to Denver Health after suffering a head injury at work.
“I was moved to the OR immediately, and had a craniotomy that saved my life,” Barclay said. “But then, after they saved my life, the paramedics went on to save 100 more people that day.”
Barclay said she thought about that during her recovery made the decision to support the Denver paramedics.
“First, we have to thank the people who saved my life,” Barclay said. “Then we have to do something about it.”
Two of the 10 ambulances were paid for by generous gifts raised by the Barclays and their relationship with the Denver Health Foundation and a matching donation from the Anschutz Foundation.