Those on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic — paramedics, EMTs, firefighters and police officers — faced unprecedented challenges as they navigated the evolving crisis. They responded to emergency calls with limited protective equipment, worked grueling shifts and bore witness to an overwhelming loss of life. While much of the public saw the pandemic through news reports and statistics, first responders lived it — day in and day out.
In the years since, some responders have chosen to document their experiences, not only as a means of processing what they went through, but also to ensure that history does not overlook the realities they endured. Their accounts provide an unfiltered look at the struggles, ethical dilemmas and emotional toll of responding to those in need during a global pandemic. These firsthand accounts are more than personal narratives; they serve as critical records of a system pushed to its limits and the individuals who carried it through.
Funny and heartwarming, inspiring and poignant, “First responder” follows Jennifer’s journey to becoming an EMT and working during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. She will bring readers inside an intense world filled with crisis, rescue, grief, uncertainty and dark humor.
Did we miss a book you think should be included in the list? Email us at editor@ems1.com.
“Modern day Rosies” is an artfully infused story of how Paramedic Kate Bergen faced her demons and dug out her paintbrush. The book is about the women who answered the call to the frontlines of COVID-19, just as Rosie the Riveter had in World War II; each of them scared but determined to help in their own way.
Following one paramedic into hell and back, “Riding the Lightning” tells the story of New York City’s darkest days through the eyes of its frontline medical workers and the community they serve: ordinary people who will continue to make New York an extraordinary place long after it has been reborn from the ashes of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The ultimate edition to celebrate the year of the everyday heroes, who changed our way of seeing the world of work and heroism — a picture book without words, timeless, universal and heart-breaking. “Frontline Heroes” is the book to give to anyone who has known and appreciated these heroes, or who wants to recall the best part of ourselves, in the worst of times.
“Every minute is a day” takes us into a hospital ravaged by Covid-19 and is filled with the stories of promises made that may be impossible to keep, of life or death choices for patients and their families, and of selflessness on the part of medical professionals who put themselves at incalculable risk. As fast-paced and high-tempo as the ER in which it takes place, “Every minute is a day” is, at its core, an incomparable firsthand account of unrelenting compassion, and a reminder that every human life deserves a chance to be saved.
Written by one of the many traveling nurses who left their permanent staff positions to answer the call for frontline medical staff to help combat the largest pandemic this century, “Through my eyes” takes you inside the hospital and tells the stories of those who lived and died during this pandemic.
Kate Bergen taught herself to paint nearly 20 years ago, but it was the pandemic that turned her into an artist
First Responder Deals & Discounts
Discounts available for Military, First Responders, and Government Employees.
Save 10% off shoes and sneakers, clothing, and accessories.
Save up to 10% off hollow-point coffee.
Save up to 20% off coffee roasters and accessories.
Save 10% off grinds coffee pouches.
Save up to 25% off men’s training gear, tactical shorts.
Save 40% off sunglasses and safety glasses.
Save 10% off gas grills and accessories.
Save up to 10% off molded car door protectors.
Save 15% off travel bags, backpacks, duffels, golf and pickleball gear.
Save 15% off silicone bands and silicone engagement rings.
Save 25% off music, sports, talk and podcasts, live and on demand.
Save 10% off squat racks, bundles, and accessories.
Save up to 18% off engagement rings, meteorite rings, wedding bands and accessories.
Save up to 15% off polos, headcovers, hats and tees.
Save up to 20% off pet lovers, coffee lovers, military and blue line supporters, hunting, fishing and outdoor.
Save up to 20% off quartz pocket watches, pendant watches, dual time zone watches.
Save 20% off 100 and 200 level tickets.
Save 15% off golf clubs, golf balls and gear.
Save up to 5% off barbells bumper plates, benches, power racks, kettlebells, squat racks, slam balls.
Save up to 10% off bourbon glass candles, apparel, and hygiene products.
Save up to 5% off roof top tents and overlanding accessories.
Save 20% off affordable sunglasses and accessories.
Save up to 10% off supplements, glucosamine for dogs and cats.
Save 10% off hunting jackets and vests, hunting clothing outlet, hunting pants and shorts.
Save 15% off workout supplies. All products are made in the USA.
Save up to 10% off boutique men’s Swiss watches, straps, and accessories.
Save 20% off tools, trimmers and blades, groin, beard and face, apparel, and accessories.
Save 15% off backpacks, totes, and accessories.
Save up to 10% off truck tailgate net, cargo net, warehouse rack net and accessories.
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