The Ontario government honoured paramedics from across the province with the Ontario Medal for Paramedic Bravery, which is given to paramedics who have demonstrated great courage.
Eleven paramedics were recognized in a ceremony on May 27, 2024, at the Royal Ontario Museum.
“I am delighted to have this opportunity to shine a light on the bravery of our province’s paramedics. They face dangerous situations that require a great deal of courage, and their actions help create more caring communities,” said Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. “These awards will help Ontarians learn about the selflessness and heroism demonstrated by the 11 recipients and appreciate their remarkable service.”
Here in Muskoka, paramedic Matt Hickey was recognized for risking his life to save a family during a fire.
On October 25, 2019, Hickey and his partner, along with Ontario Provincial Police officers, responded to a house fire. At the scene, they found a house surrounded by thick smoke with a woman holding two children at the second storey window.
Despite the threat posed to them by the heavy smoke, Hickey, his partner, and an OPP officer made their way into the house to rescue the family. Hickey assisted in getting the family to the roof of the home, where the children were handed down to an OPP officer while their mother was led to the ground via a ladder, with the assistance of the fire department. Hickey assessed the family as they were transported to the hospital, and they avoided serious injuries.
“I am honoured to recognize this year’s recipients of the Ontario Medal for Paramedic Bravery for their heroism and dedication to saving lives in the face of danger,” said Minister Jones.”These paramedics represent the very best of Ontario and our government is proud to honour them with this prestigious award recognizing their life-saving contributions to the communities they serve.”
While these medal recipients have been selected for their acts of extraordinary selflessness, the government recognizes all paramedics in Ontario have a profound impact on the health and safety of people across the province.
“Paramedics work every day in uncontrolled and changing environments, placing themselves at risk to help others,” said Michael Sanderson, the President of the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs. “The paramedics recognized here today inspire each and every one of us with their courage and selfless actions. Congratulations to all recipients on this very well deserved award.”
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Truly real heros. They deserve better than a useless very expensive politician giving out the awards.
Thank you and congratulations!