Receiving a prestigious award while in the company of his long-time colleagues will likely form a core memory for Stephen Lucas in the years to come.
Lucas, the deputy chief of Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Service and an advanced care paramedic, and three of his fellow paramedics were among 73 Ontario paramedics who received the Governor General of Canada’s Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal.
Created in 1994 by late governor general Romeo LeBlanc, the medal recognizes professionals in the provision of pre-hospital emergency medical services to the public who have performed their duties in an exemplary manner, characterized by good conduct, industry, and efficiency.
To receive the award, recipients must have completed 20 years of exemplary service, including at least 10 years in the performance of duties involving potential risk. A bar with a stylized maple leaf may be awarded for each additional 10-year period of service with emergency medical services.
Michael Tibollo, Ontario’s associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, presented the award to paramedics during a ceremony last Wednesday (November 20) at Queen’s Park in Toronto.
Along with Lucas, advanced care paramedic Charles Phillips, primary care paramedic Kevin Sheahan, and advanced care and community paramedic Chris Barrow were award recipients from the Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Service, with each receiving a second bar for 30 years of service.
“It was a proud moment to receive this honour, especially alongside Kevin, Chuck, and Chris,” Lucas told kawarthaNOW. “I have had the privilege of working with these fellas for years and have witnessed first-hand their exceptional dedication to supporting patients, families, and the community.”
“As a team, we have always valued the privilege of being part of such a rewarding profession, and this recognition is a testament to the collective impact we strive to make,” the deputy chief stated.
Prior to the ceremony, Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Services’ chief Sara Johnston shared the news during the November meeting of Kawartha Lakes council. Johnston recognized the paramedics’ achievement and thanked them for their contributions to the profession, service, and the community for more than three decades.
“With more than 11,000 paramedics practising in the province of Ontario, these four are part of an elite group to receive this honour and on behalf of our service, the city and the community, I want to thank them for their dedication over three decades of exemplary service,” Johnston told council.
