On a night described as “deeply meaningful to everyone who wears a uniform or answers the call,” Northumberland County recently recognized 85 first responders for their actions that saved the lives of 14 people.
First responders gathered last Monday (October 27) for the 10th annual “Survivor Night” ceremony. Hosted by Northumberland County, the event is dedicated to honouring the stories of lives restored following cardiac arrest and the teamwork behind those successes.
This year, 85 first responders were formally recognized for their life-saving efforts in the successful resuscitation of 14 people who experienced out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in 2024.
The event was also an opportunity to reconnect some of the survivors and their families with first responders who played critical roles during their emergencies.
“This night is deeply meaningful to everyone who wears a uniform or answers the call — ambulance communications officers, paramedics, and firefighters alike,” Northumberland Paramedics Chief Susan Brown told kawarthaNOW.
“It reminds us why we train, why we serve, and why we stand shoulder-to-shoulder when seconds matter most. Survivor Night is not only about the lives that were saved, but about the bond that forms between all first responders — a shared commitment to protect our communities and give people a second chance at life.”
One survivor was Wilfred Vienot, who suddenly collapsed in his home one day last year after suffering a cardiac arrest.
According to a media release, bystanders quickly recognized the emergency, called 9-1-1, and began CPR on Vienot.
“Neighbours, friends, ambulance communications officers, firefighters, and paramedics worked together seamlessly,” the release stated, noting the collaboration “ultimately saved his life.”
Vienot attended Survivor Night and joined officials on stage to present his neighbours and first responders with certificates of recognition.
“Every life saved is a powerful reminder of the dedication and skill of our first responders, as well as the courage and quick action of community members,” Brown said.
“Survivor Night is a celebration of these extraordinary moments and the hope they bring. It also underscores the importance of the chain of survival — from recognizing cardiac arrest and calling 9-1-1, to preforming CPR and using a community automated external defibrillator, to the involvement of first responders with their training and expertise. Each link in that chain is vital to saving lives.”
Northumberland County Warden Brian Ostrander said the evening serves to recognize “that behind every life saved is a network of people who acted with courage and care when it mattered most.
“Every story shared tonight reminds us that readiness and resilience start long before an emergency happens, in the partnerships, the training, and the trust we build together,” the warden added.
