Firefighters lead the way to improve care at RH

When you imagine a medical emergency, your local firefighter may not be top of mind. But often that’s who is often first to arrive on-scene in the case of an emergency.

“Although we are highly trained for fire situations, the majority of our calls are medical emergencies,” says Jen McElgunn, a Richmond Firefighters’ Association member since 2008. “We deal with many vehicle accidents, cardiac arrests, pedestrians struck…some members have even delivered babies at calls.”

In March, the Richmond Firefighters’ Association took a leadership role by donating $250,000 to help improve care at Richmond Hospital. Care and concern for patients serve as powerful inspiration.

Jen McElgunn, a Richmond Firefighters’ Association member since 2008.

“We rely on our training and experience to do our best to help people at their time of need.  We all want the very best care for patients, but we can only do so much in the field. Being able to help fund improvements to patient care at Richmond Hospital really completes the circle for us,” says McElgunn.

The Richmond Firefighters’ Association represents all of Richmond’s 215 firefighting, training, investigation, fire prevention, public education and mechanical staff who work around-the-clock to keep the citizens of Richmond safe. Over the next five years, each member will personally contribute through payroll deductions towards the $250,000 donation.

“We are first to arrive at many of the emergencies Richmond residents will have. We spend a lot of time with patients on the scene. Every time a patient goes to Richmond Hospital’s Emergency Department, I know they are being greeted by an amazing team, ready to help,” McMcElgunn says.

Dedicating their own lives to helping others can also result in medical emergencies for members as they put themselves in harm’s way as part of a rescue operation. “There are often times our own members will have to go to the hospital after a call and it’s reassuring to know you will be well taken care of upon arrival.”

“Working as a firefighter, you’re part of a team whose goal is to help save lives and property and then go home safe to your family. Our donation helps ensure great local health care will be there for all of us in the future, whenever anyone may need it.”