Congratulations to EMAS Paramedic Julia King, presented this morning with a Long Service Medal in recognition of her 20 years service.
Julia joined the Ambulance Service in July 1996 as a member of our Patient Transport Service. By November that year she had progressed to Ambulance Technician and in March 2000 qualified as a Paramedic.
While presenting the award, Leicestershire and Rutland General Manager and Paramedic Mark Gregory said: "I personally extend my thanks to Julia for her influence during my early career. Julia was my crew mate for some time whilst based at Coalville Ambulance Station.
"I know Julia to be a happy, conscientious and caring person. She has a contagious smile and is a valued member of the team. She is also someone who I would happily welcome in to care for any member of my family."
The medal presentation took place at the EMAS Leicestershire and Rutland Staff Family Fun Day, which took place on the site of our Narborough Ambulance Station.
After the formal part of the ceremony Julia said: "The most that I've got out of this job doesn’t relate to the big car crashes or significant calls that we attend. It’s the social care side that has meant a lot to me, making a difference with patients who have been struggling, spending a bit of time with someone who is lonely, and helping someone who needed treatment and guidance because of an alcohol problem.
"The people make the job. If it wasn’t for the great community spirit and camaraderie then I don't think anyone could continue with the sort of work we do. You need that support after a horrible job. Being able to talk helps. I am very lucky to have a supportive family and a husband who is a paramedic and understands. He knows when to sit and listen and that means a lot."
The Family Fun Day event was planned and hosted by the Leicestershire and Rutland Senior Management Team and offered colleagues and their loved ones free barbecued food, fete games for the children including a lucky dip, tin can alley, name the teddy, a bouncy castle, and face painting. They even had the opportunity to soak General Manager Mark Gregory while he was locked in the stocks!
Colleagues from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service attended with a fire engine, and representatives from Rainbows, LOROS, Loughborough’s John Storer House, and Leicestershire Search and Rescue had displays at the event too.
Our thanks go to the organisations that sponsored the event by providing free meat, bread and gas for the barbecue – it was delicious!
