OTTAWA—Jennifer Hamilton, Manitoulin-Sudbury DSB paramedic, rode her bike 525km from Toronto to Ottawa along with 100 other paramedics from across Ontario, personally raising $1,025 as the top fundraiser for the Canadian Paramedic Memorial Foundation.
The 2016 edition of the Paramedic Ride took place from September 16 to 19 in Ontario, Quebec and Alberta, with a similar event being held in New Brunswick in late May. The goal of the ride is to raise funds for the Canadian Paramedic Memorial Foundation which is constructing a monument in the Ottawa to commemorate those Paramedics who have lost their lives in the line-of-duty.
According to the Paramedic Ride website, “this important monument will be a place where family, friends and colleagues can remember their loved ones and honour the dedication and sacrifice of all Canadian Paramedics who have lost their lives”.
A slideshow was displayed at the Manitoulin-Sudbury DSB Board meeting held September 22. Michael MacIsaac, Chief of Paramedic Services, noted that he is extremely proud of the work his Paramedics do, not only at work but off the job as well and he singled out Paramedic Hamilton as a shining example.
“What Jennifer did is another case of one of our Paramedics doing a little extra to help out people they don’t even know,” he said.
Chief MacIsaac also relayed a message from an Ottawa Paramedic Service Superintendent who witnessed Paramedic Hamilton’s determination and perseverance through severe weather and difficult terrain. Ms. Hamilton’s Facebook post from the day in question relayed exactly how tough it was on her to continue: “Running out of energy… muscles are not cooperating; but pushing on. I just think of the reason we are all here…for the 38 men and women’s names we read and ring the bell for…who we pay tribute to each day of this ride…this is all for you.”
Les Gamble, Manitoulin-Sudbury DSB board chair, was impressed with the actions of Paramedic Hamilton offering the thanks of the Board for what she accomplished.
Anyone wishing to learn more or to donate to the Paramedic Ride can find out more at www.paramedicride.ca.
