My life was saved by the paramedics and EMTs here on San Juan Island this past February. While I have already thanked them in private, I would like to thank them publicly now.

This is a group of people, mostly volunteer, who have given of themselves freely. They have given up time with family and friends, barbecues and family outings, to dedicate themselves to training, both here on the island and at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, and applying that training when they are needed at any time, day or night.

Because of their personal sacrifice, they are some of the best paramedics and EMTs in the state of Washington. Having experienced their skill and talent firsthand, I am still alive today thanks to them. I was told by the surgeons at Harborview Medical Center that our paramedics and EMTs are the only reason I was able to survive my life-threatening injuries before arriving at the hospital.

When you consider our fairly remote location, they have to be good to keep any one of us alive. I am forever in their debt for their skill, talent and dedication.

A person’s character is defined by the choices they make. Their choice to do whatever they can to help those in need shows a character that we can all look up to and admire. While I have always been in awe of our public servants for the sacrifices they make to serve and protect us, I am even more so now. Thank you for giving me life when I needed you most.

Lisa Barry
San Juan Island