My Uncle Steve has recently had three run-ins with EMS. Nothing life threatening (thank God), but with his current health condition of liver failure, he's terribly weak. Two weeks ago, he sat on the edge of the bed, lost his balance and slipped to the floor. My aunt was unable to lift him to get him back in bed, so they called 911. Five minutes later and without the unnecessary spectacle of lights and sirens, the ambulance arrived. The paramedics lifted Steve back to a sitting position, swung his legs into bed and bid my aunt and uncle a good day. When my aunt asked what she owed them, the ambulance driver simply said, "Citizen assistance, ma'am. No charge for something like this."
A week later, Steve again had an episode of being unable to complete a short walk. With another 50 yards to go to the car, his body simply gave out. He sank a knee to the ground, laid down flat and called 911. The ambulance crew arrived, helped Steve to a gurney and lifted him into the ambulance. A mile later, they were home and brought him into the house and put him to bed. Again, "No charge, ma'am...this is a citizen assistance call."
Folks, this is the sort of thing which renews my faith in humanity. Emergency personnel basically volunteering their time to help out folks who, without their assistance, would be sunk.
I'd like to say a personal thanks to the Lake St. Louis Ambulance and Fire guys for helping out my uncle.
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