This year marks the 5th anniversary of the Saint-Lazare Medical Response Unit. The local pre-hospital service began providing emergency medical first response on December 6, 2003.
In recognition of this anniversary, we present a series of profiles of the volunteers who provide this emergency service.
Name: Courtney McKechnie
Position: First Responder
Years with the service: 2
Medical background: none
Home: Hudson. But, I grew up in Saint-Lazare. The year I started volunteering with the service was, ironically, the year I moved out of Saint Lazare.
Tell us what you were doing before you volunteered with the First Responders:
“I was working for a chemical company, and I still do. My job there is to prepare the Hazardous Materials Handling Sheets. I also work as a ski instruction at Mont Rigaud.
Why is the First Responder service important for you:
“Before I joined the first responders, I was interested getting involved with a fire service. I was drawn to the tools and equipment that they use. Now, as a first responder, I’m still passionate about learning how to work well with that kind of equipment. The tools we use on extrication calls and trauma calls are physically demanding, and I enjoy that challenge.
And, I can say that the first responders have been a life altering experience for me. I’ve decided that I want to pursue paramedic studies in Stony Creek. I just had my physical for that last week. The first responders helped me to get the focus for my life to see what direction I want to go.”
For more information about the Saint Lazare Medical Response Unit, joining the first responders, or the CPR Program (RCR Saint-Lazare CPR) call 450.455.5824, e-mail info@saintlazare911.com, or visit online at www.saintlazare911.com.
