Who we are, what we do
Stephen Philpott, Advanced Care Paramedic: From a young age, I was always drawn to emergency services. In high school, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in ride-alongs with each of these vital services within my community. Each experience was meaningful in its own way, but it was my time with EMS that left a lasting impression on me—one that stayed with me for days, weeks, and even months afterward.
There was something deeply moving about being there for people during moments of vulnerability, whether in life-threatening emergencies or simply offering support when someone felt alone and had no one else to call but 911. What stood out most was the privilege of helping others in any way they needed, no matter how big or small.
At its core, I’ve always just wanted to help people—and that remains true to this day.
Early in my career, my partner—an experienced paramedic with 15 years on the job—and I were dispatched to assist an elderly woman in distress. When we arrived, she met us at the door in tears, clearly overwhelmed and upset.
After conducting a full assessment and taking her medical history, we learned the root of her distress. She had recently lost her spouse, and since the funeral, her out-of-town family had returned home leaving her alone for the first time in decades. She wasn’t just grieving; she was facing a profound loneliness she had never known.
Recognizing the emotional weight of the situation, we sat with her, simply listening—giving her the space to talk about her husband, her family, and the memories they had shared. It was a small gesture, but it meant everything to her in that moment.
We provided emotional support and connected her with local community resources to ensure she wouldn't have to face future moments like this without help. I’ll never forget the gratitude she expressed as we left.
As we walked away, my partner said something that has stuck with me ever since:
"It doesn’t matter to the patient if you’re the smartest or the most skilled clinician—what matters is that you give them the time and care they deserve when they call you for help."
That moment shaped the way I approach every call. No matter the nature of the emergency, I do my best to be present, compassionate, and patient—because in that moment, someone needs help, and that’s exactly why we’re here.
