Media Releases

Amherst mayor proclaims Sept. 28, 2020, as Medic Monday

The Emergency Health Services flag will fly over the Town of Amherst on Monday, Sept. 28, 2020, in recognition of the life-saving service provided by paramedics who serve this community, region and province.

“I have seen the great work done by paramedics,” Mayor David Kogon, a retired physician, said on Sept. 24, 2020, as he signed a proclamation on behalf of Amherst town council that declared Sept. 28, 2020, as Medic Monday in the Town of Amherst.

“These first responders are among our first line of defence when emergencies strike. They are well trained and are ready to respond at a moment’s notice 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year.

“It is important that we recognize the life-saving efforts of these men and women, so I urge the citizens of Amherst to thank our EHS paramedics for their service.”

Derek J. Leblanc, regional manager, northeastern region, EHS operations, echoed those comments.

“Medic Monday is an opportunity for all of us to express our gratitude for the dedication of the women and men who provide professional and compassionate emergency medical care on a daily basis, as well as for their families who make sacrifices while their loved ones serve the residents and visitors of our province,” he said.

“Nova Scotia paramedics come from all walks of life, and work extremely hard each and every day – especially in these challenging times – to deliver quality health care.”

The paramedic service not only includes front-line paramedics, but emergency medical dispatchers and paramedics who fulfill support, education and development roles within the organization.

The proclamation notes the quality emergency care provided by EHS paramedics and dispatchers, who undergo thousands of hours of specialized training and continuing education, is a vital public service that dramatically improves the survival and recovery rates of those who experience sudden illness or injury.

It also calls on residents to “recognize the value and the accomplishments of paramedics” by participating in Medic Monday.