National EMS Week in Akwesasne

Kharlene Bineh Garrow Title/Position: Ambulance Driver How long have you been an EMT & how long have you worked with AMA? I am currently working towards final exams to become an EMT. I've been working as an ambulance driver with AMA for almost two months now. What inspired you to become an EMT? Due to the current pandemic, there is a major shortage of EMT's. With the encouragement and support of family and friends, I decided to try it out. What is an aspect about your job that you enjoy the most? Knowing that I'm in a position to make a positive contribution to my community. I like seeing familiar community members while I'm driving around. What advice would you give a community member who wants to become an EMT? From what I've seen and experienced, this field requires a lot of hard work and sacrifice, but is overall rewarding. Don't be afraid to give it a try!

Ryan Jacobs Title/Position: EMT/A-EMT How long have you been an EMT & how long have you worked with AMA? 8 years What inspired you to become an EMT? I was offered a driving position and was encouraged to receive my EMT card to further my position, which I enjoyed and looked further into advancing my career. What is an aspect about your job that you enjoy the most? The thinking and critical decision making. Also helping people to the best of my abilities. What advice would you give a community member who wants to become an EMT? Never stop learning, always read and stay ahead of the field as it's always changing.

Aidan Lazore Title/Position: Emergency Medical Technician How long have you been an EMT & how long have you worked with AMA? I've been an EMT for 2ish years, and I have worked with the AMA about the same amount of time. What inspired you to become an EMT? I was encouraged by another employee of AMA to give it a shot and I really enjoyed It. What is an aspect about your job that you enjoy the most? I really enjoy helping those in need. What advice would you give a community member who wants to become an EMT? I would encourage anyone looking to become an EMT to take things seriously and study as much as possible - it's a very rewarding career if you do things the right way.

Daryl Diabo Title/Position: Paramedic Supervisor How long have you been an EMT & how long have you worked with AMA? I first received my EMT certification in May 1981 with the Akwesasne Mohawk Ambulance. I worked 5 years (1985 -1990) and took a break to return to school. I returned in 1993 as a casual and have been full-time for 23 years. What inspired you to become an EMT? I was a Medical Specialist in the military, and became an EMT while serving, which I continued through to civilian life. What is an aspect about your job that you enjoy the most? Continuing my education, new skills and knowledge to help the people of our community. What advice would you give a community member who wants to become an EMT? Do ride and job shadowing; this job is not for everyone as you miss a lot of home life due to shift work.

Dennis Bero Sr. Title/Position: A/Supervisor Critical Care EMT How long have you been an EMT & how long have you worked with AMA? I got my Basic EMT in January of 2016 and obtained my Critical Care EMT in May of 2018. I have been with AMA since February 2016. What inspired you to become an EMT? My father, Dwight Bero Sr. Although not an EMT he would always stop and help out strangers in need. It can be a person stranded on side of road having vehicle troubles or a family experiencing the worst day in their lives, you can see him helping out one way or another. Growing up I always saw how he can jump into action and help those in need and I always told myself, when I grow up that I want to help people like how he would always do. What is an aspect about your job that you enjoy the most? I enjoy helping out those in need and helping them get through it. Knowing that I can make a difference in someone's life. What advice would you give a community member who wants to become an EMT? I would say give it a try. You never know unless you give it a try. It's not for everyone but you could be that special person to take it on. And if you do give it a try, never stop learning. The medical field changes a lot so there is always more to learn.

Sherril Lazare Title/Position: Emergency Medical Technician What's your favorite part of being an EMT/Paramedic/etc.? The best part of being an EMT is when I am approached by a community member and they give me a heartfelt "thank you" or even a hug, for helping out their family. It is a wonderful feeling knowing I am appreciated. How long have you been an EMT/Paramedic? 10 years. What's the best thing about Akwesasne? The best thing about Akwesasne are our children. They are always so curious about what we do. All a child really needs is love and support, and when they are given that, they grow up to be strong-minded individuals. Our kids are the future of Akwesasne! What advice would you give to someone who would like to become an EMT or Paramedic? My greatest strength is being a strong Mohawk woman with a caring heart. Not everyone is cut out to be a first responder and it takes a certain individual to do what we do. I am grateful I can help others in their time of need.