Members of Stuart community recognized for National First Responders Day

National First Responders Day is on October 28, and Stuart wants to recognize and thank members students and a member of faculty for their service. Emily Lesinski (Middle School Theology) along with her daughter Margaret '23 and Anna Landis '23 all completed EMT school and received national certification over the summer. Lauren Gracias '22 and Sanya Khullar '22 are also junior firefighters in the local area. 

Mrs. Lesinski shared that becoming an EMT was not something she considered until she saw Anna pursue her passion. Below are interviews with both about the experience. 

Anna Landis

How and when did you get started?
I have always had an intense interest in the medical field ever since I was a young girl. By 15, I was desperate to get a taste of what it would feel like to start a journey in the medical field. I thought EMS would be my first step. Towards the end of 2020, I knew I wanted to become an EMT in my community, I just did not know where to look or how to get started. After I did some individual research, my mom coincidentally approached me and informed me about the Cadet Program at Montgomery EMS(MEMS). After learning more about the fantastic program in Montgomery, I decided to send in my application. I applied in January of 2021. Then, I was invited for an interview and was accepted into the program shortly after. I was unaware of how popular this program was at the Montgomery Public High School. Due to COVID, MEMS had an influx in desire from people wanting to join the program, receiving about 70 applications from high schoolers in the area. Luckily enough, I was able to be a part of the eight selected in the class of 2021 Cadets! This class of Cadets began our training course in late May. After passing my first practical exam, I have been actively riding for MEMS, serving the community my family and friends live in. 

What does it mean to be an EMT?
Becoming an EMT/EMT Cadet at Montgomery EMS involves spending months training and studying, participating in drills and review sessions, community standbys, riding ambulances with other members, supporting nearby firefighters, and of course… MEMS barbeques!! This program is a fantastic way for teenagers to truly get involved in their community where they have great leadership opportunities. Skill Drills and Cadet meetings are often organized and run by our Senior Cadet Leaders. They are great role models to look up to and are always available to answer questions. As the cadets finish the summer training program, they take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians exam. As you await your 18th birthday, you continue to ride, volunteer for food drives and football game standbys, and be an active member of Station 47. Once a cadet turns 18, they can be promoted to the title of EMT. This typically means they can respond from home, be the first responder on scene, and more. Overall, this program is the perfect way for teenagers to volunteer and get involved in their community. 

What have you learned about yourself through the process?
Through joining the MEMS Cadet program and taking the summer-long course, I have learned how sure I am that I still want to pursue a career in medicine when I am older. I have never had a doubt in my mind about this choice, so joining this program just solidified the fact. I also learned how lucky I am to live in a community with so many willing and able volunteers. Montgomery is blessed enough to have high schoolers with such interest in this program. Lastly, I have learned I have an immense amount of love for this community and opportunity. I often find myself checking to see if there is an open shift I can grab or a standby I can attend for Montgomery. Whether I am just spending time at the station with other 47 members or actually riding, MEMS has a constant positive influence on me that I wish to hold on to as I grow up. 

What is your favorite part of being an EMT?
I am unsure if I could pinpoint only one favorite part of being an EMT. To begin, I love getting to know my fellow crew members while actively growing my knowledge and skill sets. Bonding with my cadet class has definitely been the highlight of my summer. As for actually riding, there is an unexplainable rush you feel when a call comes in and the tones go over the radios and pagers. Your instincts are kicked into high gear as you rush to the ambulance to get on the road. This feeling is second only to the one you feel when the call is over and you return to the station with your crew. The sense of pride I experience after helping just one person in my community is a feeling I wish never to give up. I am so lucky to be a part of such a close-knit community like MEMS at such a young age. 

Emily Lesinski

I (along with Margaret) are members of the Middlesex  Boro Rescue Squad. Joining the rescue squad was not something I had ever considered until I was inspired by Anna Landis to do so. She was in the process of joining the Princeton First Aid Squad when our town’s squad put out a call looking for volunteers.
 
We live across the street from our rescue squad and they were looking for new members. Our squad makes a point of letting everyone know that the members of the squad are regular people from town who give their time to help citizens in town in their time of need.

Margaret and I began EMT school in May and graduated in mid-August. It was an extremely challenging and rewarding experience. I took the EMT National Registry exam and am now a certified EMT in all 50 states.

Volunteering on the rescue squad has been a truly powerful experience. We often show up to people’s homes on their worst day. I am reminded on every callI go on that each person is a child of God. I strive to bring calm, compassionate care to every patient I meet.

I encourage people to consider volunteering with their local rescue squad or fire department. It’s a wonderful way to give back to your community and help your neighbors.