Next up for the summer will be an incredible overnight camp for teens who are interested in a career in Emergency Medical Services.  Camp EMS will allow teens the opportunity to learn first-hand what it takes to be a first responder.  Hands-on demonstrations, talks and presentations by medical experts, wellness activities, and earning their CPR card will keep campers busy.  Of course there will be lots of time for fun and team-building too.  Camp EMS will be held on the campus of Allegheny College in Meadville, PA from July 15-20, allowing youth the chance to experience a slice of college life.  The medical industry is projected to be the largest in our nation by 2018 and Camp EMS will showcase a great entry point into the healthcare field.

This innovative program is made possible through the support of the Erie Community Foundation and EMMCO West.

 

 

Mark Niedig, Executive Director of the Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation, is used to spending his days zig-zagging the country Spreading the Wave about the incredible possibilities offered by the late John Kanzius' revolutionary approach to cancer treatment.  Unfortunately, on March 8, Mark had one more interview than his body was able to handle.

 

After spending several days traveling, Mark stopped off at the studios of Lilly Broadcasting for a live TV interview.  As the interview progressed, it became clear to those at the station and attentive viewers that Mark was not himself.  As soon as the interview was over news anchor Lisa Adams called 911.  

 

EmergyCare paramedic Jack Christie was at the State Street studio within minutes.  Christie states, "We did a full assessment and it was clear that he had a classic presentation of diabetic hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).  The folks at the TV station did the right thing.  They suspected he was having a problem with low blood sugar so they called 911, had him drink a soda and made him comfortable until we arrived."   

 

After Christie administered an oral glucose gel, Mark's blood sugar was still dangerously low so an I.V. was started to administer glucose directly to the blood stream.  As the glucose took affect, Mark became more alert and aware of his surroundings.  He was also able to let responders know he is a diabetic.

 

In recalling the incident, Mark said, "I've been a diabetic for 37 years and this is only the second time this has happened.  But I'm the first to admit that I get totally wrapped up in my work for the Foundation and overcommitt myself.  Too often eating a snack or meal gets bumped from my schedule because I want to share the inspiring message of John Kanzius' vision for dignified cancer treatment.  This incident was a real wake-up call.  To keep doing the work I'm so passionate about, I need to pay closer attention to my own health.  I'm so grateful for the quick thinking of the Lilly Broadcasting team and the expert care provided by EmergyCare.  Together they saved my life."

 

Paramedic Jack Christie summed it up by saying, "This emergency scenario is a great reminder of why it is so important to call for emergency medical help.  We come right to you where you are having the problem and can deliver life-saving care on the spot."