Off Duty Paramedic Saves Life

Midhurst/ July 27, 2009 – An Orillia man is alive today thanks to the efforts of an off duty County of Simcoe Paramedic.

County of Simcoe Paramedic Colin Gilchrist was on his way to work last Friday when he came across a cyclist in apparent distress. Gilchrist, a 2 year veteran with County of Simcoe Paramedic Services, approached the man and enquired if he was in need of assistance. The man indicated that he was in distress and Gilchrist called 911.
The 54 year old man proceeded to collapse with all vital signs absent. Gilchrist administered CPR until Paramedics arrived.

Paramedics utilized a defibrillator to shock the man’s heart. The patient regained a heartbeat on scene, but was again treated with the defibrillator enroute to hospital. He was transported to Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital where he regained consciousness.

“We are continually grateful to all emergency services personnel including our Paramedics for the high quality services that they provide on a daily basis to residents and visitors in Simcoe County,” stated Warden Tony Guergis. “Today, Paramedic Gilchrist demonstrated a willingness to get involved while off duty, an attribute that we are very proud to find in all our staff. His actions saved a life. Well done.”

“Paramedic Colin Gilchrist, responding Paramedics and the entire medical team formed the chain of survival that led to this positive outcome”, said Director and Chief of Paramedic Services Andrew Robert. “Congratulations to everyone.”
The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.