MDH Recognized First Responders at EMS Week Event

MACOMB, Ill. – McDonough District Hospital concluded EMS Week with an inaugural event to recognize EMS staff and first responders. The event was held Saturday afternoon (May 21) at the Macomb Airport.

In all, 92 members of McDonough County rescue, police, and fire departments attended. Food was provided by Damon Wright of Backdraft BBQ in Bushnell.

“The first-ever EMS appreciation event was a huge success, showing the support that everyone in McDonough County has for one another. We cannot thank McDonough District Hospital enough for providing the means to hold this event,” said Kory Nichols, EMT-P, LI, MDH Emergency Medical Services System Coordinator. “We look forward to another great event next year to show our support for all of the hard-working emergency service members in McDonough County.”

During the program, MDH and Nichols recognized County first responders - both past and present - for their work and service, including:

- Kent Oster (recently deceased), a member of the Industry Fire and Rescue for 41 years and served as Chief for 30 years.

- KC Robbins (Lifeguard Ambulance) for receiving the National Star of Life Award for her work locally and with Lifeguard Ambulance.

- Eric Arnold (Good Hope Fire and Rescue) for his dedication and service. In addition, all the services that answered the call and assisted during the cardiac arrest at a fire call. According to Nichols, “MDH and the entire county are thankful that all the service departments from Macomb to Peoria worked together to provide the best care possible.”

- Dr. George Roodhouse for his years of service as the EMS Coordinator for McDonough County. “Without his dedication to EMS we would not be where we are today to be able to provide the care we offer to the community,” said Nichols.

“It was great having the opportunity to salute our very dedicated EMS system, both staff and volunteers throughout the county, as well as recognize all first responders. We are very fortunate for their dedication to their communities and our region,” said MDH Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer Wanda Foster, RN, MSN, FACHE.