Assistance invaluable

I wish to acknowledge the valuable assistance received during a very tough and difficult situation Oct. 15.

My partner, Nicole, and I were the first Paramedics and emergency service to arrive at the horrific minivan and tractor-trailer crash that occurred at Charleston and Mississauga Roads in the Town of Caledon.

Nicole and I immediately took command of the entire scene, as we are taught to do in all our disaster rehearsals. This required the involvement and co-ordination of two air ambulance helicopters and six Peel Region land ambulances.

During this very emotional and challenging time, I am aware of at least two bystanders who assisted us throughout.

Under my direction, they demonstrated care and compassion to their fellow humans during this time of need. Unfortunately, in the haste of the situation I did not get their

names, but wish to extend my appreciation to them in person for their efforts and involvement, should they wish to come forward.

Also, emergency room staff at Headwaters Health Care Centre in Orangeville provided phenomenal care to those injured during the crash. I believe that some ER staff responded from their homes, during their time off, when this situation called for their needed skills and experience.

Lastly, the diligent acts of the OPP and Caledon Fire & Emergency Services were valuable to us in the care and control of this tragic, heart-breaking scene.

Words will never truly express my gratitude and pride for the remarkable paramedics and allied emergency services that I worked with during that call.

Carol Murray Advanced Care Paramedic