Local paramedics celebrated for humanitarian efforts, exemplary service

Some of the people who come to help when we need help the most have been recognized with awards from a provincial association.

Local paramedic Hilary Sadowski was presented with the Humanitarian Award this past week at the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs symposium in Blue Mountain.

Sadowski was recognized for her work with Global Medic’s Rapid Response team, including in Romania helping with Ukraine relief efforts, as well as for an initiative in the Sault to secure food for the Soup Kitchen.

Six other local paramedics were honoured with 20-year exemplary service medals: David Culina, Jeff Bowen, Dan Langevin, Kevin Mitchell, Cathy Raddatz and Sherri Rathwell.

Learn more in the following news release:

The District of Sault Ste. Marie Paramedic Services is incredibly proud of the accomplishments of a group of local paramedics, who received prestigious awards at the 2024 Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs (OAPC) Symposium this past week in Blue Mountain, Ont.

Congratulations to Primary Care Paramedic Hilary Sadowski, who was recognized with the OAPC Humanitarian Award, which recognizes an act of unselfish donation of time and/or money by paramedic or emergency medical services professionals to relieve the suffering of humanity. Such activities may include disaster relief at home or abroad, or the compassionate and altruistic support provided to refugees. It is not an annual award it is presented only on merit.

Hilary has worked as a primary care paramedic in Sault Ste. Marie since 2009 and is an active member of the service’s peer support team. In 2018, she joined Global Medic’s Rapid Response team, where she was introduced to global humanitarian work.

After spending time in Romania helping with Ukraine relief efforts, Hilary organized a massive initiative to secure food for the Soup Kitchen locally and coordinated the involvement of many paramedics and other Social Services staff.

Sault Ste. Marie Paramedic Services also extend congratulations to the following paramedics on their accomplishments and contributions to the Sault Ste. Marie community:

• David Culina – 20-year Exemplary Service Medal 2024
• Jeff Bowen – 20-year Exemplary Service Medal 2024
• Dan Langevin – 20-year Exemplary Service Medal 2024
• Kevin Mitchell – 20-year Exemplary Service Medal 2023
• Cathy Raddatz – 20-year Exemplary Service Medal 2023
• Sherri Rathwell – 20-year Exemplary Service Medal 2023

The Exemplary Service Medal is awarded to eligible members of the pre-hospital emergency service who have served for at least 20 years in a meritorious manner, recognizing those who have performed their duties with the highest standards of good conduct, industry, and efficiency. To qualify, at least 10 of these years of service must have been street level, involving potential risk to the individual.

These awards reflect the dedication and commitment of Sault Ste. Marie’s paramedics, who go above and beyond in their service to the community. Their unwavering professionalism and selflessness not only highlight the high standards upheld by local paramedic services, but also inspire others in the field of emergency medical care.

The Sault Ste. Marie Paramedic Service is proud to have such exceptional individuals serving our community and extend sincere congratulations to the award recipients.