Post on 12-Jun-2020
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September 2014
Get Ready to Wear the Pink!
September 2014
Get Ready to Wear the Pink!
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Contents September 2014
Cover Story
+ Features
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GET READY TO WEAR THE PINK!
ATCEMS gears up to support National Breast Cancer
Awareness during the month of October with
special pink merchandise you can wear.
________________________________________
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ACTS OF KINDNESS
An ATCEMS Commander goes above and beyond the
call of duty to help a patient who was worried about
his bicycle.
________________________________________
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AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY EMS: AN EVOLUTION
Believe it or not, before Austin EMS was created the
pre-hospital needs of Austin’s citizens were served
by several funeral homes and private services.
________________________________________
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A JOURNEY OF LETTING GO…MOVING ON…AND
GIVING BACK!
Captain Mark Hawkins says that his participation, in-
volvement and experiences with the EMS Memorial
Bike Ride over the years were all very personal for him.
_______________________________________
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ANGEL FLIGHT: WHERE HOPE SOARS, LIVES CHANGE
AND DREAMS TAKE HOLD
Angel Flight’s mission is to coordinate with volunteers
across our South Central Region to facilitate transport
of the critically ill pediatric patients and their families.
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In Every Issue
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MAKING A DIFFERENCE
A seven year old cardiac arrest survivor meets the
ATCEMS Captains, Randy Chhabra and Mike
McDaniel, who saved her life.
_______________________________________
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PIO INTERN MELISSA MENASHE: A NEW
FACE...CHAPTER...CHALLENGE
Our inaugural intern Melissa Menashe says she is
honored and excited for the opportunity to work with
our PIO team.
_________________________________________
Division News
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AWARNESS IS THE KEY TO DISCOVERY
Nearly 40,000 women and 400 men die every year of
breast cancer. One in eight women will be diagnosed
with breast cancer in their lifetime.
_______________________________________
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HEALTHY CONNECTIONS
Women’s health, PE classes, Delightful Dishes, What’s in
Season.
________________________________________
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YOUR PHOTOS
Pictures of ATCEMS employees in action.
________________________________________
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REWARDS AND RECOGNITION
ATCEMS employees receive kudos, special thanks, and
congratulations for a job well done.
________________________________________
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CUSTOMER SERVICE SURVEY
Feedback and results from Customer Service Callback
Program.
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Message
from
the Chief
Changing the lives of the people we serve requires us to connect with our community and get plugged
-in with community activities and events. We do a lot in our community to promote safety and good
health. It starts by setting a good example. As role models, our community looks toward us for
examples of good health, safety, integrity, and compassion. Getting involved in community activities
and showing everyone how much we care is key. Here’s another opportunity to show how much we
care.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and we are showing our support with pink gloves, pink
badges for those of you who ordered them, and pink lanyards & ID clips for non-unformed employees.
This is a terrific time and opportunity to do some volunteer work, too.
In this issue of Pulse we are proud to showcase several employees that exemplify integrity, motivation
and giving back to the community by volunteering to charitable activities outside of their normal work
duties. Craig Fairbrother brings hope to children in need and changes lives by providing flights to
treatment facility's for critically ill children. Mark Hawkins has spent 8 dedicated years on a journey of
letting go...moving on...and giving back through multiple activity's with National EMS Memorial Bike
Ride.
Both of these medics do outstanding work within our community. I know that many more of you also
participate in volunteer work throughout our community. I hope that you take a moment to send us
an email about your passion so we can share it with others. Stories about your community action,
dedication, and enthusiasm serve to inspire all of us to find our passions and take action. I am so
proud to a part of this department because of the great people in it. It goes to show the type of caring
people that we have within our department.
Leadership is a group effort built upon our ability to dream together, decide together, and act togeth-
er.” These are my words when I describe what “We Lead” is all about. I believe in the culture they
represent and in our journey to fulfill them.
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The Wellness Center is conducting 2 fitness classes open to all EMS and Fire employees. Each class is an hour long of functional or strength training. Feel free to attend as many classes per week that your schedule will allow.
Functional Training/Conditioning
Monday and Wednesday @ 1000
Functional Training/Conditioning is a higher intensity workout that includes a variety of func-
tional exercises to increase both strength and endurance. We will teach proper form and tech-nique on all major lifts as well as body weight exercises.
Strength Training
Tuesday and Thursday @ 1000
Strength Training will focus on training and development through safe lifting and proper body
mechanics.
No sign up or appointment needed to attend.
Public Safety Wellness Center
517 S. Pleasant Valley Road
512-974-0203
NEW Fitness Classes at the Public Safety
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Support the fighters...
Admire the survivors…
Honor the fallen...
Raise the awareness...
Wear the pink.
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Temporary Supply of PINK GLOVES
are located in the supply closets at:
Brackenridge
M01 M05
M19 M29
Pink powder - coated department
badge (for those who pre-ordered)
ATCEMS Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month
with Wearable Pink Merchandise
Lanyards and ID clips
Limited supply for non- uniformed staff
Wear the pink!
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Acts of Kindness “No act of kindness, no matter how small, Is ever wasted.”
-Aesop
To Whom it May Concern:
On May 8th at 8:30 pm, I was involved in a one-person bicycle wreck. I wasn’t
going to call EMS but I couldn’t get off the ground. There were seven people
around and two of them were nurses. One of them snuck off to call EMS and sure
enough, they showed up. After the medics examined me and asked a bunch of
questions, they got me up and put me on a stretcher and rolled me into the
ambulance.
I started complaining about leaving my bicycle on the road or chained to a pole—-it
just wasn’t going to happen. Then, a man stuck his head into ambulance and said
“if you will give me your address and keys, I’ll take your bike home for you”. That
floored me! I found out later the man was a supervisor and that was part of his
job.
I told him “you don’t know me from nothing” but he said again that this was his
favorite part of his job. I gave him my keys and my address and he removed the
bike from the ambulance and took it to my house. He showed up at the hospital
with my keys and a picture to prove he took my bike home.
I want this man found and commended for his actions! Kudos, kudos, kudos for
this man! He was absolutely GREAT! (We found him, it was Commander Temple
Thomas!)
Sincerely,
Daniel Ray Linman
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Austin-Travis County
EMS…..an Evolution
Before Austin EMS was created the pre-hospital
needs of Austin’s citizens were served by several
funeral homes and private services. Their first rule
of care was the “swoop and scoop” method.
The competition amongst the various services
created dangerous situations, questionable ethical
acts and was considered a conflict of interest.
These acts motivated the citizens and the city
government for change.
Change came slowly at first. In 1957, the city
council formed a “zone” system that used the
police department dispatchers to send the ambu-
lance closest to a location to the call.
Brackenridge Hospital was owned by the City of
Austin and in 1967 the city contracted to Austin
Ambulance Services for all emergency and
non-emergency transports.
When the city established a franchise agreement
with Austin Ambulance Service the public’s aware-
ness of pre-hospital care increased, and the
expectations for a higher quality of care and
service ensued.
1975 The City EMS department began to provide
services along with Austin Ambulance.
During this time EMS units were strategically
placed in apartment complexes throughout the
city.
1976 The city took full control and responsibil-
ity for Emergency Services in the City of Austin.
On January first Austin EMS completed the birth
process and arrived in this world as a non-civil
service municipal department with 32 employees
operating BLS ambulances. In the early years of
AEMS the field medics had the pleasure of wearing
orange jumpsuits as their uniforms. Thankfully we
no longer have such uniforms, big sigh of relief!!
1977 An inter-local agreement with Travis
County to provide Emergency Medical coverage in
the county was signed. Throughout the years the
City of Austin and Travis County continued to
grow. We have encountered many evolutionary
changes through the years. Organization structure
in the early years ranged from a system that had
a paramedic and EMT provider on an ambulance
to a tiered system and back again. The tiered
system comprised of a series of BLS units with
two basic EMT’s with fewer ALS units comprised of
2 paramedics both types of units could be backed
up with a commander who was ALS capable, thus
making this a 3 tiered system.
By Clemente Leal, EMTP
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1984 STAR Flight (Shock Trauma Air Rescue) was
established. The helicopter covers the city and
surrounding counties providing rapid treatment and
transportation over an 85 mile radius.
1994 Plans to make all of the responding ambu-
lances ALS units were made. This was done in order
to meet the new national ALS compliance time’s
standards. This plan was called the “Full Service
System Plan”. In 1995 this plan was put into action
and the process began and we became known as
Austin-Travis County EMS.
2009 Represented a significant change. Dr. Ed
Racht the Medical Director for the past 14 years left
to pursue other avenues. His replacement was none
other than Dr. Paul Hinchey. Dr. Hinchey was the
Associate Medical Director for Wake County, North
Carolina. His background includes working as a
paramedic in New York and teaching.
2012 The system made significant changes in
how each ambulance is staffed. We moved from an
all paramedic system to staffing ambulances with
one paramedic and a basic EMT.
2013 Austin Travis County EMS uniformed person-
nel became the first EMS system to adopt the Civil
service rules and by-laws.
2014 Today the department has grown to meet
the needs of the community with 419 sworn
uniformed personnel and 67 civilian staff members,
37 full time ambulances, 4 demand units, 7 District
Commanders and an EMS communication section.
Austin/Travis County EMS has seen its fair share
of adversity and change in the past 38 years, but it
has made our EMS system stronger. Due to the ded-
ication of all employees the medical community and
citizens of Austin/Travis County this Ems system will
continue to thrive and continue being leaders in pre-
hospital care.
By Clemente Leal, EMTP
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Thanks to the generosity of the Austin Junior Forum the ATCEMS Teddy Bear Program has
been revived! Soon all ambulances and Command vehicles will carry a small supply (4-5 per
vehicle) of teddy bears. The bears provide children an immediate sense of comfort and calm in
frightening situations and medics are free to distribute the bears at their discretion.
The Junior Forum supplies Teddy Bears & Dalmatians for local public safety agencies to give to
children involved in traumatic events. These stuffed animals give children something tangible
to hold during times of crisis.
In recent years, more than 5,000 children have been involved in crisis situations, and the
numbers continue to rise with the growth of our city. Austin's public safety agencies including
Austin Police Department, Austin Fire Department, Travis County Sheriff's Office, and Austin-
Travis County EMS have relied on these stuffed animals for more than 20 years.
If you shop Randall's Grocery Stores and have a Randall's Remarkable Card, you can link your
card to AJF's Teddy Bear Program and then every time you shop, Randall's will donate a
percentage of your purchase amount to AJF’s Teddy Bear Program. Simply visit the customer
service counter at your local Randall's store and ask for a Good Neighbor Program form.
On that form, indicate that you would like to link your card to Charity #2061, which is the
Teddy Bear Program's Good Neighbor account, and give the form back to the customer service
representative.
ATCEMS Rejoins Austin Junior Forum’s
Teddy Bear Program
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Add pictures of teddy bear delivery on Friday here.
Expect arrival of these adorable bears from the Austin Junior Forum to be delivered to
your station by your assigned commander. Bears can be restocked by contacting your
district commander.
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Every year the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride
honors EMS personnel by organizing and
implementing a long distance cycling event that
memorializes and celebrates the lives of those
who serve every day. The ride honors those who
have become sick or injured while performing
their duties, and those who have died in the line
of duty. Captain Mark Hawkins has spent eight
energetic years filled with countless hours of
dedicated time, money, sweat and tears helping
to organize the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride.
Each year, hundreds of family members, friends,
coworkers, political leaders and colleagues from
EMS agencies from across the nation gather to
remember the current years chosen honorees.
The National EMS Memorial Bike Ride is not a
single event, but rather a weekend of events
centered around a ceremony known as the
National EMS Memorial Service which has honored
over 600 EMS practitioners since 1992 who have
given their lives in the line of duty.
Mark’s inspiration began in 2006 when a fellow
paramedic who worked for Marble Falls EMS, Eric
Hansen, was tragically killed on the job. Inspira-
tion is about being called to act because you have
a desire to bring unforgettable moments to life
through unrelenting motivation. It emanates
from the core of your being and makes you rise
above the anger and frustration at the senseless
loss of remarkable and admirable people. Mark
has always been dedicated to raising awareness
for the EMS profession and the daily hazards a
paramedic encounters.
How did you get involved with the National
EMS Memorial Bike Ride?
“In 2006, I was dispatched to an MVA that
involved an ambulance from an outlying county.
As I approached the unit I realized I was looking
at a familiar face, a colleague named Eric Hansen,
who was deceased in his ambulance. It was very
difficult to get through the call but I had a job to
do, so I continued looking through the wreckage.
I didn’t find a patient in the back of the ambu-
lance however, I did find the second medic and
realized she was alive but pinned. When you
respond to a call like that there are a lot of layers
and emotions going on. After that day, myself
and a few other coworkers needed something to
help us work through our emotions and the stress
we were feeling. We thought it would be a good
idea to participate in the bike ride and honor Eric.
That was the beginning of an eight year journey.”
“During those eight years I rode for several fallen
colleagues, and other times I just rode. I also
found myself assisting the bike mechanics, this
was an essential skill because we needed to be
self-sufficient on the road. Eventually I became
one of the mechanics for all the riders. I wasn’t
able to ride in 2009 due to an injury so I was a
support person for the team/organization. I pro-
vided support and bike mechanics for close to 100
people that year. The cool thing was being able to
keep everybody riding who wanted to ride. To me
that was a great sense of accomplishment, they
stayed on their bikes for every mile possible.”
A Journey of Letting Go…
Moving On…
and Giving Back!
By Sheila Schwall
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“Because of my involvement with the organization
and my dedication to the ride, Steve Berry (the
cartoonist) encouraged me to put my name in for
the presidential election. After careful considera-
tion, I decided to run for president and I held that
position from the Fall of 2011 to the Summer of
2014.”
What has been your biggest accomplishment
as the President of EMS Memorial Bike Ride?
“I would say keeping the ride going. We have
continued to grow and expand the effort. We
support the National Service, Aeromedical Memo-
rial and the National EMS Memorial Foundation.
The EMS Memorial bike ride has grown from a one
day to a three-day event.
Have you represented the department at the
EMS Memorial?
“Yes I have participated as an Honor Guard
member for the EMS National Memorial Service
and for the EMS Memorial Bike Ride closing
ceremonies over the years. As President every-
one wears their respective department’s dress
uniform.
What do you miss most from the ride?
My sidekick Ariel Marr! She is so full of energy and
she takes care of so many details, she keeps
things running smoothly. She was the mother hen
that kept me moving. I also made some amazing
friendships and connections from all over the
country, which is something I never thought
possible. It recently dawned on me that through
my Honor Guard and Memorial connections I have
friends as far away as Ireland.”
Mark says that his participation, involvement and
experiences as a rider, support person, President
and Honor Guard member was all very personal
for him. “I learned early in my career that when
you have a bad call you need to talk to your
coworkers to deal with that stress. I've seen and
dealt with many horrible accidents and fatalities,
but you encounter new emotions as an Honor
Guard member. I saw another very personal side
of it, you witness the family members pain and
agony up close and that was a new experience for
me.”
Mark closed out his final speech of the year in
Colorado last month. “I didn’t talk about the
things I've seen over the years. I talked about
how we start to resolve our feelings when we’re
dealing with the death of someone. Whether you
are a family friend, provider or colleague it all
starts with talking. I gave a speech about death
and dying last year and I used the word joy. You
would not think of joy as a word that relates to
the grieving process, but that is what you see on
the faces of family members, coworkers and
friends when they are telling stories about the
person who has passed away. They begin to
relive those moments, it happens to everyone. It
doesn’t matter if they are new or old memories,
when they start telling the story they always smile
through the worst pain. They smile when they
are remembering the best times and the touching
moments—that’s what memories are made of.”
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The National Service has a family breakfast on
the last day of the event and it is a very emotion-
al morning. Family members, friends and
colleagues get up and tell stories about their lost
loved ones. “You see pain and sympathy upon
their faces, it is hard for all of us to do, we all are
crying at some point. Someone is always walking
around with a box of tissues looking for the next
person that is crying. This is a crucial moment in
letting go, moving forward and taking a step
towards healing” he says.
Will you run for President in 2014?
I plan to decline the nomination I have received
for the upcoming election as president. I have a
lot on my plate right now and need to focus on
my personal life. I have given a lot of time and
effort to the EMS Memorial ride and have exclud-
ed some of my personal life to the point that I
was no longer enjoying life at home. I was not
getting out and doing things that I enjoy. The
time has come to focus on other my other
passions such as sailing and spending more down
time relaxing with family and friends.
So what is next for you?
I want to strengthen the ties of all of the EMS
Honor Guard groups in Texas. We do not current-
ly have a central point of contact. I would like to
set up a core point of contact so that we have
better communication when the need arises for
Honor Guard members.
I also believe it is imperative to increase the
awareness in this state that EMS is a profession
not just a job. There are too many people in the
industry that still think EMS is just a job. It’s an
honorable profession. We are members of public
safety providing a high-risk layer of protection for
the citizens of this country and there is honor in
that. It is our responsibility to honor ourselves
and our fellow EMS providers. Whether they are
paid, volunteer, private or government providers
we are all the same and there's room for
improvement. The EMS profession is still young
and we are forming traditions, so it’s up to us
how we choose to honor ourselves and our
colleagues.
Currently there is no Texas EMS Memorial, so
with the knowledge and the connections I have
made over the last eight years it is my goal to
bring forth a Texas EMS Memorial for our
providers.
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Where hope soars, lives change,
and dreams take hold.
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There is an organization that I am proud
to be a part of, it is Angel Flight. Angel
Flights mission is to coordinate with volun-
teers across south central region to facili-
tate transport of the critically ill pediatric
patients and their families. These patients
are transported to a much needed higher
level of medical care than can be received
at their local hospital. At no cost to the
patient, Angel Flight air lifts patients in
donated aircraft with volunteer pilots to
their respective destinations. Family and
patients alike receive the highest level of
care and consideration for their comfort
and expedience of travel.
The Angel Flight team connects patients in
need of transportation with pilots who are
available for the missions so that details
including airport of departure and final
destination can be confirmed. On the day
of travel, the patient, family members and
other necessary passengers meet the pilot
at a local airport or air field then is flown
to an airport near their treatment facility,
usually John Hopkins Hospital. Because of
the ongoing commitment of numerous
volunteer pilots, no one has to be denied
critical medical care solely due to the
barrier of distance.
Two years ago while training to obtain my
commercial flight license, I learned about
the Angel Flight program. Upon completion
of flight training I immediately volunteered
to fly for a mission. I now have the honor
of flying a Cessna 4-5 times a month to
picking up, transporting and returning
children in need from Texas, New Mexico,
Oklahoma and Louisiana.
My most memorable flight was a male
pediatric patient that was scheduled for
transport, but at the last minute the family
was unable to get to the airfield due to car
problems. I obtained the family’s phone
number and spoke with family members
in flight and asked them to give me the
GPS coordinates from their iPhone. I input
the coordinates and flew to the area,
circled around a couple times looking at
hazards and landing areas. I felt confident
in my assessment and landed the plane on
the street leading to the patient’s home. I
carefully taxied up to the front door, load-
ed the patient, family and a nurse. We
then taxied back out to the road and I ef-
fortlessly resumed flight with all passen-
gers to MD Anderson Hospital. The patient
was able to make his appointment and re-
ceived lifesaving treatment that afternoon.
It is times like these that I can look back
and know that I truly made a difference in
someone’s life. I am thankful that I have
the skills, knowledge and ability to make
that difference. To give back to a com-
munity in need is incredibly rewarding.
The smiles on the faces of the patients and
the gratitude of the families are all I need
to continue volunteering.
Angel Flight By Craig Fairbrother, Medic II
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The annual Take Heart Survivor Celebration gives cardiac arrest survivors the opportunity to meet the
rescuers involved in their resuscitation.
This year’s celebration in May was especially heartfelt for two ATCEMS Captains due to the complete
recovery of a vivacious 7 year old cardiac arrest patient. The unit responding was assigned to a priority 3
sick call, but when they arrived on scene they found a 7-year- old female in cardiac arrest. It was a very
demanding and chaotic call especially with no fire backup to assist, thus making the event all that more
stressful.
The crew, Captains Randy Chhabra and Mike McDaniel, immediately fell into their roles doing what they
do best; taking action and focusing on the patient and her needs. The crew successfully administered
cardiac defibrillation, which is very uncommon on a child.
Randy and Mike successfully resuscitated the patient and she survived the incident without any
neuro deficit.
All heads turned and the excitement gained momentum when the child arrived in the Meet and Greet
room. She was a little shy when introduced to Mayor Leffingwell, but shyness quickly turned to joy when
she finally got to meet her heroes, Randy and Mike. The picture says it all!
Making a Difference
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Growing up in a comfortable suburb of California, I
never imagined myself doing this kind of thing. After all,
“Public Information Officer” probably isn’t written on
many first grade projects when describing their future
career.
I moved to Texas in June of 2011 so I could fulfill my
dream, attending The University of Texas. I was over-
joyed at the thought of being able to attend one of the
finest journalism schools in the world. Determined not to
become the prototypical indecisive college student, I
was certain of my path. I had aspirations of becoming a
sports writer, maybe someday for my favorite team, the
Dodgers. Suddenly there I was one day. The kid who
looks like they’ve seen a ghost after hearing, “So, what
do you want to do with your life?”
Over the course of my time at UT, I began the cliché
journey of “finding myself.” I would look for fascinating
stories I could write on a weekly basis: stories that were
outside of my comfort zone. It was then that I stumbled
across the complexity that is Austin-Travis County EMS.
I already had some connections, which made the
transition easier. Gerry Moreau, who some of you may
know, is my brother-in-law.
Since then, I have developed a unique admiration for
ATCEMS. I’ve had the opportunity and privilege of
working with several employees, all of which embody
what a public health system is all about. Blood, sweat,
and tears is what they say, and in this industry, you can
take that literally. I was just as shocked as anyone else
when I realized that I just couldn’t stay away from EMS
happenings: the passion, the people, and their stories. I
had found my new aspiration.
I am incredibly honored to be your inaugural intern. I
want to bring what journalism experience I have togeth-
er with what EMS already does so well. I’ve been trained
by the best at UT and feel ready to bring what I’ve
learned into the department. In the areas I will be
working, I am most excited to apply what I’ve learned
about how to utilize social media presence. I’ve been
lucky enough to work with some of the best social
media innovators, and in this day and age, it’s the
single best way to connect with the community.
Because public safety is largely evaluated on how
departments interact with the public, this is a crucial
time for EMS professionals across the country.
Of course, more importantly for me, is what I learn from
all of you. I will come in with open ears and eyes ready
to absorb every bit of information I can. I can’t wait to
see the inner workings and day-to-day operations of
such a notable industry.
Each and every time this department brings in a future
intern, you will only be better for it. Like I always say,
good is not good enough when better is expected. The
reputation of ATCEMS will never be done growing. The
community will always expect better, as it should. The
world is changing rapidly, and new, innovative ideas are
a positive externality of that. That is exactly what I hope
to bring to ATCEMS. Not only my ideas, but the many
future ideas of those that will take my place down the
road.
With that said, I am eager to become part of a
community that lives to serve others. I thank everyone
for the welcome I have already received, and I hope
that the rest of you will be equally as receptive to this
new chapter in the story.
By Melissa Menashe, PIO Intern
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Public Information Office
A NEW Face...Chapter
Challenge...Meet our
PIO Intern
Melissa Menashe
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Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign
The Health & Lifestyle Expo has been sched-
uled for October 8, 7:30 am—2 pm at
Palmer Events Center. Visit with your supervi-
sor now about attending. Highlights include:
Meet Baseball Hall of Famer and Diabetes
Spokesperson Lou Brock
Get Free Produce and sample Healthy
Snacks
Take the Maintain No Gain Challenge
Get a Free Flu Shot and a Free Massage
No registration is needed to attend the Expo.
To complete a Health Assessment at the Expo,
you must make an appt. 877-366-7483.
Health & Lifestyle Expo
The Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign continues through mid-October. Mammo Mixers are being offered at St.
David’s Breast Center to encourage female employees and spouses enrolled in a City medical plan to get a mammo-
gram. These popular mixers fill up fast; check on TRAI N for available openings.
The purpose of the campaign is to highlight the importance of early detection. So even if you don’t attend a mixer,
if you are eligible (age 40 and older, or younger with family history), remember to get your annual mammogram at
a network provider. City benefits cover an annual mammogram at 100%.
Women’s Health Seminars
Attend this informational seminar for women presented by UHC Health Coach Sarah Nielsen. Learn the key issues for each
decade of life: 20s, 30s, 40s, etc. Get your personal health questions answered. Sign up is on TRAIN.
Oct. 1st Noon to 1 pm One Texas Center, 505 Barton Springs Room 325
If you have questions, call 512- 974-3284 and ask to speak with a Wellness Consultant.
Women’s Health Seminars
Attend this informational seminar for women presented by
UHC Health Coach Sarah Nielsen. Learn the key issues for
each decade of life: 20s, 30s, 40s, etc. Get your personal
health questions answered. Sign up is on TRAIN.
Oct. 1 Noon to 1 pm One Texas Center,
505 Barton Springs, Room 325
If you have questions, call 512- 974-3284 and ask to
speak with a Wellness Consultant.
23
Overview of Q4 Classes
Mind & Body
Pilates Mat Class
Tai Chi
Yoga
Run & Walk Training Groups
Run/Walk and Trail Dogs
Walk
PE2
Cardio Group Exercise
Cardio Kickboxing
Tap Dance
Spin classes at the YMCA
Zumba
Strength Training
KX Circuit Training
Defensive Tactics and Conditioning
Women’s Self Defense Class
Circuit Training at PARD Rec Center Gym
Strength Training
Boot Camp
Beginner Boot Camp
Boot Camp
Camp Gladiator Boot Camp
Sports
Beginner and Intermediate Tennis
Soccer
Beginner Volleyball
Introduction to Rowing
Questions?
Email coa.peprogram@austintexas.gov or call 974-3284.
Why is exercise important?
With regular exercise, you can expect to see positive changes in your health, such as weight loss, lower
cholesterol, lower blood pressure and reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes. In fact, employees who
participate in wellness activities have, on average, $131 less in health care claims per month. Make it
your goal to incorporate 150 min. of moderate exercise a week.
PE classes are FREE and conducted by trained coaches and instructors with the necessary experience
and certifications to help you get the best possible workout!
Below are the current classes that are offered. Keep an eye on the Healthy Connections webpage for
next quarter sign up dates!
24
DELIGHTFUL DISHESDELIGHTFUL DISHESDELIGHTFUL DISHES
Ingredients
1 medium spaghetti squash or 2 small spaghetti
squash
1 1/2 lbs. Italian chicken or turkey sausage, casings
removed
1 yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 bunch kale
3 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
Salt and pepper
2 Tbs. pine nuts, toasted
2 Tbs. fresh parsley, chopped
Heat oven to 400°F. Place squash in microwave for 3-4 minutes to soften Using a sharp knife cut the squash
in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and discard. Place the halves, with the cut side up, on a rimmed bak-
ing sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 45-50 minutes, until
you can poke the squash easily with a fork. Let cool until you can handle it safely.
Meanwhile, prepare the kale by removing the center stems and either tearing or cutting up the leaves. Heat
the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 4-5 minutes. Add the
chicken sausage and break apart with a spatula to crumble. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring regularly, until
the sausage is browned and cooked through. Add the kale and stir. Cook for a few minutes more to wilt the
kale. Remove from heat and set aside.
Once cooled, scrape the insides of the spaghetti squash with a fork to shred the squash into strands. Transfer
the strands into the skillet with the sausage and toss to combine. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Divide the mixture among the squash shells, and then top with pine nuts and parsley to serve.
Sausage, Kale and Spaghetti Squash Boats
25
WHAT’S IN SEASON?
Seasonal veggies are better for your tastebuds AND your wallet!
26
“Nearly 40,000 women and 400 men die every year of breast cancer,” according to Lynn
Erdman, Vice President of Community Health at Komen. In the United States, some
researchers credit screening with a death-rate reduction of 15 percent, still 1 in 8 women will
be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Lynn says “Until that number dissipates, I
don’t think there’s enough pink.”
Even as American women embraced mammography, researchers’ understanding of breast
cancer — including the role of early detection — was shifting. The disease, it has become
clear, does not always behave in a uniform way. It’s not even one disease. There are at least
four genetically distinct breast cancers. They may have different causes and definitely respond
differently to treatment.
Early detection and treatment is still the best strategy for a better cancer outcome. The
following is a common strategy, but ask your doctor exactly what you should do to help
prevent breast cancer or find it early:
Check your breasts once a month, three to five days after your menstrual period ends.
Have a thorough medical checkup twice a year, and have annual mammograms. Some
experts recommend starting screening mammography at age 40. Start mammograms
earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer.
If you use contraception, ask your doctor about the pros and cons of birth control pills.
If you are near or in menopause, ask your doctor if you should use hormone replacement
therapy to treat menopause symptoms. Studies suggest that hormone replacement,
especially therapies with a combination of estrogens and progestin’s, can increase the risk
of breast cancer. You and your doctor can make this decision based on your risk of breast
cancer.
If you are at high risk for breast cancer, certain drugs that block the effects of estrogen,
such as tamoxifen and raloxifene, have been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
The risks and benefits of these medications should be discussed with your doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
In its early stages, breast cancer usually has no symptoms. As a tumor develops, you
may note the following signs:
A lump in the breast or underarm that remains after your menstrual cycle. This is often the
first apparent symptom of breast cancer. Lumps associated with breast cancer are usually
painless, although some may cause a prickly sensation. Lumps are usually visible on a
mammogram long before they can be seen or felt.
Swelling in the armpit.
Pain or tenderness in the breast. Although lumps are usually painless, pain or tenderness
can be a sign of breast cancer.
A noticeable flattening or indentation on the breast, which may indicate a tumor that can-
not be seen or felt.
Any change in the size, contour, texture, or temperature of the breast. A reddish, pitted
surface like the skin of an orange could be a sign of advanced breast cancer.
Unusual discharge from the nipple that may be clear, bloody, or another color. It's usually
caused by benign conditions but could be due to cancer in some cases.
An area that is distinctly different from any other area on either breast.
AWARENESS is the KEY to DISCOVERY
27
“Nearly 40,000 women and 400 men die every year of breast cancer,” according to Lynn
Erdman, Vice President of Community Health at Komen. In the United States, some
researchers credit screening with a death-rate reduction of 15 percent, still 1 in 8 women will
be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Lynn says “Until that number dissipates, I
don’t think there’s enough pink.”
Even as American women embraced mammography, researchers’ understanding of breast
cancer — including the role of early detection — was shifting. The disease, it has become
clear, does not always behave in a uniform way. It’s not even one disease. There are at least
four genetically distinct breast cancers. They may have different causes and definitely respond
differently to treatment.
Early detection and treatment is still the best strategy for a better cancer outcome. The
following is a common strategy, but ask your doctor exactly what you should do to help
prevent breast cancer or find it early:
Check your breasts once a month, three to five days after your menstrual period ends.
Have a thorough medical checkup twice a year, and have annual mammograms. Some
experts recommend starting screening mammography at age 40. Start mammograms
earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer.
If you use contraception, ask your doctor about the pros and cons of birth control pills.
If you are near or in menopause, ask your doctor if you should use hormone replacement
therapy to treat menopause symptoms. Studies suggest that hormone replacement,
especially therapies with a combination of estrogens and progestin’s, can increase the risk
of breast cancer. You and your doctor can make this decision based on your risk of breast
cancer.
If you are at high risk for breast cancer, certain drugs that block the effects of estrogen,
such as tamoxifen and raloxifene, have been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
The risks and benefits of these medications should be discussed with your doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
In its early stages, breast cancer usually has no symptoms. As a tumor develops, you
may note the following signs:
A lump in the breast or underarm that remains after your menstrual cycle. This is often the
first apparent symptom of breast cancer. Lumps associated with breast cancer are usually
painless, although some may cause a prickly sensation. Lumps are usually visible on a
mammogram long before they can be seen or felt.
Swelling in the armpit.
Pain or tenderness in the breast. Although lumps are usually painless, pain or tenderness
can be a sign of breast cancer.
A noticeable flattening or indentation on the breast, which may indicate a tumor that can-
not be seen or felt.
Any change in the size, contour, texture, or temperature of the breast. A reddish, pitted
surface like the skin of an orange could be a sign of advanced breast cancer.
Unusual discharge from the nipple that may be clear, bloody, or another color. It's usually
caused by benign conditions but could be due to cancer in some cases.
An area that is distinctly different from any other area on either breast.
AWARENESS is the KEY to DISCOVERY
28
Heath Holt and Jacob Smith with Governor Rick Perry at the
X Games.
Chris Waters and John Donohoe
working Red Fest at Circuit of the
Pinning and swearing ceremony at HQ
Chief Gardner gets her BP taken
during her health assessment at
the Wellness Center
Ashton Peek
(Marc’s son!)
is an Explorer
Motor Medic Training Shed seems tired from Motor
Medic training
29
Kyle Cirac after finishing the 5K portion of the Austin
Marathon. Kyle suffered a cardiac arrest at last year's
Statesman Capitol 10K.
If you’re old enough to
remember you were
probably a fan too!
Chris Waters and John Donohoe
working Red Fest at Circuit of the
Scott and Juan preparing food for
Medics working the inaugural X
Games
Captain Randy Chhabra teaching hands-
only CPR at the Lakeway Activity Center
Commander/PIO Mike Benavides conducts “The
Shocking Truth” Lightning Safety presentation
Connor and Rachel at
Explorers wilderness
first aid training
30
Employee Recognition |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Neda Oskouee, Adam Bostick and John Eeten:
I wanted you guys to see how important what you all do for us is in the daily work of the staff you teach and mentor; the impact it has on our staff, the agencies we serve with, and the patients we take care of.
This is the product of your work, your education process, your desire to give back to your colleagues and your
profession.
Thank you all for what you do and your contributions, this is the product of YOUR work, and for that I thank you all.
Bravo Zulu!
Mikel Kane,
Division Chief
Tonight TCSO had an Assault with Injury (Strangulation) family violence call.
We requested EMS for two victims (a 54 year old female who had been bitten, and another victim who
had been bitten and strangled).
Since your EMTs were already there we asked if they would check the suspect, to determine if another
EMS crew was needed to transport the suspect to an area hospital.
Throughout their contact with the belligerent suspect, your EMTs did an outstanding job of providing care
and using restraint. He was intoxicated and problematic.
I commend ATCEMS Medics Becky Tolbert #1670 and Kevin Delashmit #1583 for a job well done.
My partners and I appreciate their cooperative and professional attitude.
Steven Moore #1262
Travis County Sheriff’s Office
Senior Deputy Sheriff/Field Training Officer
Becky and Kevin,
I personally want to thank you both for your professionalism and commitment to the citizens who depend
on us, and the partner agencies we work with every day. You have represented us all, our agency and
our profession with honor, courage and commitment; for that I am grateful. Thank you for your work.
Bravo Zulu!
Mikel Kane, Division Chief
31
New FTO’s
Jeff Elias
Brian Stubbs
Michael Flanagan
Nathan Rasmussen
New Captains
Natalie Lyon
Dave Thomas
New Commanders
Craig Smith
Jim Martin
Danielle Henson, Tara Spencer, Lance Foster:
After reviewing a Customer Service issue surrounding a call on 8/26/2014 it must be noted how well the staff
performed during and after this call. All three, Commander Danielle Henson, Captain Tara Spencer, and Communications Medic Lance Foster, demonstrated the utmost professionalism, highest degree of patience, and true commitment to our profession and our organization.
They have made my job so much easier in dealing with a difficult situation by maintaining their utmost desire to
assist this citizen with their issue while at the same time adhering to the safety practices and procedures to protect their co-workers and teammates.
My thanks to them for their commitment to the mission, the citizens we serve, and their craft. It is a pleasure working beside professionals like Daniel, Tara, and Lance.
Bravo Zulu!
Mikel Kane
Division Chief
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Rick Branning can now be found amongst the billing
ladies as the Customer Care Program Manager.
Congratulations on your promotion!
Rick Rutledge is the newest team member within
the PIO section.
32
Patient Comments:
They pretty much walked me right through everything that was going on. I couldn't have wished for better care.
Very professional and kind. Thank you and continue being the best.
They were very caring and they certainly had my health and situation in mind. They were here quickly, very helpful,
and it was very good and comforting to have that kind of care.
They were very sensitive to what I was feeling.
Their demeanor was very calming, and telling me play by play what was going on and what was happening. They
were just great.
They were very clear with their instructions and caring for me, and let me make my own choices and I really
appreciated that.
Customer Service Response:
715 calls were made during July. The questions asked focused on measurable
customer service actions.
Respondents were asked to rate the customer service provided by our medics on a scale from 1 to 5,
with 5 being the best – 91.37% of the patients rated the customer service they received at a 5 and
5.58% rated their service at a 4. The average rating overall was 4.86out of 5 for customer service.
The response we obtained from our customers is evidence of the great medics we have and the
tremendous job you do each and every day.
33
Patient Comments:
They pretty much walked me right through everything that was going on. I couldn't have wished for better care.
Very professional and kind. Thank you and continue being the best.
They were very caring and they certainly had my health and situation in mind. They were here quickly, very helpful,
and it was very good and comforting to have that kind of care.
They were very sensitive to what I was feeling.
Their demeanor was very calming, and telling me play by play what was going on and what was happening. They
were just great.
They were very clear with their instructions and caring for me, and let me make my own choices and I really
appreciated that.
The dawn of a new day brings
new beginnings, new opportunities,
and renewed faith to capture
your dreams.
34
Blast from the past...MCI drill
EMAIL US WITH YOUR SUGGESTIONS REGARDING…
WRITING A GUEST COLUMN
PHOTO CONTRIBUTIONS
STORIES FROM THE FIELD/COMMUNICATIONS
EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION
ANYTHING ELSE WE MAY HAVE MISSED OR YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW
ABOUT
EDITOR IN CHIEF: lisa.sepulveda@austintexas.gov
ASSOCIATE EDITOR/WRITER: sheila.schwall@austintexas.gov
COVER ARTWORK/PHOTOGRAPHER/WRITER: clemente.leal@austintexas.gov