OAMTA Champion of Life

Lakeside, Ohio – For a while there, we held our breath every time we heard sirens. Our local ground ambulance service, the very people we rely on in emergencies, was stretched thin. Funding cuts, aging equipment, and a volunteer force nearing burnout painted a grim picture for our community's immediate healthcare response. It felt like we were one flat tire or one unexpected surge in calls away from a crisis.

That's when Mayor Carol Thompson stepped in. Now, Mayor Thompson isn't one for grandstanding or making empty promises. She's the kind of leader who rolls up her sleeves and gets to work, and that's exactly what she did for Lakeside's EMS.

Remember those town hall meetings last fall? The ones where folks voiced their concerns about longer response times and the strain on our paramedics? Mayor Thompson wasn't just listening; she was formulating a plan. She didn't try to pass the buck or blame higher levels of government. Instead, she took ownership of the problem right here in Lakeside.

First, she spearheaded a series of community fundraisers. From bake sales at the farmers' market to a surprisingly successful "Dunk-a-Mayor" booth at the town fair, Lakeside residents rallied. But Mayor Thompson knew that grassroots efforts alone wouldn't be enough.

Behind the scenes, she was working tirelessly with the county and state officials, making a clear and compelling case for Lakeside's urgent needs. She didn't just ask for handouts; she presented data, highlighted the increasing call volume, and demonstrated the vital role a well-funded ambulance service plays in our rural community.

And it paid off. Just last month, Mayor Thompson announced a significant increase in county funding earmarked specifically for Lakeside's ground ambulance service. This, coupled with the funds raised by the community, has allowed us to purchase a much-needed new ambulance and invest in updated medical equipment.

But Mayor Thompson's efforts didn't stop there. Recognizing the strain on our dedicated volunteers, she launched a recruitment drive and secured grant funding to offer stipends for new and existing emergency medical technicians (EMTs). This initiative is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of our service.

The atmosphere around the ambulance station these days is noticeably brighter. Paramedics have the resources they need, response times are improving, and that constant worry that had settled over our town is starting to lift.

Mayor Thompson's leadership on this issue is a testament to what local government can achieve when it's truly focused on the needs of its citizens. She saw a problem, listened to the community, and worked tirelessly to find a solution.

Lakeside is fortunate to have a mayor who understands the importance of a strong, responsive emergency medical service. Thanks to her dedication and hard work, we can all sleep a little easier knowing that help is there when we need it most. This isn't just about a new ambulance; it's about the health and well-being of our entire community, and Mayor Thompson delivered.