Spizzirri Flies High With Queen's EMS

SALF, October 25, 2004

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Save A Life Foundation President/Founder, Carol Spizzirri, has been recognized for her tireless efforts inworking with local EMS forces to empower community members, especially children, with skills needed to render life supporting first aid to those who may encounter a man-made, natural or personal disaster, by West Midlands Region County Air Ambulance (UK).  David S. Jones, Contingency Planning Manager of West Midlands Ambulance Service presented the award, in the form of a shield, revealing the Air Crew's coat of arms, making Spizzirri an honorary Aircrew Member of their Air Operations Division.

The County Air Ambulance's service commenced in May of 1991, yielding just a single helicopter.  In the years since, it has introduced a second helicopter (May 1997), and now, even a third (November 1999), and by the end of 2002, had successfully completed over 15,000 missions.  Most recently, CAA won the UK national award for having the best Community Responder scheme in the country.  Since its inception, CAA's ability to provide skilled treatment and fast transport has saved an average of one life every four weeks.

Although many similarities are present between domestic EMS programs and those overseas, there are some distinct variations as well.  County Air Ambulance is funded entirely through charitable support and its EMS providers do not receive payment, in any form.

"I am thoroughly impressed with the consistent efforts compiled by the County Air Ambulance.  Their selfless actions and their dedication to life supporting first aid really hit home with me.  I am honored to have an affiliation with an outfit that exudes such professional character and integrity." - Carol Spizzirri, SALF President/Founder