The London Ambulance Service (LAS) features a bike response unit that may shortly attain sufferers in congested city areas. The crew of 30 paramedics will be the unsung heroes of the LAS, however one among their very own, Richard Webb-Stevens, not too long ago acquired the Queen’s Ambulance Service Medal for Distinguished Service.
Webb-Stevens began his 23-year profession as a member of London’s Air Ambulance. Born with profound listening to loss, he additionally grew to become the primary deaf paramedic to work for the emergency helicopter medical service. When a terrorist drove a automobile right into a crowd of pedestrians outdoors the Palace of Westminster in 2017, killing 4 individuals and injuring 50 extra, Webb-Stevens offered immediate care to numerous victims.
“The Queen’s Ambulance Service Medal is awarded to members of the NHS ambulance service for distinguished service, and I can consider no higher individual than Richard to obtain this illustrious Honour,” admitted London Ambulance Service Chief Govt Daniel Elkeles. “Richard has proven distinctive dedication to our sufferers over his 23 years with us, saving numerous lives. He’s an inspiration to employees and volunteers throughout our group and the broader NHS, and we’re very happy with his achievements.”
Webb-Stevens’ influential work isn’t simply restricted to the sector both. After becoming a member of the LAS bike response unit, he discovered that the in-helmet communicator wasn’t suitable along with his listening to help. Regardless of pessimistic suggestions from designers, audiologists, and listening to help firms, Webb-Stevens developed a suitable design that’s now utilized by police departments, medical staff, and navy models worldwide.
Not even COVID-19 may hold the moto paramedic down. Webb-Stevens contracted the virus early within the pandemic however promptly returned to his put up after receiving life-saving care.
“I’m completely humbled to have acquired this award, particularly as HM The Queen marks her Platinum Jubilee yr,” Webb-Stevens acknowledged. “I’m extraordinarily proud to be a paramedic on the London Ambulance Service and it’s a privilege to serve the individuals of London.”
