A York Region paramedic is one of 11 individuals being recognized with an Ontario medal for paramedic bravery.
Taylor Collins saw a head-on collision on her way home after a shift, and despite dangers and risks to her safety, she jumped into action to help save the lives of the people in the vehicles.
York Region Paramedic Services states in a news release that her courage, bravery, and selfless actions exemplify the true essence of heroism and testament and commitment to supporting the health and well-being of residents.
"I am honoured to recognize this year's recipients of the Ontario Medal for Paramedic Bravery for their heroism and dedication to saving lives in the face of danger," said Ontario Minister of Health Sylvia Jones in a news release. "These paramedics represent the very best of Ontario, and our government is proud to honour them with this prestigious award recognizing their life-saving contributions to the communities they serve."
There are more than 12,500 paramedics currently employed in the province, the largest group of paramedics in Canada.
Nominations must be made through the nominee's paramedic service and endorsed by their paramedic chief. The Ontario medal for paramedic bravery is awarded to paramedics who have demonstrated extraordinary courage in risking their lives to save others.
Other acts of bravery recognized include moving an injured Ontario Provincial Police officer out of harm's way, providing care to officers suffering from life-threatening gunshot wounds while in an unsafe environment, removing people from a burning car at risk of exploding, rescuing people from burning homes while being exposed to potentially deadly smoke, saving other first responders during a gas line explosion and providing life-saving care to injured youth while off-duty.
