Michael Ray Jackson
Jan. 22, 1971 - Feb. 9, 1995

This Page Is Dedicated In Memory Of EMT Michael Ray Jackson. Michael was a very dear friend of our son, (the Police Officer). Michael left behind not only a loving immediate family, but also a very loving EMS "family."

This special young man loved to help *everyone*! Michael and his partner, Lisa Langston, were traveling to Chapel Hill, NC, for a patient transport to a local nursing facility. They came upon a vehicle accident involving a tractor-trailer and an automobile. Being "Michael," he immediately stopped to assist. Lisa returned to the ambulance to retrieve "safety markers" for the highway.

While she was in the ambulance, Michael, who was talking with the accident victims and eyewitnesses, saw the eighteen-wheeler (parked behind the ambulance) begin rolling. Concerned for his partner and all by-standers, he started toward the driver's side of the ambulance. Unfortunately, the brakes on the big rig apparently were not secured, and the ambulance (with Lisa still inside) was hit, pushing it into Michael, who was then in front of the ambulance.

He was such a sweet and kind person, always wishing to help others. His life was taken instantly. We miss you, Michael! We always will!

When I sent out my Police pages, I received many messages asking why I did not include Emergency Medical Technicians and Firefighters. I was in the process of doing just that. ~Smiles~. I had to do a lot of reading to learn about the EMT's and also received a great deal of information from Lisa Langston, an EMT here in NC. Thanks so much, Lisa! If you find I have made any errors, please let me know. This is a very dedicated group of wonderful people and I want them to have the credit they so richly deserve!

It seems that the training varies from state to state but I did learn the following about training in NC. There are now six levels of training available for EMT's in our state. I also learned that an EMT does not want to be called an "Ambulance Driver!" I do feel the driver also has a *very* dangerous job! The six levels of training available in NC are as follows:

Level One: First Responder (with which I am familiar since our son is a First Responder with the Police Department). Level Two: Medical Responder (a state-recognized certification). Level Three: EMT Basic. Level Four: EMT, Defibrillator. Level Five: EMT-Intermediate and Level Six: EMT-Paramedic (which is the highest ranking).

EMT training is very intense and certification is required! They do continuing education under their local colleges to attain their certification. Whether they are an Intermediate or a Paramedic, they are still a very highly respected EMT! So let's give them *all* the credit they deserve.

And let us not forget the Life Flight Helicopters that airlift the very critical to trauma hospitals as quickly as possible.

If I have made any mistakes, please do not hesitate to let me know.. Thanks for everything you do--every day and every night! God Bless You!

"EMS PRAYER"

As I perform my duty Lord, Whatever be the call,
Help to guide and keep me safe, from dangers big and small.

I want to serve and do my best, No matter what the scene.
I pledge to keep my skills refined, My judgement quick and keen.

This calling to give of myself, Most do not understand.
But I stand ready all the time to help my fellow man.

To have the chance to help a child, restore his laugh with glee.
A word of thanks I might not hear, but knowing is enough for me.

The praise of men is fine for some, But I feel truly blessed.
That you oh Lord, have chosen me to serve in EMS!

"PRECIOUS FEW"

The wind upon our face, is often brisk and cold.
It's not always the weather, but the plight beyond control.

God surely saw a need, for the work we're pursuing.
His words echo gently, "Be not weary in well doing."

Time waits for no one, desperately we fight;
To beat the golden hour, do our job and do it right.

Sacrifice has no limit, self must be denied.
Praise does not exist, and patience has been tried.

Weakness becomes strength, courage replaces fear.
Exhaustion is forgotten, when we feel His presence near.

Prayer is our greatest tool, and first on every call.
Without God, the stumbling blocks,would surely make us fall.

In a troubled world, which we must live,there's only a 'precious few,'
Who are capable and willing, to give the way we do.

God took the best and made a team, to lend a helping hand.
He needed us to be the ones, with footprints in the sand.

Copyright ©
Written by A North Carolina EMT!

Please Sign My Guest Book Before You Leave ~smile~
Images Welcomed

Please use the dropdown menu to browse more sections
or click on the "Home" button....thanks!