Meet the Rescuer

On September 12, a grateful patient took the time to thank the emergency first responders who helped him.

EMT Jenn Myers, Sarah Nilsen, Karen Nilsen, Daniel Nilsen & Paramedic Rommel Kirchoff

Daniel Nilsen was in a serious car accident during the early hours of a stormy, winter night. His car skidded off the expressway, down an embankment, and was quickly covered with falling snow. He went unnoticed for hours, unable to get out of his car due to a possible spinal injury, until an observant passerby saw the fading interior dome light and called 911.

The Nilsen’s with 911 Dispatchers Steve Spencer, Scott Fiordeliso & Pat Maar

The vital links of the emergency chain of command began with the observed citizen who called 911; the 911 dispatcher who dispatched the appropriate emergency responders;

The Nilsen’s with Sheriff’s Deputy Tim Fitzpatrick

the Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies and Brighton Fire Department personnel who quickly responded to provide traffic control, preliminary emergency care, and patient extrication; and BVA Paramedic Rommel Kirchoff and BVA EMT Jenn Myers who provided advanced life support to treat Daniel in his car and on the way to the hospital.

Daniel, his family, and others gathered at our base to meet and thank those who helped him that wintery night. After his recovery and because of his experience, Daniel became a 911 dispatcher so he can pay it forward to help others.

Watch a video of the event courtesy of WHAM Channel 13.

The Nilsen’s with Brighton Firefighters Rick Tracy, Chris Gunter & Ted Aroesty

BVA Chief Cody Dean, Dan Nilsen & Brighton Town Supervisor Bill Moehle