Across a career spanning three decades, Weld County Dispatcher Laura Schumacher has served as an initial first responder to many going through their worst day. She has provided reassurance to callers and critical information to first responders to facilitate emergency assistance, while rarely getting to know the final outcome of a call
Weld County Dispatcher Laura Schumacher (far left) with Fire Protection Staff
In August, the Platteville-Gilcrest Fire Protection District (PGFPD) presented her with an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Star of Life and Lifesaving Commendation. Schumacher was recognized, along with four members of the PGFPD, for her role in helping to facilitate emergency response to a caller who was having difficulty breathing and speaking.
After determining the caller needed an ambulance, Schumacher stayed in constant contact and was able to relay critical information to first responders about the caller’s location and condition. When first responders arrived, they discovered a tracheostomy issue and performed lifesaving actions. Matt Concialdi, EMS Division Chief for PGFPD, said such an outcome would likely not have been possible without the strong work of Schumacher in extremely difficult circumstances and the ability of first responders to transport the caller quickly and assist in restoring the caller’s airway.
“I’ve been doing this for 30 years, and this is my first Lifesaving Award. So, it really is pretty special to have a fire district contact you and recognize you for your outstanding job,” Schumacher said.
Trademarked in 1977, the EMS Star of Life is designed to recognize six elements that represent the true meaning of the EMS system. Those elements include detection, reporting, response, on-scene care, care in transit and transfer to definitive care.