Detroit Fire Medics Honored for Cardiac Arrest Rescue

The Detroit Fire Department honored paramedic Chris Photiades and EMT Samuel Lemire with the Kim Lagerquist Lifesaver of the Year award for their heroic efforts in saving Micah Parker, who suffered cardiac arrest while working on scaffolding three stories high. The medics, alongside firefighters and Parker's union colleagues, worked swiftly and collaboratively to safely lower Parker and administer life-saving CPR and defibrillation, leading to his full recovery and hospital discharge just two days later. The award, named after a pioneer in Michigan's emergency medical services, recognizes extraordinary skill, professionalism, and dedication. Parker expressed deep gratitude, stating the experience profoundly changed his outlook on life. The Detroit Fire Department also promotes community involvement through hands-only CPR training sessions to empower more people to save lives in emergencies. This recognition underscores the critical impact of first responders and the value of widespread CPR knowledge for public health and safety.