International Paramedics Day Volunteer Spotlight: Honouring Compassion Through Every Wish
On International Paramedics Day, we celebrate the dedication, skill and compassion of paramedics who make a difference in the lives of others every day. This year’s theme, “Innovate & Integrate,” recognises the many ways paramedics work collaboratively to provide person-centred care and support within their communities.
For Ambulance Wish Queensland volunteer paramedic Warren, those values come to life through helping palliative patients and their families create meaningful memories together.
Warren describes palliative care as “the most selfless field of healthcare”, acknowledging the extraordinary work of clinicians who support patients and their loved ones through one of life’s most challenging journeys.
“It is challenging, confronting at times and deeply rewarding for those called to this field of healthcare,” he said.
“Simple acts of kindness change the lives of our patients and their families forever.”
His decision to volunteer with Ambulance Wish Queensland was inspired by the legacy of a close friend, Craig, a Queensland Ambulance Service paramedic who passed away while responding to a critical incident in the Mackay region in 2018.
Craig was known for going above and beyond for his patients. One story in particular stayed with Warren. While transporting a palliative patient from home to hospital, Craig learned the patient, who had spent much of his life around the water, wished he could visit the beach one final time.
Craig and his partner made that wish a reality.
“That story has always stayed with me,” Warren said.
“So, when the opportunity arose to volunteer with Ambulance Wish Queensland, I saw it as my way of honouring Craig’s legacy.”
Today, Warren is helping create those same meaningful moments for patients and families facing the reality of a life-limiting illness.
He believes the impact of a wish extends far beyond the individual patient.
“A simple wish brings families together,” he said.
“Some wishes are simple, to go home and pat their dog or sit together with family at the dining table for a delicious meal. Other wishes tick off one final bucket list item.”
Whatever the wish may be, Warren says the outcome is often the same.
“Our patients get to forget about their pain and disease and connect with what matters most to them.”
“The smiles, laughter and tears shared in those moments remind us what life is all about.”
One wish that has particularly stayed with him involved supporting a father and his family on a special visit to Bluey’s World.
Before the outing, the patient was struggling with some of the challenges and emotions associated with his illness. Warren spent time speaking with him and offering reassurance and perspective during a difficult moment.
As Ambulance Wish Queensland continues to fulfil meaningful wishes across the state, volunteers like Warren embody the spirit of paramedicine through compassion, empathy and person-centred care.
This International Paramedics Day, we thank Warren and all paramedics and especially our 100+ volunteer paramedics who help make extraordinary moments possible, creating lasting memories for patients and the people who matter most to them.
