Meet First Responder Calvin Gibbons

Calvin Gibbons is a newly certified EMT-B serving Grant County EMS. His motivation to become an EMT stems from his desire “to be of value to the community.”

Gibbons became involved with EMS after his friend Robert Stamey invited him to try an EMT class.

Gibbons then attended the EMT-B class held by Grant County EMS last year and was one of the few individuals who passed it. After receiving his Kansas EMT-B certification, he was employed by Grant County EMS.

Now as a certified EMT-B, Gibbons’ responsibilities include providing care for patients, supporting other EMTs and paramedics, continuing his education, and contributing to the cleanliness and order of the station.

His position as an EMT has helped Gibbons develop a wide range of skills.

“I've [learned] too many skills and lessons to list, but they include lifesaving care for all sorts of emergencies, creating relationships and building genuine trust with the people we work with, and of course how to put on a bandage,” Gibbons said.

The emergencies Gibbons responds to can vary with each call.

“People who call for EMS are usually not calling just for fun. It’s a really bad day for them and an emergency for them,” he said. “Our job as EMS is to make sure they get the care they need, when they need it, without being panicked ourselves.”

One of the most fulfilling parts of the job for Gibbons is also one of the most difficult.

While he gets to “see people at their most vulnerable while being in a position to offer help in whatever way [he] can,” he also recognizes that “the hardest part is seeing people at their most vulnerable.”

But as a newer member of EMS, Gibbons recognizes, “I'm still learning, so my ability to help is limited.” 

He cites his experience of working alongside more experienced EMS personnel as valuable, both for learning and camaraderie.

“The men and women I work with are experts at this and it's a pleasure to have them with me,” he said.

One misconception Gibbons hopes to correct is the idea that EMS workers only transport patients to the hospital.

“We are not just a ride to the hospital,” he said. “EMTs provide pre-hospital care that can be lifesaving, as every second counts in a crisis, especially when it comes to recovery.”

In addition to working part-time for Grant County EMS, Gibbons also works at a local feedyard. During a typical day, he works in various departments at the feedyard as needed. On weekends when he is not working at the feedyard, he works with EMS.

Outside of work, Gibbons is a family man. As a father of two, much of his free time is devoted to his children and his wife. The family enjoys playing games, watching movies, traveling to new places, and occasionally going out to eat together. He also said he enjoys “working on projects around [his] house, shooting, and playing video games.”

Chris Meile, Assistant Director and a full-time paramedic for Grant County EMS, cites Gibbons’ willingness to learn and serve as qualities that make him stand out as a member of the EMS team.

“His eagerness to learn, and ability to remain calm during stressful situations as a newbie in EMS doesn't go unnoticed,” Meile said. “Grant County is blessed to have him serving the community.”

If you would like to nominate someone as a Responder of the Week, please submit your nomination to news2@ulyssesnews.com. Nominees can include law enforcement officers, 911 dispatchers, firefighters, paramedics, EMTs, military personnel, public health professionals, and utility line workers.