Big “Thank You” to EMS Workers; Professionals and Extensive Volunteer Network

Annual St. Luke's cookout designed to show appreciation for everyone's role.

DULUTH, Minn. — The rains cleared early enough for a big thank you Wednesday, although this cookout had plenty of shelter.

It was a big appreciation day for everyone who helps with emergency medical responses.

St. Luke’s has been putting on the event for over a decade. Inside the emergency ambulance garage, there was warm food and a warm “Thank You” for everyone involved in the important life-saving work.

That includes paid, full-time professionals who make it their life work, and it does not stop there.

“But then there’s a lot of rural volunteer services for all the other outstate places that still need EMS coverage, but where they don’t need someone in a truck 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Dr. Amery Robinson, Medical Director of the Emergency Department at Aspirus St. Luke’s.

“So those people are volunteers. And the EMS system in our region, and in many parts of the United States, is really dependent on volunteer transport services. So, a big ‘Thank you’ to all those people who are willing to put forth time and effort for things they’re not getting compensated for. They’re just doing it out of the goodness of their hearts,” said Robinson.

Those thanked Wednesday included people working in communities across the entire northeastern corner of the state.

Several organizations and businesses pitched in to help provide the food spread and various gifts and swag.

The need for funding and staffing for emergency services has been receiving a lot of attention, including in the most recent Minnesota legislative session.