Area paramedics honoured at Queen’s Park

For immediate release: October 24, 2019

SIMCOE – A pair of local paramedics received the Ontario Award for Paramedic Bravery October 22nd at Queen’s Park.  

Marie Sopko and Ched Zivic, both of Haldimand County Paramedic Services, received the award in connection to an incident in January 2018. At that time, the pair responded to reports of a house fire caused by a possible explosion. When they arrived on scene, the victim had severe burns to their face and upper body. The homeowner initially refused treatment as he tried to put the fire out in his home. Sopko attempted to put out the fire with an extinguisher, while paramedic Zivic successfully convinced the man to leave and receive treatment.

“Paramedics play an important role in communities across Ontario by providing people and families with care, help and support in times of urgent need,” said Christine Elliott, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care.

In total, 13 paramedics from across Ontario received the award for various acts of bravery and courage, either on or off duty.

“We are blessed to have folks like Maria and Ched working in our community to keep our friends and family safe,” said Haldimand-Norfolk MPP Toby Barrett. “Paramedics are the first on-scene. This award is a significant acknowledgement of their bravery and heroic efforts.”

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For more information, please contact MPP Toby Barrett at 519-428-0446, 905-765-8413 or 1-800-903-8629