For Fabio Nizzola, no job is too big or too small when it comes to helping someone out. Nizzola is an Intensive Care Paramedic from Balmoral, and he recently received the Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal on Nov. 7 at the Government House in Winnipeg.
The Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal is awarded to personnel who have worked in the emergency services field for 20 years, including at least 10 that involved duties with potential risk. It was one of the unique medals the Governor General of Canada awarded.
Nizzola has worked as a paramedic for 24 years and has no plans to stop anytime soon.
“I am really enjoying myself,” said Nizzola. “Why come out of something I really enjoy. I like to be out, so who knows what the future brings. I will go as long as I can.”
The Balmoral resident fell in love with emergency services when he started his career.
“I like the whole idea of being able to help people out. It is a huge fulfilment when you make a difference in someone’s life. You never know where you are going to be,” said Nizzola.
He also added that he has fun getting to be behind a siren.
Nizzola was nominated for the Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal by his employer, and on Nov.7 we was in attendance with several other medal recipients that evening.
Louise Alarie, Director of Emergency Medical Services within the Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority, handed Nizzola his medal, which he now proudly displays at home.
“My kids are really proud of me. Coming home that night is what made the night really good,” Nizzola noted.
He also uttered the importance of having a supportive family.
“It is tough. You miss birthdays and holidays but that is the job. It’s good to know that you have a family at home that understands,” he said.
The Honourable Anita Neville, Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba, was also in attendance for the medal ceremony. Nizzola had the opportunity to meet with her personally, and he thought that experience was neat.
The Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal ceremony concluded with a cocktail reception, during which all recipients could meet and mingle before returning to their emergency medical services jobs the next day.
