Ambulance response for person in need was much too slow during church service

Editor:

At the 8 a.m. Mass on Sunday, Dec. 24, at St. Joseph’s,  an older gentleman was having a medical issue. About 10 minutes into Mass, an ambulance was called when it became apparent that the man was having difficulties.

Ten more minutes went by, with no sign of any ambulance. The prayers for intentions were read, the gifts brought up, and the collection was taken up. At this point, I’m guessing 30 minutes had gone by. A call was made to the Albion Police Department.

It’s my understanding that the ambulance called for was coming from Murray. There was a second Monroe ambulance sitting at Taco Bell. Again, it’s my understanding that the Albion Fire Department wasn’t called nor was Mercy Flight, or the second Monroe ambulance to assist.   Perhaps 40 minutes had passed, with still no ambulance in sight.

 I believe they showed up as Communion started, so possibly 45 minutes had gone by? It’s my understanding that a call was made by the officers to get the ambulance at Taco Bell over there.  I may not have the timing right, nor who made the calls, but as anyone attending a Catholic Mass knows, you don’t need a watch to know how many minutes have passed in relation to the rites. Since I was sitting with my new friend holding his hand, waiting for the ambulance, I only have this to say to the Town Board members who voted for the contract with Monroe Ambulance – shame on you!

Shame on Monroe Ambulance for not calling for assistance. Think about that the next time your father, grandfather or any relative goes to church services. Where do you want your ambulance to come from? Down the street, around the corner, or from the furthest point possible?

With that being said, thank you to Pete Sidari, Jay Kovaleski, the Albion police officers, Father Dick Csizmar, and Fran Dibley, who spent most of Mass outside in rough weather waiting for the ambulance. I am so glad all of you were there to help.

And to my new friend, I hope you are well, and I’ll expect to see you in the back pew.

Linda Rice

Albion