Heroes of Hessmer: First Responders Honored for Life-Saving Teamwork ❤️🚒

Members of the Hessmer Volunteer Fire Department and Acadian Ambulance were recently recognized for their coordinated response and compassionate care during a cardiac emergency in December 2025.

Firefighters were dispatched to a reported cardiac arrest involving an elderly male patient. Hessmer volunteers arrived first on scene and immediately initiated CPR while Acadian Ambulance crews were en route. Upon arrival, Acadian paramedics joined firefighters in continuing resuscitation efforts, including the use of CPR and an AED.

Their teamwork led to a return of spontaneous circulation, known as ROSC. The patient was transported by Acadian Ambulance to Avoyelles Hospital and later transferred to Alexandria for continued care.

“Although the patient only lived a few more days, those days gave his family the invaluable opportunity to gather, make peace, and say their goodbyes,” said Acadian Ambulance Operations Coordinator Amy Guidry.

To honor the joint effort, Acadian Ambulance crew members attended the Hessmer Volunteer Fire Department’s January monthly meeting. During the gathering, firefighters were presented with king cakes and awarded challenge coins in appreciation of their dedication.

Fire Chief Quinn Drouin also invited the patient’s family to attend, giving them the opportunity to personally thank the responders for their swift action and teamwork.

“This response was more than a cardiac arrest call; it was an example of how every link in the Chain of Survival works together,” said Acadian Operations Manager Christian Dennis.

In Avoyelles Parish, there are 15 fire departments, two paid and 13 staffed entirely by volunteers. Many Hessmer volunteers have served their community for decades, responding at all hours without pay to assist neighbors in need. Acadian Ambulance expressed its honor in working alongside these dedicated volunteers each and every day.