At this month’s Upper Providence Township Board of Supervisors Meeting, Fire Chief Mike Risell and Friendship Ambulance Chief George Gilliano recognized several first responders with Lifesaving Awards for their heroic actions earlier this year.
At this month’s Upper Providence Township Board of Supervisors Meeting, Fire Chief Mike Risell and Friendship Ambulance Chief George Gilliano recognized several first responders with Lifesaving Awards for their heroic actions earlier this year.
In January 2025, Don Cannon experienced sudden cardiac arrest outside of a local restaurant. Thanks to the quick actions of restaurant manager Jackie Calhoun, CPR was started immediately while 9-1-1 was called. Crews from the Black Rock Volunteer Fire Company arrived promptly, applied an automated external defibrillator (AED), and began advanced life-saving care. CPR continued en route to the hospital, and Mr. Cannon received three additional AED shocks during transport.
The swift coordination between the restaurant staff and emergency personnel was critical in saving Don’s life. He and his wife attended Monday’s meeting to personally thank the individuals who played a role in his recovery and survival. After the ceremony, Don spent time speaking with the responders whose efforts made all the difference.
Award recipients included:
- Black Rock Volunteer Fire Company: Deputy Chief Rich Hughes, Captain Chris Steiger, Firefighters Avon Jones, Colin DeAngelis, Matt Brun, and Richard Brown
- Upper Providence Township Department of Fire and Emergency Services: Firefighter/EMT Jared Weeks, Captain Will Clemens, and Firefighter/EMT Jason Adams
- Friendship Ambulance: Paramedics Jacob Neveil and Renee McCarraher
The Board of Supervisors expressed their deep appreciation for the ongoing commitment of these emergency professionals and volunteers. Their actions are a testament to the exceptional level of care and dedication shown by our public safety teams throughout Upper Providence Township.