Call to action! One of our own needs our help. Jim Brown (Medic #5494 Retired) has been diagnosed prostate cancer. His specialists are considering it an aggressive cancer. Although the prognosis is positive, he’s already been hospitalized with near kidney failure, had stints put in his kidneys and has had 2 major infections requiring hospitalization. Jim is 68 years old. He retired a year ago after a long career as Paramedic. He unfortunately had to work 2 years past his planned retirement date due to union changes and covid. All the time keeping a smile on his face and remaining positive about the job he loved! Until his illness, he still stayed active on multiple boards, working in the private sector to bring in a little side money so his wife could retire, and he could semi-retire. As of this post, he is currently undergoing treatments for his cancer. With the cost of his medication (not completely covered) and his inability to work during this period, his wife has had to come out of retirement. You’d never know by talking to him that they are struggling, however I had the chance to meet Jim just last week and with the rising cost of living, PLUS his illness, there is definitely a struggle.

The name Jim Brown is well known through the province. He has done amazing things to advance paramedics through his work with PANB, Health and wellness, a didactic instructor and preceptor. He’s has answered the call to help many times as a respected member of the Paramedic Honor Guard. Many of us owe a great debt to this man for all he has done on a global scale and, for many of us on a personal level.

I have setup a GoFundMe account, without his knowledge (or consent for that matter LOL). My goal is to keep this a surprise for them. There may be other fundraisers as well, stay tuned. For those that know Jim on a personal level, know he’s a proud man and he’s usually the one to give/help out. This time he needs our help. I understand that the cost of living has risen and many of us have felt this burden. Any donation is helpful, and I know it will mean the world to Jim and his wife Bea. Thank you!