On Monday, February 2, 2026, shortly after 3:00 p.m., full-time paramedic partners Mya Nichols and Zoraiz Rehman of Hastings-Quinte Paramedic Services — and proud members of CUPE 1842, where Zoriaz currently serves as President — were travelling southbound on Highway 62 after providing emergency coverage in Bancroft.

At the intersection of Highway 62 and Highway 7 in Madoc, their ambulance was T-boned by a tractor trailer. Mya, who was driving, took the full force of the impact to the driver’s side door.

Mya and Zoraiz were the victims of this collision and sustained serious injuries as a result.

Mya was rendered unconscious at the scene and sustained critical injuries. Zoraiz suffered severe injuries but was able to self-extricate, call 9-1-1, and — in a true testament to his character and unwavering dedication to service — ensure that the two occupants of the tractor trailer involved were safe.

For those unfamiliar with the area, this rural intersection can mean prolonged response times if the local ambulance is already committed and resources are being shifted to maintain coverage. On this day, someone was looking out for them. Another HQPS crew was only five minutes behind them returning from Bancroft. Members of the Ontario Provincial Police Central Hastings detachment, located mere meters away, responded immediately and called for expedited emergency personnel and ORNGE air ambulance support.

What followed is something no first responder ever expects: paramedics providing life-saving care to their own partners, colleagues, and friends.

Under unimaginable stress and heartbreak, every responder on scene demonstrated extraordinary strength, skill, and professionalism. Because of their rapid and exceptional care, both medics were transported to Belleville General Hospital where they were stabilized. Mya was then airlifted to Kingston General Hospital, while Zoraiz was transported there by land, once again in the care of his peers, so they could both receive advanced trauma care.

As of February 4, Zoraiz has been discharged from hospital, but he faces a long and difficult recovery. He has sustained multiple spinal fractures, internal injuries, and severe contusions. Beyond the physical trauma, he carries the emotional weight of not only being injured himself, but witnessing his paramedic partner in critical condition.

Mya remains in critical condition in the ICU. She suffered multiple small brain bleeds, which have miraculously stopped on their own. Her intracranial pressures are being closely monitored and remain stable. While there is still uncertainty surrounding the full extent of her injuries, she has already made meaningful progress — giving her family, friends, and our entire CUPE 1842 and HQPS family cautious but real hope.

This is an incredibly challenging time for Mya, Zoraiz, and their families. Alongside the emotional toll, there are significant and unexpected financial pressures as a result of this devastating collision.

This GoFundMe has been created with the full permission of both families to help offset these expenses and allow them to focus on healing — physically, emotionally, and mentally — without the added burden of financial strain. All funds raised will be divided equally (50/50) between them.

Both Mya and Zoraiz are phenomenal paramedics. But more importantly, they are extraordinary human beings. They lead with compassion. They serve with integrity. They show up for strangers on the worst days of their lives without hesitation. They would both give the shirt off their backs to anyone in need — and countless times, they have.

Now, it is our turn to show up for them.

The response of support from our community, fellow first responders, friends, and even complete strangers has been overwhelming and deeply appreciated. The messages, prayers, outreach, and acts of kindness have meant more than words can express.

Many have asked how they can help. We humbly ask that if you are able, you consider contributing financially to support them during this difficult time. If you are not in a position to donate, sharing their story and this fundraiser is equally meaningful.

We will provide updates as the families feel comfortable doing so. In the meantime, we ask that you continue to keep Mya, Zoraiz, their families, their friends, and our entire CUPE 1842/HQPS family in your thoughts.

Thank you for standing behind the people who have always stood for this community.