For first responders, compassion is no accident
“It’s going to be okay,” Firefighter Respicio said to the young girl holding tight to her pink backpack. The little girl’s brother just had a seizure, and her mother and brother were busy with the doctors.
Firefighter Respicio stood and offered his hand to the girl and they began strolling the hospital halls to keep her positively distracted while her brother was receiving treatment.
For Firefighter Respicio, and many first responders, providing emotional support to family members during difficult times is just as important as caring for those with injuries.
Emergencies are a frightening experience for most, and even more so for those who can’t make sense of these situations, such as young children. Providing comfort and understanding can make the difference for any age.
“For the 16 years I’ve known Andrew [Firefighter/Paramedic Respicio], he has unyieldingly been compassionate, skilled, and dedicated to the people and community he serves,” said his wife Winnie. “They are always at the forefront of his every move. The job is not always easy. It can challenge even the strongest-willed person, but he does it without hesitation and with heart.”
About Andrew Respicio
Andrew is a Firefighter/Paramedic for the Monterey Park Fire Department and has been a member of F&A Federal Credit Union for 23 years. His wife, Winnie Respicio, nominated him for F&A’s Member Heroism Campaign as she has witnessed his unwavering dedication to families in the community.
