First Responders Update

Over the past three weeks, I’ve received nearly two dozen phone calls, emails, and texts from people who live on Skidaway Island. The stories shared with me, which I can’t specifically share all the details because of HIPAA, are not only alarming but heartbreaking.

There have been so many people who called 911 and no one answered OR they got through to 911 yet no one came to render aid in a timely manner. A gentleman who lives a street next to mine was choking. Had the Skidaway Island First Responders (SIFR) been alerted, I could have been to his home within a minute. His wife ended up helping him, and he had a happy ending. (He gave me permission to share this incident.) He is livid and is actively reaching out to Chatham County officials sharing his story.

All that to say, we are at a crossroads. Please be reassured that the SIFR team is working tirelessly to get back into action so that we can help not only the community but the paid personnel. Our job always has been one that adds value. Skidaway Island as a whole is made up of nearly 10,000 people, which includes two senior living facilities. This entire situation is mind-blowing. The people making the decision to stop our services have lost sight of what our mission has always been -- TO HELP SAVE LIVES.

Please be patient with our team. Although much of what we are doing is behind the scenes, we are still fighting for our right to serve this community as we have for nearly 44 years. When this organization was formed, the goal was to help render aid to those who need it while waiting for the paid professionals to arrive. We hope to find a resolution to continue with the mission a small group started so long ago.

Stay safe out there.