National Emergency Medical Services Week is a time to honor the live-saving efforts of first responders.

Executive Director of Pella Community Ambulance Greg Higginbotham tells KNIA/KRLS News he’s thankful to all who serve as paramedics and volunteer EMS personnel. Higginbotham says the profession is challenging and requires a great deal of sacrifice for all who participate. Higginbotham says EMS work is a team effort, which in Pella, includes the assistance of Pella Police and Fire Department personnel, as well as numerous agencies throughout the county and region. In 2017, Pella Ambulance responded to 1760 calls and traveled over 67,000 miles for medical and trauma calls, as well as transfers of patients to various medical facilities.