The community of Surprise, Arizona, mourns the loss of a dedicated paramedic, Paul Johnson, who bravely battled cancer until his final days. Known as the “Paramedic of the Year,” Johnson’s life, filled with service and compassion, left a lasting impression on his family, friends, and colleagues. His legacy continues to inspire those who knew him, as they reflect on his contributions to the fire department and the deeper impact he had on everyone around him.
A Legacy of Service
Paul Johnson was more than just a paramedic; he was a hero in every sense of the word. Joining the Surprise Fire Department in 2018, he quickly became known for his exceptional skills and unwavering dedication to helping others. His colleagues fondly remember him not only for his professional achievements but also for his charismatic personality and the warmth he brought to the team. The “PJ Strong” sticker now adorning his ambulance serves as a symbol of his strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
Recognition as Paramedic of the Year
In June, Johnson received the prestigious title of “Paramedic of the Year,” an accolade that showcased the high esteem in which he was held by his peers. During the award ceremony, he expressed surprise and gratitude, acknowledging the fierce competition and the remarkable skill of his fellow paramedics. This recognition came mere months after he learned about his stage four cancer diagnosis, highlighting his steadfast spirit and commitment to his vocation despite facing personal challenges.
The Impact of His Battle with Cancer
Paul Johnson’s battle with cancer was unexpected and swift, leaving his family and the Surprise Fire Department reeling. As he faced such a devastating illness, the support from his colleagues and community was a true testament to the relationships he had built over the years. They rallied around his family, providing meals, support during doctor’s visits, and help with daily tasks. Firefighter Damian Wallis expressed the sentiment shared by many, stating, “We’re not going to forget. We’re going to be there for them, support them for the long haul.”
Family First
Despite the challenges he faced, Johnson always prioritized his family, which included his wife and three young children. His ability to remain positive during his illness was remarkable, often lifting the spirits of those around him even as he dealt with his own struggles. Colleagues describe moments spent with him, including the last time they took him home from the hospital in the very ambulance he used to save lives, creating a bond that transcended his professional role.
Reflections and Mourning
In the wake of his passing, family, friends, and colleagues have come together to honor and reflect on the profound impact Johnson had on their lives. His friend and co-worker, Dan Anderson, shared that Johnson’s legacy would be difficult to replace and that he would always be remembered for his dedication and kindness. The loss of Johnson not only affected his immediate family but also resonated deeply within the entire fire department, as he was a beloved member who always pushed everyone to be their best.
Conclusion of a Hero’s Journey
As members of the Surprise community mourn the loss of Paul Johnson, they also celebrate the incredible life he lived. His spirit as a paramedic, husband, and father remains alive in the hearts of those who cherished him. The community is coming together to support his family during this time of grief, including through fundraising efforts aimed at relieving some of the burdens they face. Paul Johnson’s legacy of love, service, and resilience will continue to inspire many long after his passing.
SURPRISE, AZ (AZFamily) — Beloved Surprise Fire Department “Paramedic of the Year” Paul Johnson died from cancer this week.
He will be deeply missed, and his impact can be seen on his ambulance, with a “PJ Strong” sticker and a mourning band honoring him as a fallen hero.
“We miss him, we love him, and we’ll never forget him,” said firefighter Damian Wallis.
Wallis and everybody part of Surprise Fire are grieving the loss of one of their own.
Arizona’s Family met him at the ceremony in June as he humbly accepted the award.
“Surprised. There’s a lot of great competition. I work with some fantastic, fantastic paramedics,” Johnson said then.
This was just a couple of months after the husband and father of three learned he had stage four cancer.
“Not much one to cry, but I got a little teary,” he told Arizona’s Family at the ceremony. “Things were racing through my head like mortgages and bills and, you know, dealing with my children who are 11, 9 and 6. You know, we’ve got big news and life’s gonna change.”
His fellow firefighters and medics rallied around his family, bringing them meals, taking him to doctor’s appointments, and helping with yard work.
“We’re not going to forget. We’re going to be there for them, support them for the long haul,” said Wallis.
The diagnosis was a shock, and his decline was quick, but those close to Johnson say he always maintained his positive and compassionate attitude.
His friend and co-worker, Dan Anderson, says that since Johnson was a civilian paramedic, he’s not eligible for presumptive health care coverage as a first responder with cancer.
“He’s been staged sometimes in front of fires, has inhaled smoke. He has a cancer diagnosis, but unfortunately since he’s a civilian he’s not protected under the same laws,” said Anderson.
Right before he passed away, his fire station 301 crew took him home from the hospital in the same ambulance Johnson rode in countless times to save others.
“I can just remember Paul just kind of sitting on the gurney kind of just looking at the sky, you know, looking up at the blue sky. We all took a little moment together,” said Anderson.
“He goes, ‘Hey D, I love you man.’ I said, ‘I love you too, brother,’” said Wallis, recalling their last conversation.
Johnson joined the department in 2018, and his legacy will be long-lasting.
“It’s gonna be a huge loss to our department that we’re never going to be able to replace,” said Anderson.
Not only did his wife Bre lose her husband, but the next day, she lost her father.
GoFundMe has been set up to help Johnson’s family.
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FAQ
What impact did Paul Johnson have on his community as a paramedic?
Paul Johnson was recognized as the “Paramedic of the Year,” reflecting his commitment to saving lives and providing quality care to those in need. His legacy is evident through the support he received from colleagues and the community he served.
How can people support the family of the fallen paramedic?
Many individuals can contribute by donating to funds established to assist Johnson’s family, as well as providing emotional and practical support during this challenging time.
What can be done to help first responders battling cancer?
It’s essential to advocate for better health care policies that support first responders, especially civilians like Paul Johnson, who may not have access to the same health coverage protections as their firefighter counterparts.
How does the community typically respond to a fallen first responder?
The community often comes together to honor and remember fallen first responders through acts of kindness, meals, and gatherings that celebrate the contributions of the individual while supporting their grieving families.
What challenges do paramedics face concerning health insurance and benefits?
Paramedics, particularly those who are civilians, may face significant difficulties in accessing health insurance and benefits, including presumptive health care for occupational illnesses such as cancer, which can lead to financial and emotional strain during health crises.
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