SDG COUNTIES, Ontario - Cornwall SDG Paramedic Services is proud to welcome a new group of 18 paramedic recruits who began their orientation and training on May 5.
Their arrival marks a critical step in addressing staffing gaps and enhancing emergency medical services across the City of Cornwall and SDG Counties.
As part of their onboarding, the new paramedics will complete a comprehensive four-week Orientation and Training Program. This includes in-depth instruction in Policies and Procedures, Health and Safety, Driver and Vehicle Training, Equipment Familiarization, and preparation for provincial certification.
The announcement coincides with Paramedic Services Week (May 18–24, 2025) - a time to celebrate and recognize the dedication and service of our frontline healthcare professionals.
"Paramedic Services Week gives us the opportunity to recognize and show our gratitude to our dedicated Paramedics who serve our community," said Mayor Justin Towndale. "I would like to welcome our new recruits and to thank our currently serving paramedics, notably those who are receiving their Cornwall SDG Paramedic Service Decorations this year," said Mayor Justin Towndale, City of Cornwall.
“These new recruits not only bring fresh energy and skills to our service, but they also represent the continued strength and evolution of our regional paramedic workforce,” said Warden Martin Lang, SDG Counties. “We're excited to see them grow into their roles as trusted healthcare providers in our community. Thank you to the paramedics for making a commitment to our entire region, to make families, visitors and residents safer and more secure.”
Chief of Paramedic Services, Bill Lister added: “Bringing in new medics helps us continue to deliver high-quality emergency care. Our thorough training program ensures they are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the job and serve our residents with professionalism and compassion.”
During this year’s Paramedic Services Week, several dedicated members of the Cornwall SDG Paramedic Services will also be honoured for their years of distinguished service. The Paramedic Service Decoration, established in 2022 to mirror the Canadian Forces Decoration, is awarded for long service and good conduct.
2025 Recipients:
12 Years – Medal
- Keely Beckstead
- Kaitlin Hendriks
22 Years – First Bar
- Brian Dufresne
- Luc Lavigne
These awards reflect more than just years of service. They are a testament to the dedication, compassion, and resilience shown by paramedics who show up, day after day, for people in their most vulnerable moments.
Behind the scenes, our Logistics Clerks, Community Paramedics, and Administrative Staff also play a vital role in keeping operations running, ensuring vehicles and equipment are ready, supporting at-home care, and coordinating daily services.
As we recognize Paramedic Services Week, the City of Cornwall and SDG Counties offer sincere thanks to all our paramedics, from those just starting their journey to those who have spent decades answering the call. Their dedication has a lasting impact on the health and safety of our communities.