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LIANE SMITH

lesmith@bonitanews.com

 Age: 34

 Profession: Lieutenant/paramedic for the Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District

 Hometown/residence: Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, moved to Bonita Springs when he was 7 years old. Joined the United States Navy in 1992 when he turned 18 and returned home to Bonita Springs in 1996.

THE BANNER: How long have you been a firefighter?

Eric Madden: Ten years as a paramedic and seven as a firefighter.

TB: What’s a typical day like on the job?

EM: Someone once said that being a firefighter was dealing with extreme boredom interrupted by moments of intense chaos. So during the down time we stay busy by training for that intense chaos.

TB: What need did you see while on the job?

EM: Over the past few years, as our retirement community has increased, the need for alternative transportation for our community has also increased. I’ve lost count of how many times we’ve gone lights and sirens screaming down the road just to find someone who wasn’t having an emergency but only needed a ride. For example: The doctors in our area have to advise their patients to call 9-1-1, sending them to the Emergency Room in an ambulance for non-emergency related illnesses. These patients were unable to drive themselves, or their loved ones, to the doctor’s office. Calling 9-1-1 was their only alternative. This is very expensive and inconvenient for our retirees. It also ties up our EMS system, which should be available for true emergencies.

TB: How did you transform that need into your new venture?

EM: Fortunately for me, every day I get a first hand look at the transportation needs of this community. Therefore, I was able to provide what was needed. Whether you need a wheelchair, or a stretcher, you’ll receive a timely, safe, and much less expensive, one-on-one transport with a Florida state certified paramedic.

TB: Who can use your transport company?

EM: Anyone can use Gulf Coast Non Emergency Transport. If you need a ride to and from your appointments, the airport, birthday parties, anything. If you feel that traditional means of transportation are inconvenient or impossible, then you should definitely give us a call. We would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

TB: How much does an ambulance run cost a patient, and how much does Gulf Coast Non Emergency Transport charge?

EM: An ambulance ride one way is just under $900. Even with good insurance you’re still paying almost half of that out of pocket, and you still need to find a way home. We charge between $120 — $200 for a round trip where we pick you up, drop you off, wait for you, and take you home. Also, most insurance companies will reimburse you for non-emergency transport.

TB: Is it difficult running a business and being a firefighter?

EM: I wouldn’t say difficult, definitely stressful. Before, when I came home from a 24-hour shift I had a couple of days to recover. Now it’s straight from the fire house back into the daily grind of owning a business. Firefighters are taught daily how to handle stress, so it’s not that bad.

TB: What do you like best about both your jobs?

EM: The appreciation, the pat on the back, when a total stranger looks you in the eyes and says, “thank you,” and actually means it. The pride I feel when I walk into a public place with my uniform on. The feeling I get knowing I’m part of a tradition. Knowing that you have the knowledge and ability to make a difference in someone’s life. Remembering the first time I shook a man’s hand three months after I saved his life.

TB: How do you contact the transport company?

EM: You can call our local number at 825-1350 or e-mail us for information at info@gcnetransport.com Also our Web site will be up and running very soon at www.gcnetransport.com.