Doctors Hospital of Augusta hosted a luncheon on May 22 to honor the dedicated Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers across the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). The event was held as part of EMS Appreciation Week, which highlights the vital role these professionals play in keeping communities safe.
Attending EMS workers enjoyed lunch, music and special recognition for their work.

Hurricane work efforts recognized
“We love to host this luncheon and just recognize the great work that they do,” said Joanna Comley, CEO of Doctors Hospital. “It is especially important this year as we know that our first responders were there to support our community right after Hurricane Helene so we wanted to have the opportunity to rec them and the great work that they do.”
All EMS worker attendees were gifted a challenge coin to recognize sacrifices made in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.

‘These guys are heroes’
Gary Coker, president and founder of Central EMS, said that being a “people person” is crucial for becoming an emergency medical technician. “You’ve got to care about the people,” he said.
“These guys are heroes, they really go out and put their lives on the line,” Coker said. “They all get to come together here and see each other. It’s a wonderful thing. When they get to have this type of event, they get to sit down and really enjoy each other’s company.”