Doctors Hospital recognizes EMS workers from across the CSRA

Gold Cross workers at Doctors Hospital's EMS worker appreciation luncheon. Pictured left to right: Taylor Evans, Lawrence Lloyd and Apple Bert. Staff photo by Erin Weeks.

Date: May 25, 2025

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.

Pictured left to right: Leigh Coker, Doctors Hospital EMS coordinator Darryl Davis and president and founder of Central EMS Gary Coker. Staff photo by Erin Weeks.

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. 

A challenge coin was presented to EMS workers at Doctors Hospital on May 22 to recognize their role during Hurricane Helene. Staff photo by Erin Weeks.

‘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.”

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The Author

Erin Weeks is a reporter with the Augusta Press. She covers education in the CSRA. Erin is a graduate of the University of South Carolina Aiken. Her first poetry book, "Origins of My Love," was published by Bottlecap Press in 2022.

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