Jupiter Medical Center hosted an emotional ceremony on Wednesday, June 14, to dedicate the emergency medical services (EMS) lounge in the hospital’s emergency room to the memory of two local EMS workers who died tragically when their ambulance was involved in an accident with a drunk driver. More than 100 people attended to pay tribute to Paul Besaw and Lahiri Garcia, longtime employees of American Medical Response (AMR), who were killed on June 1 in the violent crash on Indiantown Road. The men’s families, dozens of hospital team members, along with the broader EMS and first responder community were present.
Paul and Lahiri were remembered as heroes for their dedication to their patients and the safety of the greater community. A number of people spoke as part of the tribute including: John Couris, President and CEO of Jupiter Medical Center; Joe Robertson, a Jupiter Medical Center emergency department paramedic who also worked for AMR and was a good friend of both the victims; Daryl Ilardi, AMR paramedic; Kevin Meehan, AMR Field Supervisor; Melissa Livingstone and Debbie Cochran, LPN, both Jupiter Medical Center team members; and Paul Besaw’s father, Bob Besaw, who was joined by his granddaughter Alison Besaw.
Paul Besaw and Lahiri Garcia were well known at Jupiter Medical Center. Paul was a former Jupiter Medical Center team member in the emergency department, as was his father, who worked there until his retirement. Paul’s mother currently works at Jupiter Medical Center in the operating room. Both Paul and Lahiri will be deeply missed in the community.
