In April of 2019, Jonine Patton joined Lifeline Ambulance as an EMT and in no time, his infectious smile and upbeat attitude were brightening the halls and the lives of everyone he met on the job and at Lifeline. Though he had been working as a firefighter in Phoenix, Jonine chose to further his career and recently graduated Lifeline Academy’s EMT training through our partnership with the Black Fire Brigade (a local community-based organization comprised primarily of African American Firefighters, with a mission to provide EMS opportunities for the youth of Chicago).
On Wed. May 8th we were deeply saddened to learn that Jonine had been involved in a Motor Vehicle Accident. Jonine has been in a coma since the accident, though In the weeks that have followed he continues to show positive signs of progress regaining movements, facial expressions and even his signature smile. In a letter to Lifeline, Jonine’s father wrote “We are very appreciative for all the people who have visited him, prayed for us, and made donations. Please continue to keep us in your prayers. We appreciate your understanding so Jonine can continue to rest, heal, and recover…”
This summer, The Black Fire Brigade held a celebration marking their first anniversary. In attendance were Jonine’s family including his daughter Sevyn, who proudly sported her dad’s valedictorian medallion. In what was a beautiful surprise to Jonine’s family and all in attendance that evening, the first ever ambulance for the BFB was dedicated as #9 in Jonine’s honor.
On July 21 Lifeline Ambulance will be hosting their annual softball tournament for local EMT Training programs and schools. Throughout the tournament, donations will be collected in support of Jonine’s recovery fund https://www.gofundme.com/f/jonine-needs-your-help?u=22055384&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_dn_shareupdate_r At Lifeline, we strive to create a family atmosphere amongst all our staff. The support and care that continues to come from fellow employees is truly heartwarming, and we hope to be able to celebrate a complete recovery real soon with Jonine and the entire Lifeline family!