The Ripon Consolidated Fire District praised the recent efforts of the crew consisting of on-duty Captain Josh Bodeson and newly hired firefighter / paramedics Jason Hill.

Last week, they responded to a critical medical emergency that “underscored the importance of prompt action and specialized training in saving lives,” RCFD said Wednesday on social media.

At about 1:33 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 11, Wendy Hoogenboorn arrived at Station 1 with her husband, Kenny, who was experiencing chest pain along with jaw pain and nausea – she recognized the severity of his symptoms, stopping at the downtown fire station enroute to the hospital.

The crew of Bodeson and Hill quickly responded, attending to Kenny Hoogenboorn, who suffered a heart attack – the inferior myocardial infarction is also known as the ‘widow maker’ with the main artery being 100 percent blocked, according to RCFD, referring to a later post on the incident by the family.

“The fire district team sprang into action, administering critical medications and preparing Kenny for rapid transport to a nearby hospital. Thanks to their swift response and professional care, Kenny was quickly delivered to the cardiac catheterization lab for further treatment,” said RCFD.

Hoogenboorn and his wife, Wendy, returned to Station 1 on Wednesday, this time to thank those for their life-saving efforts. He continues his road to recovery.

“The successful outcome in this incident highlights the vital role that firefighting and paramedic personnel play in the community as first responders. The quick action and specialized training of firefighter / paramedic Hill and the other district personnel were instrumental in saving Kenny’s life,” RCFD added.