Today we welcome Lliam Richmond, newest addition to the AMS family. Lliam relocated from the City of Gold to join the Cape Town team in June. Here’s a look into his world.
Who is Lliam Richmond? “I was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa. I attended St. Stithians College from a young age. After matriculating in 2012, I completed a Bachelors Degree of Health Sciences in Emergency Medical Care at the University of Johannesburg, graduating at the end of 2016. Once qualified, I worked at ER24 Johannesburg North branch for two and a half years, from the beginning of 2017 until June 2019. In June 2019, I was offered a position as Flight Paramedic at the Red Cross Air Mercy Service and relocated to Cape Town. At the beginning of 2019, I enrolled for my Masters of Philosophy in Emergency Medicine at the University of Cape Town, which I hope to complete in the next two to three years.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No, I started studying towards my degree after high school and have been involved in emergency medical services ever since.”
Why did you choose to join the AMS? “I found out about the AMS towards the end of my studies (2015/2016) and have aspired to work for such a service since then. Furthermore, I have a passion for aero-medicine and the critical care environment. I am excited for this next chapter and what it has in store, both its challenges and experiences.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “To kite surf or fly a helicopter.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Apart from working on my Masters, I enjoy taking time to relax, socialise and spend quality time with friends and family.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I have a fascination with helicopters and hope to obtain my own helicopters pilots license in the future.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “Working as a paramedic can be highly fulfilling, yet it can have its drawbacks. What I enjoy most is when we can make a difference in someone’s life, from as little as comforting a child at the scene of an accident to working hard to stabilise a critical ill or injured patient. It’s the difference we can make that makes it all worth it.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “They typically applaud the work that is done by paramedics and this is followed by two common questions, how do you do it? and what is the worst thing you’ve ever seen? Overall, people are rather impressed with the work we do and are exceptionally grateful.”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “There have been many days that I consider the happiest day(s) of my life, I would struggle to choose one.
What is your greatest indulgence? “Sushi.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “My family.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “I am passionate and driven.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “I’ve been fortunate to receive many pieces of advice over the years, which have aided my growth and development as a person and practitioner.”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Love what you do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”
