On the evening of February 24, 2025, a routine drive turned into a critical emergency when a driver became unresponsive behind the wheel. Thanks to the quick thinking of his family, the vehicle was safely guided to the side of the road. An Emergency Communications Specialist, recognizing the severity of the situation, promptly initiated a breathing diagnostic and determined that CPR was necessary and the family immediately began compressions.

Shortly after, Emergency Medical Services, including a fire engine, an ambulance and a paramedic team, arrived on scene. Intern Joshua Ogongi was part of the team that arrived to render aide. The team swiftly removed the patient from the vehicle, continued CPR, and applied a heart monitor. The patient was then defibrillated, giving him a fighting chance at survival.

This powerful chain of survival — from family's quick action, to the expertise of Frederick County, MD 911, to the rapid response of EMS — made all the difference.

We are proud and grateful for every hero who stepped in when it mattered most. We are especially proud of Frederick County Public High School Work Based Learning Intern Joshua Ogongi being on this team. Joshua has learned emergency patient care and skills throughout this year while attending the high school work-based learning program at the Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility. Joshua joined as a volunteer to participate in this program. He has been a leader in class and exceling on the job. His dedication to learning and helping others has made him our 2024-2025 Intern class hero.

If you are interested in attending this program, please contact Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue at VFRSIntern@FrederickCountyMD.gov or your high school work-based learning coordinator.