Hero’s Welcome
The ambulance doors opened and hundreds of friends, family members and supporters cheered to welcome Chris Doyle back into the community. The welcome seemed a bit overwhelming for the shy 22 year-old Port St. Lucie resident who lost his lower left leg when the ambulance in which the EMT was riding was hit by an SUV a few weeks ago. After greeting a few friends and answering a few questions for television reporters, Doyle had one simple request – a slice of pizza.
After learning about the events that led to such a change in the young IRSC grad’s situation, Scott Van Duzer of the Van Duzer Foundation quickly organized a benefit to help assist Doyle and his family with the additional expenses and financial burden. Wednesday, March 24th from 4 p.m. to closing, one hundred percent of all food and beverages sold at Van Duzer’s Big Apple Pizza and Pasta in Fort Pierce were donated to Chris Doyle. Even the staff donated their salaries and tips for the evening.
Volunteers roamed the parking lot as friends caught up with co-workers and neighbors they hadn’t seen in a while, or made new acquaintances there to support Doyle and his family. Local businesses and Doyle’s co- workers from All-County Ambulance were on hand to share the celebration, and members of IRSC’s Fire Science Class came out to support one of their own. By the end of the evening, $9,160 had been raised to help Doyle, who insists that, once finished with additional surgeries and fitted with a prosthesis, he will continue to work towards helping his community and saving lives as an EMT/Paramedic. And, while he was not comfortable being in the spotlight, Doyle said he was touched by the support and kindness of the community.
Since its inception in April, 2008, the Van Duzer Foundation has donated over $175,000 to St. Lucie County families and individuals. If you’d like to help Chris Doyle, please contact Scott Van Duzer at (772) 528-3467.