For years, Montgomery residents have known Chris Newman as their local veterinarian. Today, they might encounter her in a different role — responding to a medical emergency as a volunteer EMT with Montgomery EMS (MEMS).
Newman had considered joining the squad for years, but running a veterinary practice left little time for volunteering. As she began easing into retirement, she finally found the opportunity.
Her medical background was helpful during EMT training, but she particularly remembers the support from fellow volunteers. Experienced members offered study advice, practiced skills with her, and encouraged her along the way. “They’re a great, great team,” she says.
Newman’s first memorable encounter with Montgomery EMS actually came years before she joined. Her mother, who was living in Montgomery at the time, had been involved in a minor car accident. When Newman arrived and stepped into the ambulance, she was surprised to recognize the responders. They were her clients and neighbors.
That experience took on new meaning after she joined. “I just took for granted that if you dial 911, someone’s going to show up and help you out,” she recalls. She hadn’t fully appreciated that Montgomery’s emergency medical services are provided entirely by volunteers — people who could be your friends, neighbors, or even your veterinarian.
“I just took for granted that if you dial 911, someone’s going to show up and help you out.”
One emergency particularly reinforced the importance of their work. Newman responded to a call involving a man with chest pain. He was walking, talking, and reluctant to go to the hospital. While the crew was evaluating him and encouraging him to seek treatment, he suddenly went into cardiac arrest. The responders immediately began resuscitation efforts, working alongside paramedics. Their efforts were successful, and Newman later learned that the patient survived and was discharged from the hospital.
As a member of Montgomery’s Board of Health, Newman has also gained a different perspective on the community’s needs. She sees residents struggling with chronic illnesses, limited transportation, or inadequate support at home. She believes Montgomery would benefit from a dedicated social services department to help these residents before their situations become emergencies. While EMS responds whenever called, better social support could address underlying needs and help preserve emergency resources for urgent situations.
Today, Newman balances part-time veterinary work, travel, and other interests with regular EMS shifts, volunteering additional time whenever possible.
Her advice to residents considering volunteering? Find a commitment that fits your schedule and give it a try. She believes many more Montgomery residents would make excellent volunteers.
After a career caring for Montgomery’s animals, Newman has found another rewarding way to care for her community.
