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Margate presents inaugural Phoenix awards to dispatcher and rescue crew after cardiac save
Summary
Margate officials honored a BSO dispatcher and Margate Fire Rescue crew for a bystander's CPR and successful resuscitation that restored pulses at the scene. The awards recognize coordinated dispatch, bystander care and EMS teamwork in a life-saving call.
Margate honored the first recipients of its new "Phoenix Award" on April 1, recognizing a coordinated cardiac-rescue in which a resident started hands-only CPR before EMS arrived.
Fire Chief Roberto Lorenzo introduced the rescue crew and said the award "represents far more than a successful resuscitation" and highlights "preparation, teamwork, clinical excellence, and unwavering commitment to give every patient their very best chance at life." He specifically recognized Broward Sheriff's Office dispatcher Yohanna Gonzalez for her calm, decisive 911 work and the department crew for restoring pulses.
Anthony Gallo, the bystander whose CPR helped at the outset, told the commission, "I had absolutely no idea that this was gonna happen ... I'm truly humbled." Firefighter-paramedic Sierra Jajuria said the crew trains constantly and praised the coordinated response: "We worked very well on this code." Lieutenant Danny Kuhar and firefighter-paramedic Jared Rose also received awards.
Mayor Serio and Assistant Fire Chief Matt Weichield presented the awards and invited the family and crew to the dais. The commission used the recognition to underscore that effective dispatch, bystander action and EMS continuity together produce the best survival outcomes. The commission paused for photos and community appreciation following the presentation.
