Alberta's first responders are paying tribute to their friend and colleague after he suddenly died while on duty in Airdrie on Dec. 18.
Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA), the union that represents the province's paramedics, said the cause of the advanced-care paramedic's death at the Airdrie Urgent Care Centre Saturday was cardiac arrest.
"My heart breaks for the loss of a colleague and friend," wrote HSAA president Mike Parker. "I wish to express my deepest condolences to the family and all the friends and colleagues feeling this loss."
Colleagues identified the deceased as 43-year-old Mike Hart in a series of tributes posted on social media.
Redwood Meadows Emergency Services posted photos of Hart with the phrase "rest easy" on their social media pages.
"Mike Hart will be remembered as one of the best, respected by all," said Canmore Firefighters Association, noting he previously worked there. "Rest easy, Mike. Gone too soon."
His LinkedIn profile indicates he's held his paramedic permit since 2002 and has worked across the province in various positions both as a paramedic and firefighter.
Reports indicate there was no ambulance in the region to respond to the urgent care centre highlighting the ongoing issue of ambulance availability in Alberta communities.
Alberta EMS Advisory and Advocacy Coalition (AEAAC) noted while there was no ambulance to transport Hart to Calgary, "He was very well cared for (by) the staff at Airdrie Urgent Care Centre."
"The ambulance likely would not have saved him, but if there were a chance, a 30-minute response time in a community that has their ambulances sent to Calgary is just irresponsible," AEAAC said in a tweet.
Alberta Health Services said a "shortage of resources did not play a factor in the care and treatment our colleague received,"
"AHS is saddened by the tragic and unexpected death of a colleague and friend," a statement from the health authority reads. "We send our deepest sympathies to this paramedic's family, friends and colleagues."
EMS professionals needing assistance are encouraged to utilize the Employee & Family Assistance program or contact the EMS Provincial Peer Support line at 403-888-5181.
