On Monday, October 27, 2025, first responders gathered to mark a milestone – the tenth annual Survivor Night ceremony. Hosted by Northumberland County, this event is dedicated to honouring the incredible stories of heartbeats restored following cardiac arrest and the teamwork that makes these stories possible.
This year, 85 first responders were formally recognized for their lifesaving efforts in the successful resuscitation of 14 individuals experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in 2024. This event was also an opportunity to reconnect some of the survivors and their families with first responders who played critical roles during their emergencies.
Survivors like Wilfred Vienot—who suddenly collapsed in his home one day. Bystanders quickly recognized the emergency, called 9-1-1, and began CPR. Neighbours, friends, Ambulance Communications Officers, Firefighters, and Paramedics worked together seamlessly – a collaboration that ultimately saved his life. Wilfred was able to attend Survivor Night this year and join officials on stage to present his neighbours and first responders with certificates of recognition. His story reminds us of the power of the Chain of Survival – how every link in the chain, from community member to first responder, can contribute to turning tragedy into triumph.
“Every life saved is a powerful reminder of the dedication and skill of our first responders, as well as the courage and quick action of community members,” says Northumberland Paramedics Chief Susan Brown. “Survivor Night is a celebration of these extraordinary moments and the hope they bring. It also underscores the importance of the Chain of Survival – from recognizing cardiac arrest and calling 9-1-1, to preforming CPR and using a community Automated External Defibrillator (AED), to the involvement of first responders with their training and expertise. Each link in that chain is vital to saving lives.”
Northumberland County Warden Brian Ostrander echoed this sentiment stating: “Survivor Night is an opportunity to recognize that behind every life saved is a network of people who acted with courage and care when it mattered most. Every story shared tonight reminds us that readiness and resilience start long before an emergency happens — in the partnerships, the training, and the trust we build together.”
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Survivor Wilfred Vienot (ninth from left, front row), together with first responders from Lindsay Central Ambulance Communications Centre, Cobourg Fire Department, and Northumberland Paramedics, along with neighbours and friends, all of whom—through quick action and collaboration—saved his life after he suffered a cardiac arrest in 2024.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
