First responders rally for downed medic, seek public’s help

The EMS community and first responders of all sectors are uniting to help a medic with a serious health issue, and are asking for the public’s support.  Thirty-one year EMS professional Brandon Smith, 46, a paramedic residing in Pomona, in Rockland County, was found unresponsive on January 2, 2025, after suffering a brain aneurysm.

After a fellow paramedic discovered him on Thursday, he was transported to a local hospital where he was stabilized before being transported to Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla where he underwent emergency surgery.  His recovery is expected to be a lengthy process.

Smith has been credited with saving dozens of lives during his career, according to colleagues.

Smith’s clinical experience ranges from the South Bronx to Albany County.

Brandon completed his undergraduate degree in Liberal Studies at SUNY Purchase and completed his master’s in Education at Dominican University. Currently, Brandon is an adjunct assistant professor at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. He is also an adjunct faculty member at both Rockland and Westchester Community Colleges.

Smith, an employee of the New Paltz Rescue Squad, began his education path in 1999 when he began working as a lab assistant for the Rockland County EMS Academy before becoming a state-certified instructor coordinator in 2007. His speaking engagements include past Pulse Check EMS conferences, the University at Albany, Binghamton University, and Good Samaritan Hospital. Brandon obtained his EMT certification in 1996, and then his paramedic in 2011.

On December 7, 2024, Paramedic Smith presented on the topic of  “Strokes and Bleeds” to more than 120 members of the EMS community.

Brandon who suffered a brain aneurysm a few years ago, used his first-hand experience and taught the audience about brain bleeds. The presentation was well received by all who attended. “Brandon really taught a perfect lecture,” said Ulster County EMS Council President Jeff Ashdown. “Using a personal experience to teach providers to be better clinicians is priceless. We hope the public will come out and support Brandon like he has supported the public for the last 31 years.” Ulster County EMS Council President Jeff Ashdown said.

Brandon’s Chief at the New Paltz Rescue Squad, Matthew Goodnow is keeping Smith in his thoughts.  “Brandon is one of a kind. He is always looking to better providers and he treats every patient like they are family. He is a person everyone should look up to.”

On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, there will be a 10-13 Benefit Dinner for Brandon Smith at the Plattekill Fire Department at 50 Old Firehouse Road, in Wallkill, NY. The first seating will be at 6:30 p.m. the second seating will be at 8 p.m. The cost is $20 for adults and $12 for children 6-18. Children under six are free. All proceeds will go to support Paramedic Smith during his lengthy recovery.