Deaf Awareness Week: “You’ve shown me what’s possible” – medic thanks mentor

A deaf London Ambulance Service medic has presented her prized England rugby shirt to her mentor in a heartfelt thank you for his support.

Emergency Medical Technician Zoe Cox has earned five international caps for England Deaf Women while also pursuing a demanding career with the ambulance service.

Discovering she was deaf

Zoe only discovered she was deaf during the COVID-19 pandemic, when mask-wearing made lip-reading impossible.

From that moment, deaf paramedic Richard Webb Stevens helped her navigate her diagnosis and career with confidence.

When presenting him with the shirt – the first one she wore for England – she thanked him for his mentorship.

True role model

She said: “You’ve not only been a constant source of reassurance and strength, but also a true role model for the deaf community – showing what’s possible with compassion, dedication, and leadership.

“Your understanding, guidance, and encouragement – both professionally and personally – have made a lasting difference, and I’m truly grateful.”

The pair were reunited in an emotional and joyful meeting at the start of Deaf Awareness Week.

In 2020 Zoe was found to have severe hearing loss in both ears and now wears hearing aids.

She had spent her entire life relying on lip-reading, visual clues and body language. She regularly got in to trouble at school.

Sporting success

But in sport, it didn’t matter that she was deaf. She excelled in football and then rugby, earning her first cap with England Deaf Women’s Rugby Union in August 2024.

Despite her success on the field, Zoe feared being deaf could threaten the job she loved, working on ambulances and treating patients.

However her mentor Richard, a paramedic of 27 years, gave her hope.

Richard was born with profound hearing loss. He tried to apply for a job in the British Army but was rejected for being deaf. London Ambulance Service gave him a chance.

Distinguished service

Richard went on to become the first deaf paramedic in the UK to work on an air ambulance. He now serves as a motorcycle paramedic.

In 2022, Richard was awarded the Queen’s Ambulance Medal for distinguished service. As well as his dedication to patients, he has inspired and supported others in the deaf community to pursue roles in the emergency services.

Ambassador for the deaf community

Richard said: “I’ve seen Zoe thrive in the ambulance service and in her rugby. I’m hugely proud of her – she’s achieving so much.

“She is an incredible ambassador for the deaf community and the ambulance service. And I am overwhelmed by her gift to me – I’m a massive rugby fan so this is perfect.”

Deaf Awareness Week celebrates the experiences and contributions of deaf people, while raising awareness of the barriers they can face in everyday life.

To find out more about opportunities to work at London Ambulance Service visit our careers pages.