“It profoundly impacted me:” Paramedic recalls moment that inspired him to work for the ambulance service on International Paramedics Day

A paramedic who was profoundly affected by the death of a young boy killed by a motorbike was inspired to join the UK’s busiest ambulance service following the traumatic incident.

London Ambulance Service Paramedic Caleb Garuba, from Newham, initially aspired to become a cardiothoracic surgeon when he witnessed a horrifying accident which was to change the direction of his life.

Caleb shared his story to mark International Paramedics Day (July 8) and encouraged Londoners to consider a career at London Ambulance Service. He recalled: “Everything changed on a fateful day while I was at my aunt’s shop.

“I heard a frantic shout from outside.

“Alarmed, I rushed outside to see what had happened, and my heart sank as I realised that a motorbike had struck a child.

“The chaos that ensued was overwhelming, with people rushing to help the boy, who was lying motionless on the ground. I later learned that he died on his way to hospital.

“This traumatic experience profoundly impacted me. In that moment, I realised the vital role that immediate care plays in traumatic situations.”

Caleb joined London Ambulance Service 12 years later after being a paramedic in Nigeria for seven years.

While this tragic incident drove Caleb to become a paramedic, he has experienced more uplifting moments where he has had a positive impact on patients and the wider community.

He added: “About a year ago, I responded to a call about a cardiac arrest. The situation was critical, and we worked tirelessly to revive the patient. After what felt like an eternity, we managed to stabilise him, and he eventually spent days in the hospital recovering.

“Knowing that he not only survived but is now thriving is an indescribable feeling. The highlight came when he reached out to express his gratitude and requested to meet the team that played a part in saving his life.

“That moment was truly priceless. It was an incredible reminder of why I do this work—being able to help people during their most vulnerable moments is something I cherish deeply, and I never take it for granted. It brings a deep sense of satisfaction and purpose to my own life.”

Since then, the patient has since become a passionate advocate for CPR training, sharing his story to highlight its importance. He encourages others to learn these life-saving skills, emphasising that you never know when someone might need assistance.

Caleb continued: “Witnessing the impact of our efforts, not just on his life but on the community as well, filled me with pride and reaffirmed my commitment to this vital work. That moment will stay with me forever.”

Launched in 2022, International Paramedics Day takes place on 8th July each year, marking the anniversary of the birth of Dominique-Jean Larrey, often referred to as the father of modern-day ambulance services.

International Paramedics Day has been created by the College of Paramedics in the UK, with support from professional paramedics’ organisations from around the world.

Anyone interested in working for London Ambulance Service can find out more on the careers page here.