Jesse, a paramedic, prepares for the action. With an intake of 60 to 80 patients during an average shift, there's no expectations, no routine. Patients come in with symptoms that need diagnosis and treatment. Common colds, coughs and sore throats presenting one after another. Then there's trauma and the more serious cases.
"I enjoy what I do. I like the stories I hear from patients. Some are unforgettable. It goes without saying that I became interested in medicine to help people. I think I'm pretty good at connecting with my patients. I treat people with respect, and believe me, the feeling is not always mutual," Jesse says.
"It's really something to end up in a good conversation with someone who started off mouthy and rude. People will remember kindness. They remember being listened to and cared for. I like to make everyone laugh and maybe that's good medicine too," he adds.
Tim Larkin, an EMT, describes Jesse as one of the smartest medical professionals he knows.
"He's a skilled paramedic, who can accurately determine his patient's needs and takes the time to explain the situation whether simple or complicated. He's an intense person, but at the same time is very level-headed. Jesse is one of the hardest-working individuals I've had the pleasure of working with," Larkin says.
Dr.
Mike Fallon, who is the founder and medical director of the Immediacare Urgent Care Clinics, previously worked with Jesse in the emergency department at Lutheran Hospital. He's known Jesse for a number of years, and Dr. Fallon characterizes Jesse as someone who lives life on the straight and narrow with a natural sense of right and wrong.
"Jesse is a very dedicated paramedic. He's hardworking, and has an interesting angle on life that I think shields him from taking on emotional baggage common after treating seriously ill or injured patients." Fallon laughs and says, "His sense of humor provides a level of entertainment that, well ... how can I say this fittingly ... helps break up the day."
Another EMT,
Paula Berger, also a Medical Assistant, laughed when asked about working with Jesse. "Oh my gosh, he cracks me up, I mean side-splitting, tears down the cheek laughing. Everyone loves him! Integrity, focus, determination and drive describe him pretty well. He's someone the community is lucky to have. If I were hurt or sick, I would want Jesse there. We all feel that way. He's one of those people that you never forget. He shares his knowledge and experience, and helps us to be better medical providers. He's a genuine, good natured guy that brings levity to our business."
Jesse Jerome is a Lakewood, Colorado native. When not working at ImmediaCare, Jesse can be found working the streets as a paramedic and field trainer at Denver Health.
"I love my job," says Jesse, "But it's all about my life at home with my beautiful wife and children!"