Melissa Coffel Became an EMT in 1991 and has since went on to earn her Paramedic certification in 2002. Since being involved in EMS, she has worked hard to promote EMS and went beyond the call of duty. Once while working on a patient in cardiac arrest, Melissa slipped on a dew covered porch fracturing both tibia and fubula. Melissa crawled back inside the residence to continue CPR on the patient while tears of pain streamed down her face. Even at the advice of her partner to get off her leg and wait on backup, she continued CPR until help arrived. The resucitation was successful even though the patient died several days later. Melissa has been a large influence on the Crowley's Ridge Chapter of EMS Assoc being the President since its re-organization in 2000 and being infuential in starting an annual mini Conference for northeast Arkansas for those unable to attend the state conference.. Under her guidance, the organization continues to grow today. In 2003 Melissa was elected Region 2 Board member for the Arkansas EMT Assoc representing northeast Arkansas. Melissa has been active in the American Heart Association teaching CPR and First Aid. She recently was awarded the BLS Instructor of the year for the state of Arkansas.
