By Kevin Gilby
A Davidson paramedic helped defeat the Regina Police Services (RPS) in an epic air competition.
Josh Tindon
joined fellow EMS members and first responders in a friendly fundraising competition
against the Regina Police Service in support of Teddy Bears Anonymous.
Tinson, a primary care paramedic at Davidson EMS, was asked by peers to join
other first responders in the 2024 Jump for Charity to raise money for Teddy
Bears Anonymous, a local registered charity that purchases and provides teddy
bears to children in Saskatchewan’s hospitals and ambulances. Teddy Bears
Anonymous partners with the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation.
“A friend and fellow paramedic called me about a week in advance as another person backed out,” said Tinson. “He asked me if I would like to and I instantly said yes.”
Tinson had previous skydiving experience “many years ago” and appreciated the fine work that the charity does for Saskatchewan’s children.
Having worked with Davidson EMS for two years, and volunteering with the Davidson Fire Department for seven years, he has had more than enough first-hand experience with children in traumatizing situations.
“The charity is important to me because if we can bring a bit of happiness or comfort to kids in these intense and scary situations; it can really make a difference in their experience and outcome.”
The fundraising event was hosted by Skydive South Saskatchewan at the Moose Jaw Regional Airport on Sept. 7.
Prior to jump day, skydivers went to friends, co-workers, and social media to get people to donate to their teams.
“EMS staff will be giving out these teddy bears to children in their care during an ambulance ride,” posted Davidson Fire Department on social media to support Tinson. “These teddy bears really do make a difference to put a smile on their faces and make them more comfortable.”
Skydivers met with their peers and “combatants” early in the morning. Tinson was joined by three fellow paramedics to compete against four of Regina’s finest. Jumps started at 9 a.m. and at noon a barbecue was held. It was sponsored Brigade Energy Solutions Ltd.
“We raised more money than RPS and have been invited back next year to defend the title,” Tinson said with a laugh. “And this team plans to return.
“The experience is amazing. Skydive South Sask is a great organization and provides an awe-inspiring experience.”
Tinson reminds everyone that its never too late to donate to the charity. With the cello-wrapped bears costing only $5, even small donations can make a huge difference to a child’s scariest experience.
To donate, visit https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/954
For more information, please visit https://teddybearsanonymous.ca