Andrew Collard

Paramedic

Hi, I'm Andrew. At least once a week, I'm asked if anyone has ever told me that I look like Adam Sandler. The record is 6 people including 2 TSA agents in the same day asking me that, but nothing beats that one lady who followed me through Ikea because she didn't believe that I'm not him. Personally, I don't see it.

 I started in EMS almost 20 years ago as a volunteer, and the majority of that time has been as a Paramedic with various commercial services. I love to teach, so I also work part time as an instructor teaching various EMS related topics.

I'm an avid martial artist a nerd of all things related to the subject, and I used to own and operate my own karate school. I'm  a chess enthusiast who is not very good at the game, an amateur cook, and a German Shepherd addict. 

I joined the Peer Support group because several years ago, I was in crisis and it was during a time when those in EMS didn't talk about mental health. I don't want anyone to go through what I did, so I jumped at the chance to help out. 

Another way that I want to help is by becoming a clinical psychologist specializing in care  for first responders, and have been working towards that goal for several years.