Desert Care Network Honors EMS Heroes During National Emergency Medical Services Week

This week marks National Emergency Medical Services Week, a time to recognize the bravery, dedication, and lifesaving skills of first responders. To honor these local heroes, the Desert Care Network hosted a heartfelt ceremony at Desert Regional Medical Center.

The event brought together emergency personnel from the Palm Springs Fire Department, Cal Fire Riverside County, and American Medical Response. For one local family, the ceremony was more than symbolic—it was personal.

Akiko Mutani’s life changed on April 15 when her 15-year-old son was found unresponsive at the bottom of the pool at the Saguaro Hotel in Palm Springs. His older brother discovered him, and bystanders, including medical assistant Maria Calderon, rushed to help. Calderon began CPR before paramedics arrived. First responders were able to revive the teen—twice.

“Even during transportation, I heard he stopped breathing again,” Mutani said. “But the team of dedicated individuals brought him back again.”

Among those honored was Fire Captain Paramedic Jeff Kelsheimer, who responded to the scene. “We just focused on doing our job,” Kelsheimer said. “Calls like that become all about staying calm and taking action.”

Palm Springs Fire Chief Paul Alvarado praised his department for their instinctual and immediate response, not just to the pool rescue—but also to the bombing that shook downtown Palm Springs just days later.

“When everyone else is running away from danger, our fire crews run toward it,” Alvarado said. “Even before being dispatched, they were already at the scene, extinguishing flames and saving lives.”

Alvarado emphasized that this spirit of sacrifice and selflessness is what defines a firefighter’s mission.

EMS Week, first recognized in the 1970s under President Gerald Ford—a longtime Coachella Valley resident—continues to shine a light on those who serve in our most critical moments.

Credit: NBC Palm Springs

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