Mixon cites 'stellar' employee

A firefighter's altruism was the subject of the Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce First Responder of the Month presentation on April 23. 

Mount Pleasant Fire Chief Mike Mixon Jr. kicked off the latest Chamber Luncheon at the Omar Shrine Temple by spotlighting an initiative proposed by his colleague Capt. Chris Sanders to form a Community Paramedic Program. 

Over the years, this community endeavor has helped bridge the gap between emergency response and preventative care, according to Mixon. He specifically noted how the program has helped the department identify and service shut-ins, as well as individuals with mobility or addiction issues. 

"[We] try to respond to them not only in an emergency, but also in a preventative care capacity. Chris has done a wonderful job of that," said Mixon. 

The audience was apprised of one particular instance that saw Sanders came to the aid of a handicapped man whose customized vehicle had broken down, with his built-in ramp not working. Sanders facilitated a $5,000 repair at no cost to the motorist in question. 

"So, that's what he does on a daily basis," added Mixon. "He interacts with our community and does a wonderful job. I wanted to recognize him for his outreach. 

Sanders was presented with a glass-like award sponsored by Pinnacle Financial Partners.