This Man: Tim McCormick

Tim McCormick

Cody Medley

 Last Saturday Indianapolis lost two of its finest.  Medic 50, driven by EMT Tim McCormick,24, and his work partner Cody Medley,22, was struck in a head on collision while on duty. Both men died as a result of their injuries. Fellow healthcare workers and friends describe the pair as passionate about their jobs and eager to make a difference in the community.  In McCormick's brief career he had indeed made a difference.  He was a first responder in the south side explosion in November and in the Indiana State Fair stage collapse.  I did not know Tim, but a visit to his  Youtube Channel will tell you all you need to know about the courage and compassion of this proud gay EMT.

My dad is a firefighter and paramedic in Houston.  I know firsthand the type of strength it takes to do this man's job.  I know the character it requires to do your best work on someone else's worst day.   Although I did not know Tim McCormick, I mourn his passing because of his dedication and ultimate sacrifice to the service of a state that did not view him as equal under the law.  Like all EMTs, this man ran to places where others fled from.  He comforted the living, fought for the wounded, and took the dead home.  Yet in 29 states he could have been fired for being openly gay.  This man who raced toward screaming metal and stage debris, was banned from giving blood to the very people he saved.  This man who nurtured the smudged and singed victims of a south side blast on Saturday night, was told that his love is a sin by their pastors on Sunday morning.

Today the Indianapolis community laid Tim McCormick to rest.  Tomorrow morning there will be a memorial service for both of the EMTs, where I know there will be more men and women like this man.  People who are eager and want to make a difference.  People who move forward while others move away.  People who love, and hope, and fight for towns and cities that won't do the same for them.  People like this man.  And I am grateful for it.