Darlene Riley

Darlene has been working as an EMT for 24 years, 12 of which have been with Action Ambulance Service. Throughout her tenure at Action, Darlene has proven to be a highly valued member of the team. She is an asset when it comes to mentoring new employees and truly cares about her job, patients, and co-workers.

Darlene became an EMT because she grew up watching Emergency, with Squad 51. “Ever since that, I was interested in doing the same, which I did, and this will always be the best job that I have.” Darlene likes the uniqueness of the people she works with and the sense of community within the service. She says, “No one from the outside can truly understand what we go through, and why we do it. We do our job because we like it, and certainly not for the money. I like helping people, and I also like making a difference in their lives.”

Darlene also offered her talents in Texas during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and claims that was one of the highlights of her career. “We left with little notice, and just focused on getting there, not knowing what to expect. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to venture out beyond our comfort zone and work in another area of EMS.” Another highlight for Darlene was the first baby she delivered. “A firefighter and I were going shoulder to shoulder, and trying to push each other out of the way. Of course, I won, and I delivered a very healthy baby boy.”

Darlene has earned her associate’s degree in Paralegal Studies, and just received her real estate license. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her grandsons.