Celebrating the Pathfinders of Pre-Hospital & Adventure Medicine
Every paramedic has a story, some began their journey through the armed forces, others found their calling later in life. But all of them share a common thread: a commitment to show up, wherever they’re needed most.
At World Extreme Medicine, we’re proud to work with some of the most experienced and inspiring paramedics in the field. Whether responding to mountain emergencies, working in remote humanitarian settings, or teaching the next generation of medics, these individuals are at the forefront of adventure and extreme medicine.
This International Paramedics Day, we’re shining a spotlight on just a few of our faculty and celebrating the diversity, skill, and humanity they bring to the role.
Alex Gaspar – Paramedic & Trainee Advanced Critical Care Practitioner
7 years in extreme medicine
After a short commission in the infantry, Alex retrained as a paramedic—drawn to a career where learning never stops.
“I loved the idea of work where there is always more to learn—where you’re never ‘done’ developing.”
His favourite part? The people.
“Patients, colleagues… it’s the people that make the job.”
Despite the challenges, Alex says the job becomes part of your identity:
“The hours aren’t great, the money’s not amazing, and you will see people at their very worst—but overwhelmingly, I have loved it.”
Ben Lyon – Paramedic
8 years in extreme medicine
Ben’s path started in the military as a Royal Marine Commando combat medic. Since then, his curiosity for medicine in difficult environments has never waned.
“I have a passion to help people and a curiosity of medicine in challenging environments.”
He’s driven by the camaraderie and collaboration of those around him:
“Working with such a diverse range of professionals and learning from each other.”
His advice?
“Don’t wait around. Take the leap of faith and have a go.”
Ben Watts – Advanced Retrieval Practitioner
8 years in extreme medicine
Once an outdoor instructor, beach lifeguard, and expedition leader, Ben eventually combined all his passions into one powerful role.
“I love helping people. I love adventures. And I love using my brain under pressure.”
Working in high-acuity environments, Ben sees paramedicine as a privilege:
“To help patients in their hour of greatest need—what could be more rewarding?”
He believes the possibilities are vast:
“It’s a versatile, exciting career that will take you to places you never imagined.”
Donna Finnis – Paramedic
From ski patrol to mountain rescue, Donna’s career has always been grounded in remote, high-stakes environments. Her transition to paramedicine was a natural evolution.
“Following a background of living in the Alps, working in ski patrol and mountain rescue, I wanted to formalise and deepen my knowledge and practice of pre-hospital care.”
What inspired her most were the people she worked alongside:
“I was encouraged and inspired by fellow SAR colleagues already working in pre-hospital care.”
She still finds joy in the wild and the work:
“Being outdoors and sharing my experiences and knowledge with others.”
Simple advice for anyone unsure?
“Just do it. You’ll love it!”
Jamie Pattison – Winch Paramedic, UKSAR & NNPMRT Team Leader
10 years in extreme medicine
Jamie joined the ambulance service at 18, inspired by his mum, a nurse. Over the years, his career has taken him to some of the most remote and high-risk environments in the UK.
“Being presented with the most challenging circumstances and still being able to care for a person with compassion—that’s what I love.”
Jamie brings a mix of clinical confidence and humility. His advice is a message to anyone wrestling with imposter syndrome:
“You are enough as you are. Learn as you go and be kind to yourself—it’s a lifelong journey.”
Jason Zubiena – Advanced Paramedic Practitioner & Mountain Leader
6 years in extreme medicine
Jason didn’t become a paramedic until his late 30s—but once he did, he never looked back.
“I’ve always enjoyed being able to render aid and help others during their darkest moments.”
Today, he mixes frontline practice with mountain leadership and mentoring.
“The variety of exciting and attainable opportunities that the job presents is incredible. I’ve met some of the most amazing people.”
And for those looking to break into adventure medicine?
“Just doing your day job won’t cut it. You need to get out there and live it.”
Ryan Atkinson – Paramedic
15 years in extreme medicine
Ryan’s journey into paramedicine wasn’t linear. A decade of odd jobs and travelling led him to a profession where unpredictability is part of the appeal.
“I love being out in the elements, thinking on my feet, and the responsibility of decision-making in the field.”
He thrives on the unknown:
“It’s just you, your bag, and the challenge ahead.”
And while he’s honest about the tough parts:
“It’s a brutal life in a brutal world,”
he adds—
“There are moments of true peace and connection. It’s worth it.”
Final Thoughts
Aside from responding to emergencies, Paramedicine is all about connection, resilience, and importantly – trust. In extreme and expedition medicine, those principles are tested in some of the harshest environments on earth.
A massive thank you to Alex, Ben L, Ben W, Donna, Jamie, Jason, Ryan for sharing their stories, and to all the paramedics in our community; we thank you for your commitment, your courage, and your calm under pressure.
And if you’re just starting out or thinking of branching into adventure or remote care, these stories are your reminder that there’s no ‘perfect path.’ Just the next step.
New Podcast Series: A Paramedic’s Story from the Front Line
As we celebrate International Paramedics Day, we’re also releasing a special 3-part podcast series marking the 20th anniversary of the 7/7 London bombings, told entirely by the paramedics who responded.
From navigating chaos underground to processing trauma in the months and years that followed, these episodes offer a rare, honest glimpse into what it truly means to be a paramedic on one of the most devastating days in UK history.
→ Listen now
→ Read the full story behind the series
This isn’t just a tribute to the past, it’s a call to honour the present. The strength, compassion, and courage shown by paramedics on 7/7 mirrors the dedication we see every day in remote, pre-hospital, and extreme medicine settings.
To all paramedics — past, present, and future — we thank you.
→ Learn from many of our incredible faculty on our Extreme Medicine Courses
→ Listen to the stories of those from the frontlines: 7/7 London Bombings – 20 years on