Mark Mapp

Mark Mapp has been nominated for the award because of his dedication of his working life to the St John Ambulance and Rescue Service. 
At 14, while still at school, a friend asked if he wanted to join him at St John Cadets. At the time there was only one paramedic serving the island, and Mr Mapp was inspired by his work and care. 
‘I went along, and right away I was hooked.' 
Over a career spanning nearly 38 years, Mr Mapp served in several positions including patient transport, emergency medical technician, paramedic, training, and finally chief executive before stepping down in June. 
During his various roles, he has had challenging times, often meeting people on some of their toughest days, and working day and night shifts to provide the essential service. 
‘When I was still working on the front line, shift work had its ups and downs. Missing family events like Christmas Day lunch was tough, and the ever-changing schedule of days, nights, and weekends made it hard to keep a normal family routine.’ 
Despite the difficulties, the team surrounding him and the trust put into the ambulance service by the community made it all worth it. St John not only provides a traditional ambulance service, but also in-home support, and lifeline services with the Flying Christine III. Mark said that during his seven years at the helm, he was proud to be able to offer this wide variety of services, noting the visible impact it had on individuals as well as the wider community. 
‘Knowing that the team’s work can genuinely change someone’s outcome, and sometimes save a life, is difficult to put a value on.’