Lloyd O’Brien, BC Ambulance Service, video. 2011
This video tells the life story of Lloyd O’Brien. After losing his leg in an industrial accident at 18, Lloyd recognized the critical need for proper emergency medical care, leading him to become a part-time ambulance driver.
Experience as a first responder to the Second Narrows Bridge collapse in Vancouver in 1958 solidified his dedication.
He later moved to Sicamous, where he became a volunteer ambulance driver, initially using his own car before the community helped acquire a dedicated ambulance. Lloyd then began training local volunteers, forming the first crew of part-time drivers.
A significant turning point came in 1974 when British Columbia established the BC Ambulance Service, setting a high standard that was later adopted by other provinces.
Lloyd expressed great satisfaction with this development, seeing it as the best possible outcome for the province. His lifelong contributions are widely recognized for shaping and improving emergency medical care for all British Columbians.
This video honouring Lloyd O’Brien was produced by WorkSafeBCfor the BC Labour Heritage Centre.