Monetary donation given as gratitude for medical care

  • 2014-12-22
Roger Desmarais of Andover has recently donated a total of $375,000 in appreciation of those who were involved in saving his life on September 27.

On that day, he called 911 as he was experiencing some discomfort in his chest after having worked in his backyard. As he was assessed by the EMTs, he went unconscious, but they were able to return him to consciousness. He was first brought to Lawrence General Hospital and then to the Lahey Clinic.

Of the $375,000, he gave $125,000 to the Andover Fire Rescue Department. Another $125,000 was given to each of the institutions that took care of him.

Desmarais commented that one of the emergency room doctors at Lawrence General, Dr. Richard Cressey, had been extraordinary in his care, having called Desmarais after he had been discharged to check on his progress.

Andover Fire Chief Michael B. Mansfield said that this is the first time something like this has happened in his career of 35 years. The money will be placed in the special gift account for the Department and most likely go towards the delivery of EMS services. Printing services may also be used for the creation of a poster or flyer that informs the community of the donation and how it will further help those in the community.