EMS Week 2023 Recognitions - Diana Foley from Martinsville Fire & EMS

Former salon owner Diana Foley is currently a Community Health Worker, Paramedic, and Firefighter for Martinsville Fire & EMS.  Life before EMS, the Captain of Smith River Rescue Squad, Crystal Harris, would come into the salon and never wanted to miss her hair appointment.  However, she never hesitated to drop everything when tones dropped. Diana admired her passion for helping the community. After years of convincing, she took an EMT class. Her passion expanded from volunteering ENT for her community to a career change.

Diana works with patients one on one after EMS providers recognize a greater need for care beyond emergent care. She sits down with patients and helps navigate for appropriate resources.  Diana serves Martinsville, Henry, and Patrick County. She also provides public education on home/ fire safety and public health. She also assists in continuing education and protocol implementation within the department.  Our community has had Diana at Martinsville Fire & EMS since 2018, and in January of 2022, she launched the department’s Community Paramedic Program.

Outside of work, Diana enjoys painting and sewing.  During the summer you can find her in the Pool.  One of her favorite places in Martinsville is enjoying the great atmosphere at The Ground Floor.  It is obvious that Diana loves what she does.  With the support from her staff and department supervisors, she states that every day is a different and great day!