Grow Your Own Journey Series Brandon and Ashliegh Sowards

ASHLIEGH & BRANDON SOWARDS
NATIONALLY REGISTERED PARAMEDICS (NRP)
Their paths crossed on the way to Paramedic School and SLV Health...

Ashliegh had been working as an EMT at SLV Health when she met Brandon in EMT-Intermediate school, “during COVID.” They both applied and were accepted into paramedic school, working 36 hours per week, traveling to Pueblo Community College, going to mandatory clinical rotations, and being placed in unpaid internships.

Studying together proved to be beneficial, because they were able to help in the areas where they have their own strengths and help teach each other. They got married about a month after they started the program in September of 2022.

“I was placed at Falcon Fire in Colorado Springs for my internship,” said Brandon. “It was a very rewarding experience and I felt accepted by the community who always showed their gratitude for our services. They have Level 1 and 2 traumas center hospitals and many more resources, so it was really an educational experience.”

Ashliegh served her internship at Montrose Fire. “I enjoyed being part of a different culture. I felt this community has a bit larger population of elderly residents. Despite some tough illnesses and challenging situations, the patients were extremely grateful.”

While they both paid out of pocket for their first 18 months of school, their second-semester finances were supplemented by state scholarships. “There is more financial aid available now to help offset tuition and fees for students who want to become an EMT or paramedic,” commented Ashliegh. When you become a paramedic, you have a completely different set of tools in your toolbox. “We get to assess, treat, learn the ‘why’ behind illnesses and injuries and rely on our own skills. School was difficult, but so worth it!”

They are both proud SLV natives. Brandon grew up in Manassa and Ashliegh in Monte Vista, but their pride for where they work is even greater.

“We save lives. Our jobs expose us to incredible opportunities to use the skills we learned. We get to practice medicine here. We all learn from each other on this team. It’s a safe place to learn, grow and work,” said Ashliegh.

“Alamosa Ambulance is the best. My goal every day is to strive to make it better. This is one of the coolest careers a person could ever have,” said Brandon. “We make a difference every single day.”