Lakeland Regional Health’s trauma team awarded Polk Fire Rescue Inspector Donald McKiernan the hospital’s Guardian Award for saving the life of Larry Lashley’s last month.
Lashley was driving his truck along County Road 54 in Pasco County when he lost control, struck an electrical pole and then a barbed wire fence. McKiernan was driving home after work and witnessed the crash, responded and kept Lashley from bleeding to death until help arrived.“He was the guardian that day,” Lashley said of McKiernan. “He took charge of the situation and stayed with me until the ambulance got there.
”Lakeland Regional Trauma Director Dr. Olumide Sobowale, Critical Care Services Coordinator Courtney Simmons and Trauma Program Manager Alisha Douglas presented the award to McKiernan and explained the importance of people like him who give of themselves to save the life of another. Lashley also made a surprise appearance.