CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman Regional’s Cullman Emergency Medical Services (EMS) recently received 10 Carter Kits to be placed in each ambulance thanks to a recent donation from local State Farm agent Tonya Wilson.
Carter Kits are inspired by Carter Severs, a 5-year-old boy from Michigan who has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Carter’s dad, Justin Severs, is a police detective and said he realized the need for tools to help first responders when arriving at a scene with a special needs child.
The kits include noise-canceling ear muffs, sunglasses, a weighted blanket, sensory toys and other fidget devices. The purpose of the kits is to help reduce the anxiety of special needs children by helping them relax and remain calm.
Carter and his dad made the 11-hour trip from Michigan to Cullman in order to personally present Cullman EMS with the kits. Cullman EMS is the first organization outside of the state of Michigan to install Carter Kits in its first responder vehicles.
“I want to thank Ms. Wilson for her generous donation to help purchase the Carter Kits for all of our ambulances,” said James Curtis, Cullman EMS director. “These kits will allow our paramedics and EMTs to better treat children with special needs and help them feel secure in emergency situations.”
