‘Power of teamwork’: Freetown dispatcher helps save man suffering medical emergency in Michigan

FREETOWN, Mass. — The holiday season is a time for miracles, which especially rang true earlier this month in Bristol County.

Police say on December 3 just before 8 p.m., a Freetown resident, Edward Porawski, was speaking with a family friend on the phone, Mr. King, who lived in Sault Ste Marie, Michigan, when he realized something was off.

Porawski determined that Mr. King was suffering a medical emergency. Even more worrisome, he knew that King was alone in his home, surrounded by three to four feet of snow.

Knowing his friend’s life was at risk, Porawski immediately called 911, where Dispatcher Dean Guimares jumped into action.

Dispatcher Guimares, despite the challenges of coordinating emergency services halfway across the country, worked quickly to relay critical information to the Michigan State Police and Chippewa County 911, according to authorities.

Officials say within minutes, first responders arrived at King’s home and provided life-saving care.

He was transported to an area hospital, where Michigan authorities say he is recovering and will celebrate the holidays with his friends and neighbors.

“The Freetown Police Department extends our gratitude to Mr. Edward Porawski for his quick actions, to Dispatcher Dean Guimares for his professionalism and persistence, and to all the emergency call takers and first responders who played a role in this life-saving effort,” Police Chief Scott Rose said. “This extraordinary event is a testament to the power of teamwork, compassion, and the dedication of those who serve in emergency services. Together, they gave the greatest gift of all—a second chance at life.”

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