AMR Makes Patients’ Christmas Even Merrier

Jackson, MS -- Nine local nursing home patients were able to enjoy Christmas Day with their families at their homes.

It's a part of American Medical Response's annual goodwill project "Home For The Holiday." Paramedics pick up patients from the nursing home and transport them to a family member's home. The program started in 1991.

From the nursing home and into the ambulance, Tom Lucius is ready for his Christmas wish to be granted.

As they pull out and hit the road, the 53-year-old quadriplegic can feel they're nearing home. With the last turn, it's home sweet home at last.

As the paramedics roll the stretcher to the house, his family is waiting with joy and glee shining in their eyes.

"Merry Christmas!" said Bren Brame, Lucius' eldest sister.

From the stretcher, Lucius is moved into a chair by paramedic Chaz Kennedy, who's a part of the Christmas deed for the first time.

"I know I'm going to be home with my family, and him being home with his family, that's probably very special to him," said Kennedy.

"It means everything. I thought it was something I'd never be able to do again," said Lucius.

Lucius had his own landscaping company, and loved working outside. But in 2006, a drive home in his girlfriend's car changed his life forever.

"I was going home one night, and two deer jumped out in front of me. (I) tried to miss them, and ended up with my neck broke," said Lucius.

Even though Lucius is paralyzed, he's grateful to be alive and even more thankful for his family and girlfriend.

"She's an angel in my life. She's the one that takes care of me," said Lucius.

The past two Christmases, his family came to the nursing home to visit him. But this year, he answered everyone's prayers by coming home.

"It's just the best Christmas we've had probably ever in our life," said Brame.

Brame said her brother's outlook on life shines just like a Christmas tree and inspires everyone else around him.

"Life goes on, and it doesn't have to be a life that you don't want. It can be a life that can be very meaningful," said Brame.

His other sister, LaNell Lucius, drove in from Indiana. The two were always very close growing up since they're only two years apart. This year, she said she couldn't have asked for more.

"We would go see him Christmas day, and it just means so much for him to go be able to be here," said Lucius.

So this year, as his niece whips up dessert and final preparations are underway for a very special Christmas, the dinner table won't be incomplete.

"Just having everybody together, which we haven't had since his accident," said Lucius.

All nine patients will return to their nursing homes by 8 p.m. Christmas day.

This was AMR's 17th annual "Home For The Holiday" goodwill project.