Athens officers assist a dialysis patient without transport to get life-saving care, exemplifying their commitment to serving the community.
ATHENS, Ala. — Athens Police officers went beyond their normal duties on Friday, Oct. 10, to ensure a dialysis patient received life-saving treatment after missing an appointment due to a transportation issue.
The call came from DaVita Athens Dialysis Center on Braly Boulevard, where staff were concerned a patient had not shown up for treatment. Athens Police Chief Anthony Pressnell said calls like this often have serious outcomes.
Officers Bobby Hand and Sergeant Patrick Minor went to the patient’s home and learned the person had lost their car keys, leaving no way to get to the dialysis center. Recognizing the urgency, the officers personally transported the patient to the facility.
Officer Hand also asked the dialysis staff to contact the department once treatment was complete. Nearly four hours later, Officer Joe Kimery picked up the patient and safely returned them home.
Chief Pressnell praised the officers for going above and beyond.
“This incident truly speaks a lot about the character and heart of our officers,” Pressnell said. “They are not just here to enforce laws; they are here to serve our community and this is a great example of that. Officer Hand, Sergeant Minor and Officer Kimery really exemplified what it means to go above and beyond the call of duty, this is something this person had to have and these officers made sure the person got the treatment needed. I couldn’t be prouder of the compassion they showed, this was an outstanding job on all of their parts.”
