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Physician’s dedication as volunteer wins praise

Dr. Smile gets a badge, award for his 20 years with the West Chester Twp. Fire Department.

Contributed photo Dr. Dave Smile recently celebrated 20 years as Medical Director of the West Chester Twp. fire department.

ENLARGE PHOTO

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By Kelsey Cano, Staff Writer 1:46 PM Thursday, June 10, 2010

WEST CHESTER TWP. — West Chester Twp. Medical Director Dr. Dave Smile recently received an award recognizing his 20 years of service with the township’s fire department.

Smile, who is an emergency room doctor by day, began volunteering in 1990.

The job typically involves training EMS workers and firefighters and making sure the department is operating under current protocols, he said.

His most memorable moments? Saving patients from cardiac arrest.

“Those are really life saving things,” Smile said. “When you think about what it means to the patient and their families, that’s what makes it so worthwhile.”

Steve Kelly, West Chester Twp. EMS captain, said Smile is a huge asset to the department that wouldn’t be able to legally operate without him.

What’s more, Kelly said, is the selflessness Smile has shown. He has provided his services without pay during his entire tenure, Kelly said.

“It’s just incredible this day in age,” he said. “It helps me in my career to work with someone who is so passionate.”

Smile, who Kelly said is laid back and “not a fan of the limelight,” had to be lied to in order to get him to the township trustees meeting where he received his award.

“We told him he was coming to receive a proclamation for EMS week, when in reality he was really coming to receive his 20-year badge and award,” Kelly said.

Smile plans to continue volunteering with the department at least for a few more years.

“It’s just been an honor to work there,” he said.

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