By SEAN BOSTON
Hutch Post
HAVEN, Kan. — Haven Community EMS paramedic Cobe Kunkel has been named the Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram First Responder of the Month for October.
Kunkel, who has worked with Haven EMS for four years, said the recognition means a lot in a profession where responders rarely see the long-term outcomes of those they help.
“We don’t frequently see patients and families after the incidents, and if we do, it brings up bad memories for them, so we don’t typically get any form of closure or recognition,” Kunkel said. “So it feels nice to get a shout out.”
Originally from Maize, Kunkel said his interest in emergency medical services began early. His younger sister’s chronic health conditions required ambulance rides, and he admired the care shown by the EMTs who helped her.
“Seeing how the EMTs and medics treated my sister made me really, really interested in the field,” he said. “So I went to EMT school at 18, which is the youngest you can get licensed in Kansas, and worked for Haven as an EMT before earning my medic about two years ago.”
Kunkel explained that paramedics have a broader scope of practice than EMTs, allowing them to perform advanced airway procedures, interpret cardiac rhythms and administer a wider range of medications—skills that are authorized by a supervising medical director.
Beyond his local service, Kunkel works full time as a paramedic in Miami County, near Kansas City, where he works 48-hour shifts, while also covering shifts in Haven and Greenwood County.
“I probably work 80 to 100 hours a week total,” Kunkel said. “It’s pretty common in EMS to have multiple jobs, though I might work a few more hours than some because I’m paying for school.”
Despite the long hours, Kunkel said he finds great satisfaction in helping others and seeing them recover.
“My favorite part is when patients improve,” he said. “When you see someone around town after treating them for something serious and they’re doing well, it’s the best feeling ever.”
Kunkel praised the Haven EMS department for its willingness to invest in young first responders.
“Not a lot of places want to invest the time and training it takes to get you from school to being ready to take care of patients,” he said. “Haven really takes pride in its EMTs. The community is tight-knit and welcoming, and I love treating those folks up there.”
He added that Haven EMS is always looking for more EMTs and can help with funding for training.
“The profession is ever growing, and we need more people in this field,” Kunkel said.
He also credited EMT Dakota Isaacson, for being “a very smart, strong EMT” who deserves a share of the spotlight.
Kunkel's nominee said "Cobe is dedicated to giving the best care possible to those in need of emergency care. He loves what he does and works tirelessly to continue to learn and grow in his field.”
For more information on Haven EMS, click here.
