Hibernian Radio May 30, 2026

This week on Hibernian Radio, host Mike Houlihan welcomes back longtime friend Patrick Fitzmaurice, retired Chicago Fire Department paramedic chief and one of the most respected emergency medical professionals ever to serve the city. Fitzmaurice reflects on a career spent responding to life-and-death emergencies, including the unforgettable rescue of a newborn baby discovered in a garbage can on a cold Chicago night. His account of the coordinated efforts of firefighters, paramedics, police officers, and hospital staff serves as a powerful tribute to Chicago’s first responders and their commitment to saving lives. The conversation also explores the emotional toll of emergency work, as Fitzmaurice speaks candidly about trauma, PTSD, and the importance of critical incident stress debriefing for first responders. Mike and Patrick also honor the legacy of Patrick’s late brother Terry Fitzmaurice, a legendary union leader whose lifelong dedication to organized labor recently earned posthumous recognition from the Irish Echo Labor Awards. It’s a heartfelt conversation about service, sacrifice, family, and the people who dedicate their lives to helping others when it matters most.