A Lifetime of Dedication and Service
From a high school senior embarking on his EMT journey to a seasoned EMS professional with nearly 50 years of experience, Mark Self's dedication to service is as inspiring as it is remarkable. His story began in June 1975, when he graduated and entered the U.S. Navy, soon beginning his path as a Hospital Corpsman at the Naval Hospital in Charleston, South Carolina. There, Mark honed his skills in the Intensive Care Unit, providing care for patients of all ages and conditions, from neonates to neurosurgery cases.
His transition to the Emergency Department marked a pivotal point in his career. Driven by a desire to expand his knowledge and skills, Mark enrolled in paramedic school while balancing his demanding Navy schedule. The classes were rigorous, with 8-hour sessions each Monday through Saturday, followed by 4-hour clinical rotations. Without formal paramedic textbooks, Mark relied on hand-written notes, diligently studying in his spare time. Some weeks, he was awake for over 56 hours at a stretch, balancing work and training with a determination few could match.
In March 1978, Mark earned his paramedic certification, a milestone that set him on a lifelong path of service to South Carolina communities. Over the years, he worked in diverse settings, from rural and volunteer services to large urban EMS and fire-based combination services. While he remains a “street medic to the core,” Mark also embraced leadership roles as an EMS Director, training officer, and educator, leaving a lasting impact on countless EMTs and paramedics.
His commitment to EMS extends beyond the field. Mark is an active member of the South Carolina EMS Association, serves as Vice Chair of the SC EMS Foundation, and participates on multiple committees, including the Training Committee and the Medical Control and Advisory Committee. These roles allow him to shape the future of EMS, sharing his invaluable experience and advocating for the highest standards of care in South Carolina.
Reflecting on his journey, Mark jokes about his two attempts at retirement that "never seemed to stick." It’s clear that EMS is more than a career for him; it’s a calling. Mark’s son honored this legacy by commissioning a custom plaque that beautifully represents his father’s dual dedication to both EMS and the military—a testament to the depth of Mark's service.
As Mark approaches his 50th year in EMS this February, we celebrate not only his achievements but the unwavering commitment that has defined his career. His journey reminds us of the resilience, compassion, and dedication that embody the very best of EMS.
