In a world often bound by convention and routine, there are those who dare to break free from the molds society shapes. In the heart of Washington, DC, Lucas Gorelick, an 18-year-old EMT, stands at the intersection of youth and community service, a blend as dynamic as his journey from politics to EMS. Born in Berkeley, California, in 2005, Lucas moved to Reno, Nevada when he was just 3 years old. After being invited to join a campaign in 2020, he began his foray into the world of politics at the tender age of 14..
“I became an EMT because I was tired of sitting back and not helping my community as much as I could,” says Lucas, reflecting on his shift from the world of politics. He felt a yearning for a more tangible impact, a desire to be on the frontline of community restoration. “Working in politics, it didn’t always feel like I was helping people,” he notes.
In the realm of public service, Lucas finds his youth to be an asset. It’s this advantage that led him to delve into politics early on, working with the Biden Campaign at 14. His involvement in stand-up comedy, starting at the age of 15, added a dash of humor to his repertoire. Lucas even graced the stage at Laugh Factory in Las Vegas, using laughter as a tool to connect with a broader audience.
At 18, Lucas made the bold decision to transition from politics to EMS, undergoing intense training in Arizona to become an EMT. “As an EMT, not only does it help to fuel me as an adrenaline junkie, but it allows me to be on the ground helping people in the community who need it most,” he says.
Lucas’s journey reflects the evolution of a young individual, eager to bridge the gap between political ideologies and practical community assistance. His experience in politics has laid a foundation for his role as an EMT, shaping his approach to community service. “Working in politics allowed me to grow a deep and true understanding of my community and the issues surrounding it,” Lucas explains.
The shift from the political arena to the medical frontlines has brought a change in perspective for Lucas. Rather than striving for votes, he now works hands-on, directly impacting the well-being of his community.
In his role as an EMT, Lucas encounters diverse situations that provide a unique lens into the lives of the people he serves. While specific details are protected by HIPAA, he emphasizes the importance of connecting with patients beyond the immediate medical context. “Often, I take the time while transporting my patients to learn more about them,” he shares. “I listen to their life experiences and learn about other views and perspectives of the world.”
Lucas is not just an EMT responding to 911 calls; he is also actively involved in community restoration projects and special events. Whether it’s a cardiac arrest or a minor injury at an ice skating rink, Lucas is on the front lines, ensuring everyone’s safety and well-being.
For those contemplating a similar transition from a career in politics to a more hands-on role like being an EMT, Lucas offers simple yet profound advice. “Do what you love and take risks, the two most important things,” he asserts. His own journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of taking risks and pursuing one’s passions. “While I have never had a medical calling for a career, I took a risk in becoming an EMT, and it was one of the best decisions I ever made! Now I get to help my community in a way I never thought I would.”
As Lucas continues to thrive in his role as an EMT, embodying the spirit of service and community, it’s clear that his journey is far from over. While navigating the unpredictable terrain of EMS, Lucas maintains a firm commitment to his roots in politics and policy.
Lucas Gorelick’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of following one’s passions and embracing change. From the political arena to the front lines of emergency response, his story is a reminder that the pursuit of fulfillment often leads us down unexpected but profoundly rewarding paths. In a world that sometimes seems disconnected, Lucas stands as a beacon, proving that the most impactful changes can come from those who dare to take a risk and make a difference, one life at a time.
