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EMT critical of abortion clinic
BY RICK FOSTER SUN CHRONICLE STAFF
Friday, October 24, 2008 2:02 AM EDT




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ATTLEBORO - A city firefighter who helped organize a prayer campaign against abortion said in a nationally published interview that a local clinic treated a young woman whose fetus had just been aborted "like a paycheck" during a medical emergency there.

Stephen Marcotte, an emergency medical technician with the Attleboro Fire Department, was quoted in the National Catholic Register that he was deeply affected by an abortion-related emergency call to Four Women Health Services in Attleboro. Marcotte is a spokesman for the Attleboro 40 Days For Life campaign, which includes prayer and fasting, as well as a peaceful vigil outside the women's clinic.

"I asked the patient's name, like I do on all medical runs, but nobody knew," Marcotte was quoted as saying. "Here, they had just aborted this 19-year-old girl's baby, and I saw them scrambling to find out who she was.

"To them, she was a procedure, a paycheck. That really bothered me."

The report was posted on the magazine's Web site, www.ncregister.com. Marcotte declined a request for an interview with The Sun Chronicle, except to say that his opinions are his own and are not intended to represent the Attleboro Fire Department or fellow employees.

A spokeswoman for Four Women's on Emory Street had no comment Thursday.

The 40 Days For Life campaign began in September and is scheduled to end Nov. 2, two days before the presidential election. More than 170 communities in the United States and Canada reportedly are participating in the campaign.

Many churches in the Attleboro area, including LaSalette Shrine, St. Joseph's Church, Holy Ghost Church, Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Seekonk and the Diocese of Fall River support the campaign.

"As people here in Attleboro join with others from across the country to pray and fast and take courageous action for 40 days to end the tragic violence of abortion, we look forward to seeing what kind of transformation God will bring about in our city and throughout America," Marcotte told a Sun Chronicle reporter earlier this fall.

As part of their efforts at the vigils, campaign supporters try to speak to women and provide information on alternative pregnancy centers, such as A Women's Concern, which has eight offices throughout New England.

"We're not just asking women to choose life; we're offering them support throughout their pregnancy," Marcotte said.

The article quoting Marcotte did not detail when the incident happened or give a name or identifying characteristics of the woman who was involved.

Attleboro Fire Chief Ron Churchill said he is aware of Marcotte's activism and that political advocacy by a public employee is acceptable as long it does not mix with work.

"He hasn't crossed that line," Churchill said.
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ricknkim wrote on Nov 11, 2008 9:27 AM:

" Since he did not infringe on the patient confidentiality issue, he's entitled to his opinion. He's also subject to criticism once he publicly makes a statement like that. I think if he's accurate in his statement, then there is a sad story to be told . . . it is everyone's own decision whether or not to read/listen to that story. "

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lindsay929 wrote on Nov 10, 2008 2:21 PM:

" I agree completely. My point is exactly this, you can't take his version of events as immutable proof that the clinic views patients as a paycheck. He could be spot on as you say, but it isn't a rarity in medicine and does not accurately reflect the level of care of the provider. I could make a stronger argument of a clinic viewing care as simply a paycheck every time my office makes a billing error with my insurance and won't see me until it is resolved. This is a matter of opinion, of which he is entitled, but I am not sure the city would appreciate the entire fire department critiquing local facilities in the national press. As an EMT, his duty is to the patient first, and he did her no justice by going to the press. Legally, he is bound to maintain her anonymity, so its equivocal he did so. Ethically, if he thought it was subpar care, he should have gone to the medical board.

I don't like to give the impression of defending an abortion clinic. The problem is when an authority (such as a city employee) makes comments like this, as respected members of the community, their comments are considered expert. My criticism is directed towards someone I agree with in principle making a bad argument. It makes me furious because it weakens the position of those who could actually make a difference. "

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ricknkim wrote on Nov 10, 2008 1:13 PM:

" But who is to say that this EMT wasn't spot-on? Not me, I wasn't there. It could very well have happened just the way he said with the staff disinterested in the patient and all. He could also be dead-wrong with a set of circumstances (shift change, other confusion)that lead to making the environment such that he drew the wrong conclusion.

He spoke of what he saw/experienced - as he saw it. Could have been an ugly reality, could have been an unfortunate misconception on his part. Having a personal understanding of the ineguities from one nurse or facility to another, I could totally believe his story. But I'd also give the benefit of doubt to the facility knowing how easily misconceptions can be made. Unfortunately I have not heard or read the other side of the incident. "

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lindsay929 wrote on Nov 10, 2008 12:37 PM:

" My apologies for not being clear, its unfortunate you immediately assume I am misinformed because I dont agree.

I never said he referred to her by name in the publication. As a matter of fact, Im pretty sure the woman didnt call 911, the clinic did - and the EMT calls the clinic out for considering the patient a paycheck.

My point is it sets a dangerous precedent. The EMT employs faulty logic equating the clinics interest in caring for a patient to their ability to immediately identify her. These situations happen all the time, unfortunately. Example: a late night call to a nursing home where the staff is unable to identify the patient, giving the time honored Im covering, not my patient excuse. It happens, and to indict the facility based on this sort of interaction is careless.

I also never suggested that one should outlaw protest a la China. I commend this EMT for his defense of his principles and I commend you for yours. My point really has nothing to do with abortion, my concern is a city employees decision to publicize an on duty incident for the purpose of his off duty endeavors. The fact is, if he really felt that they were not providing due diligence, he should have gone to the state board of medicine and not a catholic newspaper. "

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ricknkim wrote on Nov 10, 2008 9:31 AM:

" You are very misinformed Lindsay regarding the need/use of a patient's name on EMT/ambulance runs. Instead of making assumptions, wrong as they may be, why not educate yourself on a subject first?

As far as referring to the patient in a national publication, no name or any other identifying information was put out in that pub so "being called out" is completely innacurate on your part. The story was used in general terms so as to convey some concern that the EMT had. Not to identify someone.

As for the graphic signs, I agree in that they are distasteful - but so is abortion when used as a form of birth control in my opinion. But those pictures are reality, no? It is great to live in a country where I can have my own opinions and the right to picket/demonstrate. If you feel so strongly, either form a counter protest or simply ignore the demonstrators. I'd suggest never hint at outlawing one's right to demonstrate, that is a dangerous idea and you can see the ugly side of it if you care to visit China sometime . . . of course, just my opinion. "

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lindsay929 wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:28 PM:

" Standing outside an abortion clinic with those horrid signs is not for the purpose of education, but intimidation.

Indicting this clinic as "only after a paycheck" because they can't immediately identify the patient to one of the EMTs? Get over yourself. As any health care provider that really works in medicine can tell you, patients are referred to by diagnosis or status merely because of privacy issues - not because no one cares! He must be new or something. A patient who really needs a medic doesn't need a name - they need immediate assistance. Name not required! He'd need her weight for drug calculation before he'd need her name! But, whatever reinforces your bias.

The fact of the matter is, if they didn't care like the EMT says, he wouldn't have been there in the first place.

Honestly, if I worked in that clinic and saw him and his friends protesting me every day, calling me a killer and so forth for doing my job, maybe I wouldn't have made his job easier either.

Moral of the story here is if you participate in something that others may consider offending their faith, you should stop and think before you call 911 - the EMTs might call you out in a nationwide religious publication. Classy. "

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ricknkim wrote on Nov 7, 2008 12:16 PM:

" To educate these women that there are alternatives to using abortion as a means of birth control. "

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bunny wrote on Nov 7, 2008 11:38 AM:

" It seems that "having sex" has replaced Monopoly and Scrabble as favorite parlor games,so why are you surprised that there are so many young people standing in line to have abortions? I remember the horrific consequences of the "back-alley Doctors or the home made instruments that people used to "get ridof" the evidence of their bad judgement. By the time these girls got to the ER they were either dead,or close to it. Maybe some folks have decided that clean ,controlled surgery is a terrible thing,but believe me,the alternative is much worse. Why not attend each to his own business,and leave these decisions to the patient and her doctor. "

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ricknkim wrote on Nov 7, 2008 9:15 AM:

" That's the spirit "Outfall"! Let's ban all public demonstrations and maybe even censor the media . . . oh wait, that's what is going on in Russia.

You don't have to agree with them - I certainly think they could achieve more results with other tactics but they have a right to demonstrate so you should respect that. Otherwise, take a field trip to Russia, China, North Korea, etc. and appreciate your freedoms.

Last I checked, that neighborhood had bigger issues than pro-life demonstrators. "

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outfall1945 wrote on Nov 7, 2008 6:39 AM:

" these protesters are a parasite on the neighborhood. Get out and stay out. This is nothing now but a business and thats it. We do not come to your neighborhood and protest against your beliefs so stay out of ours. In any others country you people would not be able to disturb the citizens as you do here. You people are a blot on America "

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ricknkim wrote on Oct 29, 2008 1:51 PM:

" AttleGal - my son was premature and at birth would have without question died without breathing assistance, etc. Since he could not have lived on his own, was he not a "life" until he could live on his own as you claim? Each time I saw him on the monitor throughout my wife's pregnancy - growing, moving, kicking and sucking his thumb, he was just a parasite and not a life . . . .

Horrible example and shallow thought process on your part. "

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RLincoln wrote on Oct 29, 2008 12:26 PM:

" A baby just born cannot live on its own, yet it is a life. So your criteria is invalid.

I wonder how many pro-lifers here are also agains the death penalty? It always amazes me that people are so hypocritical as to be "pro-life", anti-abortion, yet would willingly take away another life. Either you respect all life or none. We are not empowered to choose. "

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AttleGal wrote on Oct 29, 2008 10:50 AM:

" My point is that it cannot live on its own - it is a parasite with potential. If it cannot live on its own, it is not a life. "

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ricknkim wrote on Oct 29, 2008 9:11 AM:

" We are in agreement quaff787, counseling in a non-hostile and non-confrontational manner would be more productive in my opinion. However, the protesters still have a right and as long as they follow the law, have at it. Time would be better spent in actually helping these young women and educating them on all the options though . . . I would assume that hearing someone intelligently explain what stage the baby is in, services available and the like would be more productive than smearing a picture of an aborted fetus in their face and yelling at them. Again, just my opinion. "

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quaff787 wrote on Oct 29, 2008 6:23 AM:

" ricknkim- That's exactly what I think. I think many of these protesters would be a lot more productive giving counseling to mothers than to sit around with signs at 4 women which won't change anyone's minds. "

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ricknkim wrote on Oct 28, 2008 3:23 PM:

" quaff787- I consider myself what you negatively refer to as a pro-lifer. I think a baby that was conceived due to rape is no less human than one conceived between 2 consensual partners and therefore entitled to the same respect and appreciation. Of course the mother is certainly different, both physically and mentally. I'd say educate the woman about ALL her options and support her in whatever decision she makes. "

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quaff787 wrote on Oct 28, 2008 2:59 PM:

" These protesters I bet are they kind of people that would make a girl that was raped carry through with delivery. unreal.

Even worse is that some prolifers accept abortion if the female is raped. So is the baby from a rape less of a human than a baby from consensual sex? "

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ricknkim wrote on Oct 28, 2008 1:58 PM:

" At 8-weeks, "it" is much more than just "a bunch of cells" . . . the baby has developed fingers and toes, the tongue is developing, as are the intestines and he/she actually resembles a baby.

Not a lecture - just an accurate account of what that "bunch of cells" represents.

http://www.pregnancy.org/pregnancy/fetaldevelopment1.php#week8 "

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AttleGal wrote on Oct 28, 2008 12:54 PM:

" Paul - you are obviously a foolish, uncaring extremist. I am only replying to your evil laugh-laced rant to tell you that when you meet your evil narrow-minded maker you'll be given a towel to wipe away the sweat and some sunblock. And that's more than you and your kind deserve.

An 8-week old bunch of cells has the POTENTIAL to be a living, breathing baby. it cannot live on its own. If I ever have another 8-week miscarriage, I'll find you and let YOU raise it. "

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ricknkim wrote on Oct 28, 2008 10:36 AM:

" I agree that abortion is a sad result of careless human activity - a sort of birth control in many cases. I agree that many women struggle with a very difficult decision. I agree that offering alternatives to abortion is worthwhile. I also agree that aborting a fetus once it reaches a certain stage is a sort of "legal murder" - I struggle to understand the other side of the debate when you see an ultrasound and the little baby is sucking his/her thumb, rolling around, etc.

However, I DON'T agree with talking down to people who have chosen abortion. There is a civil way to offering alternatives and educating on the topic. In your face tactics and shouting matches are not productive. "

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saywhat wrote on Oct 27, 2008 8:03 PM:

" Paul. Can you please stop yelling (in case you don't know.. everytime you write in all caps, it's considered yelling in email/blog use. Thank you "

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Paul Couturier wrote on Oct 27, 2008 7:38 PM:

" ricknkim, I agree with you!!!!!

Thr PRO-ABORTIONISTS here are so VICIOUS and BLIND that they REFUSE to acknowledge the SCIENTIFIC and MEDICAL EVIDENCE that what a pregnant woman is carrying in her uterus is a LIVING, BREATHING, HUMAN BEING!

The UNDENIABLE EVIDENCE is there; THEY just have to ACCEPT IT!

You agree????????????????????? "

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Paul Couturier wrote on Oct 27, 2008 7:35 PM:

" Hey ANGRY, I didn't lash out at you, I merely asked you some questions that you OBVIOUSLY can't honestly answer because you have DENIED the UNDENIABLE scientific and medical EVIDENCE that what you carried in your uterus was a LIVING, BREATHING, HUMAN BEING!!!!!

I guess you didn't have an ultrasound first before you DENIED your HUMAN BABY its right to choose whether it wanted to live or die :( "

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ricknkim wrote on Oct 27, 2008 9:51 AM:

" It is too bad people can't respect a differing opinion without personally attacking the other side of this debate. It's the extremists on BOTH sides of this issue that ruin any hope of a civil debate.

I am personally against abortion and hate to see it used as a form of birth control, however, I also ultimately see it as a woman's personal choice (with the partner's input)even if in my mind, they are committing a form of legal murder once that child is a viable human organism.

I am always open to other's views and comments on my position - just not an out of control rant that is disrespectful. "

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Upset wrote on Oct 27, 2008 7:49 AM:

" Paul: Please reread what I wrote- instead of skimming the writing and jumping to a conclusion.

And no, at the time I made my decision it was a mass of cells. I have friends who have had abortions and I supported them all the way, went with them, stayed with them afterwards- and had compassion for what they were going through. I do not condemn a person for being pro-life, it's a choice that living in the U.S. we are allowed to make. And again- if I become pregnant, and choose to abort, it is my choice.

Many factors go into a choice of whether to abort or put up for adoption or to keep an unwanted pregnancy.
The mental ramifications are enormous- and can you honestly say there are not enough unwanted pregnancys and children already in the system, up for adoption here in the US or around the world already?

My choices are my choices, yours are yours- don't force yours on anyone else- thats a violation of their rights, and privacy. when your child comes home and says that they are pregnant, or have knocked some girl up- are you prepared to raise that unborn child until your child is 18? That is what is going to happen- your money your time your life.

Think before you lash out at others- their circumstances could be totally different from yours. "

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Paul Couturier wrote on Oct 26, 2008 5:40 PM:

" So upset, did you EVER consider allowing your unborn baby to decide whether it it wanted to LIVE or not?????????

Ever consider giving your baby up for adoption???????????????????????

Just some thoughts. "

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candor wrote on Oct 26, 2008 12:00 PM:

" Just remember it is a free country, let's keep it that way. Who are we to tell others what they can do? If they want to protest for or against this or any other issue, so be it. Good for him to stand up for what he believes. Even if one may not agree with him or not. Not many others do. "

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Upset wrote on Oct 26, 2008 12:30 AM:

" I made it half way through the postings, and started to cry.
I was pregnant at 16 and my son was born when I was 17. I dropped out of high school when I found out I was pregnant- I adamantly refused an abortion, and finally decided to give him up for adoption.

Today, even 11 years later, I made the decision that if I get pregnant I WILL NOT go through that again. I will abort. I can not believe anyone who has not gone through the heart break or agony of having to leave the hospital with out the child you just gave birth to- you are connected to for the last 9+ months.

Anyone who takes away a womens right to choose is sick. I hated myself for putting myself through that situation, or that my boy could hate me in another 8 years from now.
Had I known then what I know now- I would have aborted, and avoided the pain I went through.

Sham on all of you! You go through being a teen, or adult and getting pregnant accidentally- and yes I was on BC and used other protection- and go through those months, and then hurt so bad a pin dropping breaks you in 2. Then you can have the right to speak out. "

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Paul Couturier wrote on Oct 25, 2008 9:27 PM:

" Hey wattlegal,

LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL

What are YOU talking about????????????????????????????

Are you imagining things??????? "

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civil rights wrote on Oct 25, 2008 2:55 PM:

" I have been told that people in Attleboro, unlike other Mass. cities with abortion facilities, are faced with raw police power restricting citizens' civil rights to pray or peacefully protest the killing inside. The Attleboro powers- that-be have decided that killing babies by the score is more important than the Bill of Rights. So harassing the citizens exercising their constitutional rights is the official police duty. "

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AttleGal wrote on Oct 25, 2008 2:24 PM:

" I know you, Paul Couturier - you're the whack job who chased my car into the parking lot, hitting my car with your hideous sign - and I was there to see an orthopedist! You have no right to force your views on others!

Have you ever been pregnant? I doubt it, so you have nothing on which to base your rantings. "

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Mary H. wrote on Oct 25, 2008 1:24 PM:

" Posting guidelines state that personal attacks and vulgar or objectionable language should not be used.... "

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Paul Couturier wrote on Oct 25, 2008 1:11 PM:

" Sorry psycal, I'm NOT anybody else; I'm an open-minded INDEPENDENT!!

I just tell like it is. I'm Me, and no one else!!

DO YOU HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THAT???? "

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socal1 wrote on Oct 25, 2008 10:40 AM:

" Anna, if I understand the laws, if a child is born in the US the child is automatically a US citizen. That child has the right to live here, not granted as a privilege. "

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Anna DeMarinis wrote on Oct 24, 2008 11:49 PM:

" socal: I don't know how you made that leap but there's clearly no logic in your assertion. All babies are created equal. They just don't all have a right to live in the US. It is a privilege to live here. A good 25% of the people who don't have health insurance are illegal aliens. They clog up our hospitals and emergency rooms, are bankrupting Medicaid and if they went home, we could have a better and more responsive health care system. "

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socal1 wrote on Oct 24, 2008 10:02 PM:

" Anna, so I guess from your answer to my question, not all babies are created equal. Mighty Christian of you. "

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Ivan wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:04 PM:

" Thank goodness for Marcotte and others who realize that the real tragedy here is what goes on inside the abortion clinic. How about some focus on that, or is it just not P-C enough?
There seems to be so much festering pain out there over abortion that just the mention of it sends people into defensive mode.
If you go to the original article quoted here, you'll see that the firefighter was not using his position as a civil servant to promote his own agenda. In the course of responding to a medical emergency at an abortion clinic, his heart was touched. The original article talks about other firefighters leading similar prayer vigils, but as private citizens, on their own time.
It makes the point that it's a natural fit for someone who's used to putting his life on the line for strangers to do something like this. Thank you, Mr. Marcotte, and all the people involved in this national prayer campaign.
By the way, I think the reporter did a great job of presenting the story in an unbiased way - something you don't see a whole lot of in journalism these days.
Thank you, too, Mr. Foster. "

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Anna DeMarinis wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:23 PM:

" mmarcia: I work with the Privacy Rule all the time and this man has not violated any confidentiality regulations.
socal: The illegal alien should pay for her own abortion and then go back to her home country. In fact, she should have her abortion there. I don't want the taxpayers paying for her abortion (which is more likely to be the case than the illegal paying for it herself). I oppose anchor babies. "

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jimr28 wrote on Oct 24, 2008 7:44 PM:

" I do not believe he has broken the law because to my knowledge he has not identified the patient. If talking about a patient without giving their personal information was a crime how could police and fire officials give out what type of injuries a person suffered in an auto accident.

I personally don't agree with him using his position as a member of local public safety to promote his own personal agenda, but I do agree with his first amendment rights to voice his opinion. "

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socal1 wrote on Oct 24, 2008 6:06 PM:

" P.C.-you are the Sun Chronicle's Chris Berman. Crazy as you sound, I have to give you kudos for coming up with very clever names for other posters. It seems that you can be intentionally funny when you want to be. "

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Paul Couturier wrote on Oct 24, 2008 4:54 PM:

" And to Independent-HATING psycal; at least I'd raise my children to NOT be hate-filled poor excuses for human beings who DENY the UNDENIABLE scientific and medican evidence that what a pregnant woman is carrying in her uterus is a LIVING, BREATHING, HUMAN BEING!! "

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Paul Couturier wrote on Oct 24, 2008 4:52 PM:

" Sorry solo, but I'm NOT the crazy one here, I'm an open-minded INDEPENDENT!!!!!

I suppose you are one of those close-minded liberals who believes the stupid fairy tale that what a pregnant woman is carryinbg in her uterus isn't a baby, are you?????? "

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mmarcia wrote on Oct 24, 2008 4:13 PM:

" I think a lot of the posters here have missed the point (which I'm sorry I did earlier): this EMT, who is bound by the HIPPA law in keeping confidentiality has BROKEN THE LAW and put someones (Jane Does) medical business out in public. No matter what you believe, the issue remains about CONFIDENTIALITY. "

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hockeytown wrote on Oct 24, 2008 3:53 PM:

" Ladyalways ..I have a question for you and the rest of the pro choice people..
It takes two people to concieve..but the choice is only the womens? Both man and woman consented to having sex and now one or the other doesnt want the baby. The woman says I want to keep the baby and the man says he doesnt..dont matter what he wants he has to pay for that child no matter what..thats okay?? I think he should pay he took part in the making of the baby.. now the man wants the baby but the woman doesnt.. but he has no say in it??.. and what about what he has to live with?..knowing that the woman took a life he helped create away from him... Just doesnt seem right that its all the womans choice when it takes two ..either way she decides and the mans rights are ignored..but he pays either way as well..money and or mental health wise just like the woman..just food for thought.. "

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Southern View wrote on Oct 24, 2008 3:21 PM:

" We do not need to worry about terrorists attacking our country from the outside. We have groups of people like Planned Parenthood, the ACLU, and the US Supreme Court, who are destroying our country from the inside.

When you place no value on innocent life, what else matters? Why have respect for parents? Why care about drug abuse? Why care about healthcare? Why care about freedom? When you can "legally" kill an innocent life, what else matters? And for doctor's who take the oath, "first, do no harm", how do you live with that oath and your conscience? If you are a Christian, do you take communion? And yet you can condone killing a baby? "

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socal1 wrote on Oct 24, 2008 3:03 PM:

" Anna, what would be your opinion if the woman was an illegal alien and wanted to pay for her own abortion? Would you want her to have the child who would then be a legal citizen with all the rights of any other legal citizen? Would you allow the mother to stay in this country with legal status? Or would you want both mother and child sent back to mother's country of origin? "

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Patricia S. wrote on Oct 24, 2008 2:18 PM:

" A strong man with noble principles! Thank God for people like Stephen Marcotte. And for those who are so misinformed: scientifically proven - a human life is created at the moment of conception; its heart begins to beat in ten days; in the U.S. abortions can take place through the ninth month (yes, that is correct) and killing babies who can live outside the womb is infanticide. I praise and admire Mr. Marcotte. Would that our society had more like him .... and fewer women who shriek like demons to defend their "right: to kill their own children! "

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Anna DeMarinis wrote on Oct 24, 2008 1:01 PM:

" mmarcia's cruel and heartless post is incorrect. She wrote "One error in the article - the cellular tissue expelled is not a fetus but an EMBRYO! Nothing more."

That "cellular tissue," which I call a baby, is often "expelled" at 8 weeks or later. I don't have the exact statistics at hand, but I believe most abortions are performed around 8 - 12 weeks. Rarely does a woman even know she is pregnant before 5 or 6 weeks and it takes a few weeks to schedule the abortion. So in most cases, it is a fetus that is aborted, because at 8 weeks, the embryo becomes a fetus.

By the way, Barack Obama voted against giving medical treatment to viable babies who were born as a result of a botched abortion. Nothing the pro-abortion people can say (and they will tell you all sorts of falsehoods to justify his votes) alters that fact. Obama voted against giving life-saving medical treatment to live babies who survive an abortion, preferring instead to have them pitched into the medical waste bin to die of starvation and dehydration. Despicable. Even Barbara Boxer and Nancy Pelosi were on the right side of that decision. "

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eileenmarie wrote on Oct 24, 2008 12:52 PM:

" To Ladyalways: Yes, give me the children. We will find a home for all unwanted children. There are many people waiting for these precious lives. Don't kill your children! If you did it to an animal you would be in jail! Abortion hurts women, it changes their lives forever for the worse, ask them! My 22 yr old daughter died on the abortion table. Ask me. God bless the EMT Stephen M. "

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Civil Rights wrote on Oct 24, 2008 12:42 PM:

" Stephen Marcotte is an EMT. He saves lives. What else would he do but try to help the helpless? He prays because the laws allowing abortion are outrageous. The natural thing for any real man to do would be to put himself in the way of danger to save the baby and help the woman from making a huge mistake in her life. The laws won't allow it so he prays. God bless Firefighter Marcotte! "

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pkiefner wrote on Oct 24, 2008 12:18 PM:

" It makes me proud to read about fine people like Steve Marcotte who really care about other peole and have the courage to put that caring into action. Thanks you for letting your readres know about him! "

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RLincoln wrote on Oct 24, 2008 12:10 PM:

" To the morons who are criticizing the EMT for trying to get the patient's name: He said he was on a medical run, and therefore had to fill out a state medical report, which requires the patient's name. He was doing his job. The reason he did not mention the name in this article is because he knows his job - HIPAA laws and ethics prevent him from mentioning it. But he needed the patient's name for his report, and no one there knew it. "

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Mary H. wrote on Oct 24, 2008 11:39 AM:

" Marcotte and other 40 Days for Life volunteers are to be commended for peacefully and prayerfully trying to help women and their babies, who deserve better than abortion. It amazes me how venomous some readers can be when an article is about trying to save lives from "termination."
Here the guy's there on his own time, trying to help strangers with this prayer vigil, and readers can snipe about confidenciality laws, the man's ability to raise kids, etc. - any red herring - but fail to focus on the reality of what goes on in the clinic!
First of all, don't forget that this patient in the article needed medical help during a "safe, legal" abortion. Secondly, as an EMT, he just asked her first name to relate to her and calm her down, not to plaster it on the pages of the local paper months or years later, I'm sure.
Something has happened to the soul of our nation. How many critics of this firefighter would be more than happy to have him risk his own life in a burning building to save their pet?
I applaud the courage of pro-lifers who put themselves out of their comfort zone to help the least among us. Unless our right to life is secure, none of our rights are.
-Mary H. "

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life wrote on Oct 24, 2008 11:34 AM:

" It is wonderful to see a person touched by a situation and taking action. A prayerful action is one that so many miss now adays, we forget the need for prayer to lead us to help each other. In addition to prayer we must take action, there are pregnancy help centers that offer aid. One center is A Woman's Concern. They help the women with the unplanned pregnancy to determine if she is capable of raising her child or sharing her child with a mom and dad who want a child. Sharing your child with another couple is the most heroic gift a person can do. Let us not focus on the negatives but look to see how we can all help to reduce the number of abortions. Congratulations Steve on taking action and not just talking like so many others would do! "

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ricknkim wrote on Oct 24, 2008 11:07 AM:

" Robbiej - please re-read the article, Marcotte was on the emergency call - your conclusion is incorrect.

"I asked the patient's name, like I do on all medical runs, but nobody knew," Marcotte was quoted as saying. "

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capecodanne wrote on Oct 24, 2008 10:59 AM:

" Steve - God Bless you for your efforts in our goal of ending abortion. Those who criticize you just don't get it. Abortion is murder. Remember, you will answer to God in the end, not those who are mocking God's commandment. "

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robbiej wrote on Oct 24, 2008 10:40 AM:

" riknkim, you're right in one regard, EMT's ask their patient's their name so the EMT can help them. BUT, in this case, this EMT was NOT working, so she was NOT his patient, so your explanation about him and her name are incorrect. Patient confidentiality is important. If this patient was YOUR daughter, would you want this particular EMT blazing her name in his article for his sides' purpose?
I wouldn't, and I bet the 19 yr old wouldn't either. "

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mmarcia wrote on Oct 24, 2008 10:22 AM:

" One error in the article - the cellular tissue expelled is not a fetus but an EMBRYO! Nothing more. if, at that point in its "life" it wants to "live", then it should speak up and say so. "

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rach520 wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:56 AM:

" Yes, abortion is cruel but think of the poor women who have gone through with it. You have the abortion and you hate yourself for it. You live with that decision for the rest of your life. It eats away at you and you always wish you could go back in time, but you feel that you made the right choice. Yes, a baby was killed and that is wrong but so isn't having a baby that you know that you can't give the best life to. Do we really want more "unwanted" children in foster homes with the hopes that someone will love them and for those children to think "doesn't anyone want to love me?" Not all women that have abortions are "easy" and just want to get rid of a "mistake". A lot of woman are married with children already. Stay away from clinics. A troubled mother doesn't need to see obscene pictures of unborn babies before going through the most heartbreaking procedure. People are entitled to their views but don't throw your views into others faces. Those clincs are confidential for a reason. "

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Auk wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:40 AM:

" Thank you ricknkim for adding some sanity to this conversation. "

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ricknkim wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:31 AM:

" I think most of you are missing the point here: EMT's nearly always ask a patient's name, first name that is, so they can build a quick relationship to calm the patient in a difficult situation. Instead of barking orders and questions, the EMT will use their name to make it personal in hopes the patient will relax a little and trust the EMT doing their job. Some of your remarks are disgusting - "diddler" and "patient confidentiality"? Come now, your judgment is clouded by your bitterness towards someone with a differing opinion about an important life topic.

Both the pro-life "extremists" and pro-abortion "extremists" behave horribly. Grow-up and RESPECT someone's right to have a differing opinion. "

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mattryan5150 wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:26 AM:

" socal1- Do you know what is frightening? Killing an unborn child. "

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mattryan5150 wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:24 AM:

" It's nice to know that some people are willing to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves. "ladyalways" wrote: "You really need to see the entire picture...Life's picture." That's exactly the point. We are talking about a LIFE! To say that someone doesn't deserve a chance at life because the economy is weak is horrible. "

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tahraann wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:16 AM:

" good for mr. marcotte, he cares? about her name? he must be a diddler. "

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socal1 wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:04 AM:

" The thought of Paul raising a child is frightening. "

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sole wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:50 AM:

" Thank you ladyalways...Paul is what normal people call "a crazy"" Yes it's hard to ignore his comments, but we must try. I bet if you asked Paul...he would have NO ADOPTIVE CHILDREN. Most people like him don't, they are merely hipocrates who just love to get into everyone else's business and tell them how to live. "

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robbiej wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:39 AM:

" This EMT is worried about getting the woman's name, hmmm, isn't that supposed to be confidential?? Yes, it is! He is most likely ethically wrong to be discussing her confidential case, all the while whining because HE didn't catch her name. That's probably a good thing, as he might be slinging her name in this article if he knew it, instead of keeping her case, etc. confidential. Breach of ethics for EMT. "

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Paul Couturier wrote on Oct 24, 2008 7:59 AM:

" Hey "lady", what if the BABY decided that it wanted to LIVE????? Would you support the BABY'S choice to live????? And WHY IS IT that all you PRO-ABORTIONISTS want to turn this issue into an economic issue????????????

I'm REALLY pro-choice, except that I want the BABY to have the choice to decide it it wants to live or die a horrible, tortureous death at the end of an Electrolux vaccum cleaner! And last time I checked

And to Rick Foster, THANK YOU for exposing this SATANIC operation at this "clinic" where one out of every 2 people who enters through the front door NEVER COMES OPUT ALIVE!!!!!!! "

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HARRY HINDSIGHT wrote on Oct 24, 2008 7:48 AM:

" The article does not state that Marcotte had remorse for the fetus. He was only " bothered" by the fact that none knew the 19 year old's name. It seems he is a good professional that can keep seperate his personal feelings and his need to perform his job no matter who the person is or have done. Just know the name of the person you are calling 911 for, it helps with the paperwork.

Ever think the young woman wanted to be Jane Doe? "

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ladyalways wrote on Oct 24, 2008 7:31 AM:

" And another thing...as you so will be quoted...We're not just asking women to choose life; we're offering them support throughout their pregnancy," Marcotte said.
Well are you going to offer support after they get off welfare in two years..because that is all that they will have..to find a job, child care, housing..ect...Cann't afford to take care of themselves...How are they going to support a child..That basically you are demanding that they have..You really need to see the entire picture...Life's picture... "

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ladyalways wrote on Oct 24, 2008 7:26 AM:

" Are you going to support that child til it reaches 18 or 21 or for life...given the economy..I think that it is a women's choise...No I don't condone it..But it is a right...You probably know women that have had an abortion...You are just not a good enough friend to hear it directly...These women suffer with that decision the rest of their lives...What could have been...You are having a fast...All the money that you all save from not buying groceries..donate it to the women's shelters or any other organization...I bet you won't..You cann't afford it..So think first.. "

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