David was an advanced emergency medical technician, level II, employed by Seaway Valley Ambulance for five years before his death on February 2, 1990.<br />
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On that day Seaway Ambulance received a call from a woman who could not wake her husband. Fearing the worst, David responded to the call with his unit and transported the cardiac patient to a local hospital. After arriving at the hospital and working with medical personnel to assist the patient, David excused himself to go wash his hands. Afterward crew members realized he had not returned to complete paperwork or restock supplies. David was found in the back of the ambulance with a stethoscope around his neck. Crew members believe he knew he was ill and was checking his own heartbeat when he collapsed and died.<br />
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David L. La Baff was dedicated to his patient to the end, and gave his life rather than have care and attention taken away from another in need. David was 30 years old.<br />
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Honored 1994 |