Pittsburg PA Loses a Long Time Dispatcher

911 CARES supporters,

Allegheny County 9-1-1 lost one of their long time employees. Pick up a card and send it to them or use the e-mail below to show your condolences.

Thanks! Kevin and the 911 CARES team

Activation:

For the past four years, one of our shift commanders, Jim Riggle at Allegheny County Emergency Services has been battling colon cancer.  From the beginning Jim has personified the message of courage and inspiration through adversity.

Through all the trials and crosses Jim had to bear, he never once complained.  He faced each day with silent courage hoping for a change in fate; realistically knowing that it wasn’t likely.  

His love for his work, the people of Allegheny County, was evident in his leadership style and his daily encouragement through CAD messages to our shift.  He had that unique leader quality of; support without interference; guiding without pushing; understanding without judging. 

Jim taught that we had the opportunity to be servants beyond that of what was required.  He taught that we can change people’s lives, even for one minute, through understanding and compassion each and every time we answered the phone.  He didn’t do this to be a part of the “management team” and he certainly did not do it to make himself look better …

He did this because he believed it and he lived it.  

 In his final e-mail to the employees in September, still inspiring and leading us he wrote; “Remember – at the end of your shift the only thing you have, is to look back, and know in your mind that you gave it your best!  I hope you were a difference maker in a positive way”.

 Jim passed away this past Wednesday, October 14, 2008 after a long and courageous battle. At the age of forty-two, he left behind a young wife (Tracy) and ten year old son, Nicholas.  In the end, Jim’s main concern was not for himself but for how his family would cope after his death; both emotionally and financially.

 A fund has been established in Jim’s memory for his son’s future education; “Nicholas Riggle College Fund”.  Those wishing to donate to that fund should send their donations to:

 Betsy Neel, 9-1-1 Quality Assurance
c/o:     Allegheny County Emergency Services
400 North Lexington Avenue, 2nd Floor
Pittsburgh, PA 15208

 For additional information, please contact:  Betsy Neel or Carol Janssen.

Thank You from a Grateful Father in Missouri