💔 Paramedic’s Return to Work 15 Months After Assault 🚑
In a heart-wrenching tale of resilience and dedication, Paramedic Yael Barker is finally back to doing what she loves after 15 long months away. Attacked by a patient while just trying to do her job, Yael faced a harrowing journey of recovery both physically and emotionally.
Yael, 42, was assaulted in February 2025 outside the University Hospital of Wales. After informing a patient she would book them into the hospital, the patient violently attacked her, leaving Yael with severe injuries to her shoulder and emotional scars that ran deep. Unable to even hug her own children, her daily life was upturned.
Today, Yael is back on the front lines. She admits it will take time to rebuild her confidence, but the relief of resuming work and the passion for her profession are evident. “I even got excited to wake up at 4am!” she shared. Still undergoing treatment for her injuries, Yael’s journey is a testament to her strength and commitment.
This incident underscores the real risks faced by emergency workers daily. Yael calls for awareness, urging anyone dialling 999 to remember the humanity of the first responders: “When you call 999, it’s because you’re having a bad day, but that’s not an excuse to lash out.”
Teri Jones, the attacker, was sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for 18 months, a reminder that there are consequences for such violence.
🚨 “Enough is enough,” says Lee Brooks from the Welsh Ambulance Service. Assault on emergency workers will not go unpunished.
Let’s stand with Yael and all our emergency services heroes. 💪❤️
#SupportOurParamedics #ZeroTolerance #BraveYael