Firefighter Control talks about lifesaving career after battling rare disease
When Samuel Bell was a baby, he was only given months to live. If he did survive, doctors said he would face a lifetime of challenges.
When Samuel Bell was a baby, he was only given months to live. If he did survive, doctors said he would face a lifetime of challenges.
Born with Hirschsprung disease, a rare and serious bowel condition, Samuel defied all odds and now dedicates his life to helping others as a 999 call handler.
The 26-year-old, who is fed through a tube into his heart and carries a lifesaving kit in a backpack, now proudly serves as a Firefighter Control with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS).
Reflecting on what drove him to this career, Samuel, from Knightswood, Glasgow, said: “I have spent my whole life overcoming challenges, so being able to help others feels like a natural progression.
Every day is different, and every decision counts. You never know what the next call will bring, but you know it’s urgent.
“It’s an honour to be in a position to help others and be the light in the darkness.”
Dad-of-one Samuel joined SFRS as a Firefighter Control last year and is based at the Operations Control centre in Johnstone, Renfrewshire.
A Firefighter Control is the first point of contact for people during emergencies and can involve offering life-saving guidance to callers, communicating with firefighters responding to incidents, and helping to co-ordinate SFRS resources across Scotland.
Samuel explained: “Being a Firefighter Control is not just answering the phone, it’s about helping people.
“It is fast paced and can be high-pressured and emotionally intense.
“Every day is different, and every decision counts.
“You never know what the next call will bring, but you know it’s urgent.
“It’s a privilege to be able to work here. The training and support I have received have been instrumental in ensuring that I can perform well at my best.”
For Samuel, the role is deeply personal. He said: “I know what it’s like to feel vulnerable.
Now, almost a year into his new career, Samuel is encouraging people to consider following in his footsteps as SFRS currently recruits the next generation of Firefighter Control staff.
He said: “We need more people who care about helping others.
“The job is not easy, but the rewards are beyond anything you can imagine.”
Sam’s story serves as a reminder that challenges can be overcome.
Area Commander Control Jacqui MacDonald said: “I’m proud of Sam’s resilience, especially when facing personal challenges.
“Instead of letting it define him, he continues to thrive in his career.
“Sam’s story serves as a reminder that challenges can be overcome. We are seeking new recruits who share the same spirit of perseverance and help to improve people's lives.”
Applications for the role of Firefighter Control close on Tuesday, 1 October. More information can be found on the SFRS website.