MRCU Officer Helps Resident Receive Urgent Care

“I was quite ill, and he noticed that I wasn’t breathing well at all. He insisted that he wasn’t going to leave until the ambulance arrived because no one else was there with me.”

What began as a routine mosquito control property inspection became a life changing encounter when Mosquito Research and Control Unit (MRCU) Disease Prevention Officer VonDante Leslie recognised that a resident was in need of urgent medical attention and took immediate action to help.

While conducting inspection activities in the community, Leslie noticed that the resident appeared unwell and was experiencing difficulty breathing. Concerned for her wellbeing, he contacted emergency services and remained by her side until paramedics arrived.

The resident, who asked to be identified only as “Ms. Viv,” believes the outcome could have been very different had Leslie not arrived when he did.

“I was quite ill, and he noticed that I wasn’t breathing well at all,” she recalled. “He insisted that he wasn’t going to leave until the ambulance arrived because no one else was there with me. Had he not turned up when he did, things could have gone way worse.”

For Ms. Viv, what stood out most was not only Leslie’s quick response, but the genuine care he showed throughout the experience.

In the days that followed, Leslie took the time to check on her wellbeing and ensure she was recovering. She said his follow-up meant just as much as the assistance he provided that day.

“It made me feel so proud to be able to speak with him again and tell him how much I appreciated what he did,” she said. “It showed that he genuinely cared.”

Having participated in CPR training herself, Ms. Viv understands the value of recognising when someone may be experiencing a medical emergency.

“It is so important for people to have this kind of training,” she said. “My situation could have gone much worse. He recognised that something wasn’t right before it became even more serious.”

MRCU Director Dr. Alan Wheeler said Leslie’s actions reflect the values that guide the department’s work every day.

“While our staff are best known for protecting public health through mosquito control and prevention activities, this incident highlights another important aspect of public service, caring for the people we serve,” said Dr. Wheeler. “Mr. Leslie recognised that someone in our community needed help, took action, and stayed with her until she was safely in the care of medical professionals. We are incredibly proud of him.”

Dr. Wheeler noted that MRCU staff receive training in First Aid, CPR and AED use as part of the department’s commitment to public safety and preparedness.

“This is a wonderful example of what people-centred public service looks like in practice,” he said. “Mr. Leslie was carrying out his regular duties when he recognised that a member of our community needed help. His actions reflect the values we strive to uphold as public servants and demonstrate how government employees can make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we serve.”

For Leslie, the recognition is appreciated but unnecessary.

“I was simply doing what I hope anyone would do in that situation,” he said. “When I realised something wasn’t right, my focus was on making sure she received the assistance she needed. I’m grateful she is doing better and wish her all the best.”

The incident serves as a reminder that public service often extends beyond the responsibilities listed in a job description. Sometimes, it is about being present, paying attention and taking action when a fellow community member needs help.

The Mosquito Research and Control Unit remains committed to protecting and improving public health across the Cayman Islands through mosquito surveillance, control operations, public education and community engagement.