Toni Blanchard, Lafayette, LA – The Acadian Ambulance community and the wider medical field in Lafayette are reeling from the unexpected loss of Toni Blanchard, Chief Flight Nurse and Education Supervisor at Acadian Air Med. Toni passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at the age of 51, leaving behind a legacy of medical excellence, compassion, and dedication.
Toni began her career with Acadian in 1992 as an EMT and had been a crucial part of the Air Med team since 2016. She was known not only for her clinical expertise but also for her commitment to the education and professional development of flight nurses and paramedics. As Chief Flight Nurse, she was responsible for overseeing critical aspects of the Air Med operation, including the CAMTS education and credentialing requirements, the RN clinical practice clearance, and the auditing of flight nurse documentation.
Her colleagues described Toni as the "heart and den mother of Air Med," always there to support her team while ensuring they maintained the highest standards of care. Marc Creswell, Program Director, highlighted her immense impact on the organization, stating, "Some people can go through life wondering if they made a difference. But not Toni, she made the biggest difference."
The outpouring of tributes on social media underscores the deep void her passing has left. Rebecca Townsend Courville sent prayers to Toni’s son Bryson and described her as "a sweet, kind, and caring lady… one of a kind and will be missed by many." Similarly, Jerry Lingefelt III reflected on Toni’s character, calling her "one of the best humans I’ve ever met," while John Yevcak remembered her as "a true legend" who will be dearly missed by her Acadian family.
Toni’s contributions to medical education and patient care were profound. Her legacy continues to inspire those who had the privilege of working with her and the countless lives she touched through her dedication to healthcare. Funeral arrangements and details regarding Toni Blanchard’s obituary will be made available at a later date.