Toni Lavergne Blanchard, Lafayette, Louisiana – The community is deeply saddened by the passing of Toni Lavergne Blanchard, the Chief Flight Nurse and Education Supervisor at Acadian Air Med. Toni’s contributions to the field of emergency medical services and her unwavering commitment to her role have left an indelible mark on her colleagues, the community, and countless lives she touched.
Toni’s career with Acadian began in 1992 when she joined as an EMT. Her dedication to excellence and passion for patient care led her to Acadian Air Med in 2016, where she served as a certified flight registered nurse and flight paramedic before rising to the role of Chief Flight Nurse and Education Supervisor. In this role, she was responsible for overseeing critical aspects of flight nurse and paramedic education, ensuring the highest standards of care were met.
Reflecting on her impact, Program Director Marc Creswell stated, "Toni was the heart and the den mother of Air Med. She was always there for her staff to discuss problems or concerns while also helping each staff member uphold the highest expectations of performance. Toni made the biggest difference, particularly in taking orientation and training to its highest level, benefiting patients, the community, and Air Med as a whole."
On social media, friends and colleagues expressed their sorrow and shared memories of Toni. Brianna Reine posted, "This one is gonna take some time. There are no words that truly explain the special place you hold and the amazing woman you were. Toni had the biggest heart and was easily the most genuine woman I’ve ever met. To know her was to be loved by her."
Another friend, Erin O’Connor, shared, "My little guy lives in my work backpack. Toni was just an angel."
The outpouring of love and memories highlights the profound impact Toni had on those around her. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of dedication, compassion, and care will continue to resonate within the Air Med community and beyond.