VB rescue squad in need of help

A Virginia Beach rescue squad is need of help. The November nor'easter ruined their building. The high winds and flooding proved to be too much for the building off of Shore Drive.

On Friday, volunteers with the Ocean Park Rescue Squad headed out on another call.

"The goal for us is to help other people in what could be their worst day of their life," said paramedic Brian Ledwell.

But now, because of last week's storm, work isn't so easy. Crew members say the storm was different than any other.

"I've seen close to the damage that was done, but never as much as this," Ledwell added.

"I cried," EMT Debbie Joyner said. "This is our home away from home. We've put blood, sweat and tears into making this work."

The storm left its mark. Ceiling tiles are sagging. Those that aren't have already fallen to the floor. Fans work to dry the standing water and the bay doors will no longer open.

"Cars passing by created a wake and pretty much buckled the doors in," Ledwell said.

The squad building on Shore Drive was built in the 1930s. It's not owned by the city and insurance won't cover all the damage.

"It will devastate our operational budget," Ledwell added. "That's where we will have to get the money from for recovery and rebuilding."

Now, it's the rescue squad that needs rescuing. You see, almost all the budget relies on donations.

"It's a very big mess," Ledwell added.

As the calls continue, some of the squad's gear is being stored at other stations. The clean up is just beginning.

"We need help," Joyner added. "We want to be there and we are continuing to be there. Nothing stops us!"

Not even a storm. Everyone will keep helping those in need, because that's what they do.

"We love it," Joyner said.

If you want to donate to the rescue squad you can give the Ocean Park station a call at 464-0594. You can also do it online though their web site by clicking here .