Hugs, tears, and profound gratitude filled the El Dorado Hills Fire Board meeting on January 15 as firefighter/paramedic Stacy Minnich was presented with a Life Saving Award—the highest recognition bestowed by the department. Minnich’s extraordinary act did not take place on an emergency scene, but in an operating room, where she donated a kidney to retired Stockton Fire Department Captain Oscar Barrera, saving his life. Her decision exemplifies the deep bond of the fire service and the compassion, courage, and selflessness that define those who serve. Click here to Read the Full Village Life in El Dorado Hills Article.