About Jay Rodriguez

 Having been born into a family of Doctors, my love of and fascination for Medicine started as early as I can remember. While working on my first Bachelor's at UTSA, I determined that my love for medicine outside of the hospital could best be utilized as a first responder. I then became the very first Paramedic in my entire family. I have been a practicing Paramedic for over 18 years the last ten of which have been as a critical care Paramedic.  

 

While completing a large independent study course on prehospital obstetrics for my second bachelor’s degree, at UTHSCSA, I came to the startling realization that there was a significant number of obstetrical issues I could realistically have to manage in the field but never received any training on in Paramedic school. This led to furthering my education, and training with Midwives, nurses, neonatologists, Obstetricians, and transport teams all over the state of Texas. During this time, I also became a proud birth and postpartum Doula, childbirth educator, and for the past 4 years has been a midwifery student. I have attended over 50 births in a variety of settings both in and out of the hospital.

 

I Have been married to my beautiful Wife Heather for 9 years. We left the Alamo city for several years as she pursued her Masters degree in Middle Eastern Studies at The University of Washington.  We live with Cricket our 9-year-old jet-black cat who we literally adopted on Friday the 13th! And Calliope our rambunctious calico. When we are not busy with work, school or study, Cricket enjoys a long nap, a good scratching to his post and a ribbon to "kill" and Calliope enjoys being predictably unpredictable. As for My Wife and I, dinner and a movie or simply exploring the wonders of South Texas is how we like to spend our down time. ​​

 

During my time in EMS I have been able to witness some of life's greatest triumphs and unfortunate tragedies, helping people from all walks of life and across all sections of society. Whether it is in the back of an ambulance, the birth room, or simply assisting someone across the street. However, I can help my fellow human I strive to do that. I can honestly think of no better way to be of assistance than helping a family welcome a new member to this planet, this tribe of man.  Having the honor to be able to say that I was there to bear witness on the day someone entered the world. However, being able to share my experiences and train my fellow first responders comes a very close second, and that is why I love my job.​​​