Emergency medical technician Zoe Cox, who has earned five caps for England Deaf Women’s Rugby, presented her first England rugby shirt to London Ambulance Service paramedic Richard Webb Stevens during Deaf Awareness Week. This heartfelt gesture recognised Mr Webb Stevens’ vital mentorship after Ms Cox was diagnosed with severe hearing loss in 2020 amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Deaf Diagnosis Sparks Challenge
Ms Cox discovered her severe hearing loss when mask-wearing during the pandemic blocked lip-reading, a key communication method for her. Despite the diagnosis and now wearing hearing aids, she continues to excel both in emergency care and on the rugby pitch, having debuted for England Deaf Women’s Rugby in August 2024.
Mentor Brings Hope
Richard Webb Stevens, a paramedic with 27 years’ experience and the UK’s first deaf air ambulance paramedic, supported Ms Cox through her adjustment. Born with profound hearing loss himself, he is now a motorcycle paramedic and was awarded the Queen’s Ambulance Medal in 2022 for distinguished service.
Emotional Gift Exchange
Ms Cox said: “You’ve not only been a constant source of reassurance and strength, but also a true role model for the deaf community – showing what’s possible with compassion, dedication, and leadership.”
The two met for a moving reunion to mark Deaf Awareness Week (May 4-10), highlighting inclusion and the contributions of deaf professionals in the London Ambulance Service.
Impact On Ambulance Service
London Ambulance Service, the UK’s busiest, responds to over one million patients annually across nearly 600 ambulances, serving the capital’s nine million residents. Ms Cox’s story illustrates the importance of support and accessibility for hearing-impaired emergency staff.
