Rebecca “Becky” Scott was a dedicated paramedic, EMT, and firefighter in Southern New Jersey. She was a loving daughter, sister, fiancé, cousin, niece, and friend to many. She was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in May of 2014, and fought for 18 months before passing away on October 27, 2015 at the age of 28.
Becky’s will to live was strong – when she found out she was diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer, she did not let it hold her back. She continued to live her life, working her normal shifts even during chemotherapy, and even working up until 12 days before her death. She travelled, attended concerts, ran races, and kept close with her family and friends. She truly epitomized the saying “live like you were dying” – she kept her spirit and tenacity for life alive, and refused to let cancer get the best of her.
Becky was engaged to be married to the love of her life, Matt, just 24 days after her passing – a love that knew no bounds, through sickness and hard times they stuck together until the very end. Becky was also a wonderful and loving daughter and sister – when Becky’s mother passed away from breast cancer in 2000, at the age of 12 Becky stepped up even without being asked, and took care of her younger siblings. She was a truly amazing person, always looking out for and caring for the needs of others (many times, even over her own needs). She was a kind and caring soul, one which was taken from this Earth way too soon.
Without question in the short time she was with us she made a significant impact. For one so young, she showed us true friendship and love – and most importantly she saved lives. Her dedication and service did not go unnoticed among her peers.
Before her passing and while in a hospital bed Becky was informed that she was being awarded the 2015 NJ Outstanding Paramedic of the Year by the NJ Department of Health Office of Emergency Medical Services.
After her passing the award was presented to her family at the 2015 EMS Awards Program at Harrah’s in Atlantic City, NJ.
Today, Becky’s memory is preserved in the hearts of those who knew her and were affected by her love, along with the Rebecca “Becky” Scott Scholarship Fund which is being offered to students in the Paramedic Sciences Field at Rowan College at Burlington County in Mount Laurel, New Jersey.
Becky left an imprint on the lives of everyone she came into contact with – she left this world too soon but if there’s anything that we can learn from her life here on this Earth, it’s that we should all live our lives a little more like Becky did. Without restraints or obstacles, keeping those we love close by at all times, caring for and looking out for the needs of others always, and never giving up our passion and love for life even when the odds are stacked against us.
Rest in Peace, Becky. You will forever be loved and missed.