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Archives: Stars

Haywad Yusufzai

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Haywad Yusufzai enjoys working in EMS because it allows him to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. As a first responder in critical situations, he is often the first to provide immediate medical care and comfort during emergencies. This pivotal role places him in dynamic, fast-paced environments where quick thinking and decisive action are crucial. The fast pace and constant challenges are especially rewarding for Haywad, who thrives in high-pressure situations and enjoys solving problems on the spot.

In February, Haywad will be celebrating his two-year anniversary at Armstrong, marking a significant milestone in his journey as an EMT. Initially drawn to the profession by his aspirations of becoming a firefighter, his fascination with fire trucks and equipment fueled his pursuit of EMT certification. Over time, his experiences have revealed a passion for patient interaction, and he is now enrolled in a Paramedic program which he is expected to complete this upcoming spring.

Beyond the adrenaline of the job, Haywad finds deep purpose and fulfillment in his role. Being directly involved in saving lives and helping people through their most vulnerable moments is a responsibility he holds close to his heart. He takes great pride in knowing that his work has a real impact, offering both medical care and emotional support when it’s needed most. For Haywad, EMS isn’t just a job—it’s a deeply fulfilling career that allows him to make a profound difference every day.

Haywad has earned the title “Star of Life” due to his exceptional growth and commitment to continuous improvement in both his skills and patient care. He often takes on the role of training new employees and has become a role model for incoming providers. Haywad always goes above and beyond to ensure his patients receive the highest quality care.

Amy Wollenburg

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Amy Wollenburg, Paramedic, as a Star of Life. Amy joined Mayo Clinic Ambulance in 2007 and has taken on various roles such as Emergency Medical Dispatcher, Paramedic, Field Training Officer, Community Paramedic, Assistant Supervisor, and Instructor. She serves in both our Austin/Albert Lea locations and our Education Department.

Amy’s nomination for the Star of Life Award highlights her exceptional dedication to helping others, whether it’s restocking an ambulance, covering a shift, or providing support to colleagues after difficult calls. Her actions reflect a deep sense of compassion, which positively impacts the well-being and experiences of everyone she interacts with.

Amy holds a bachelor’s degree in paramedicine and a certificate in EMS administration. In her free time, she enjoys outdoor activities, attending sporting events for her niece and nephew, and participating in high-intensity fitness classes.

Amy expressed her gratitude for being nominated for the Star of Life Award by her colleagues, emphasizing the significance of the recognition, especially coming from a dedicated team in Austin and Albert Lea. She draws inspiration from the unwavering commitment and compassion of her colleagues and feels privileged to work alongside them.

Amy believes that the award not only acknowledges her efforts but also symbolizes the collective strength, support, and camaraderie among the team in Austin and Albert Lea. She is thankful to be part of this group and is committed to upholding the high standards set by the team in delivering care and service to their patients. Dan Anger, Director of Education and Training, describes Amy as a devoted and compassionate paramedic who consistently goes above and beyond. Her dedication to patient care, quick thinking during critical situations, and steadfast support for her colleagues distinguish her in the field. Amy’s tireless efforts to uphold our primary value of the needs of the patient come first, as well as her role as a mentor for all staff, make her a deserving recipient of the Star of Life Award.

Paul Winter

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Paul Winter, a Paramedic and Field Training Officer with Hunter’s Ambulance Service, part of the Hartford HealthCare EMS Network, has been an integral part of the team since 2022. A military veteran and former Chicago Police Officer, Paul transitioned to EMS and earned his paramedic license in Connecticut in 2022. Since then, he has taken on the crucial roles of Paramedic Field Instructor and Field Training Officer.

Paul is being honored with the AAA Star of Life award because of his outstanding leadership and expertise as both a Paramedic and an FTO. He is one of the most trusted mentors within the organization, with new employees regularly turning to him for guidance and support. His deep knowledge, calm demeanor, and dedication to mentorship have earned him widespread respect from his peers, making him an invaluable member of the team. Paul’s commitment to patient care and professional development exemplifies the qualities that make him a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.

Andrew Watson

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Andrew Watson, Paramedic and Clinical Services Specialist, has been named EMSA’s 2024 Western Division Star of Life. Since joining EMSA three years ago, Andrew has made a lasting impact as a Paramedic who is deeply committed to his patients and achieving positive, healthy outcomes. In addition to his role as a Paramedic, Andrew has played a key role within the Clinical Services Department, where he has been instrumental in enhancing EMSA’s simulation program to better prepare team members for real-world scenarios.

Andrew was nominated as a Star of Life by numerous team members, all of whom recognized his dedication to EMSA’s mission of providing clinically superior care. One nomination highlighted his act of heroism in September, which resulted in saving the life of a community member experiencing a STEMI. The nomination read, “Andrew’s remarkable act of heroism epitomizes his unwavering commitment to patient-centered care. His quick thinking, expertise, and compassionate actions not only saved a life but also allowed our patient to continue to experience the joys of life with her loved ones.”

EMSA is proud to recognize Andrew Watson as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life, honoring his dedication, expertise, and commitment to both his patients and his team.

Richelle Treece

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Richelle Treece has been a dedicated member of REACT Ambulance Authority for over four years, currently serving as a Paramedic. With more than 26 years of experience in EMS, Richelle has worked in a variety of roles, including Dispatcher, EMT-Basic, Advanced EMT, and Paramedic. Her long career is marked by a steadfast commitment to providing high-quality care and serving her community.

In addition to her EMS career, Richelle has served her country for 36 years in the military and currently holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Oklahoma National Guard. Her service extends beyond EMS and the military, as she is also a Volunteer Firefighter, a school photographer, and engages in numerous other community volunteer efforts. Richelle’s diverse skill set even includes working part-time as a Surgical Scrub Tech in Labor and Delivery for 17 years at her local hospital.

Outside of her professional life, Richelle has shared meaningful travel experiences with her daughter and son, exploring incredible destinations such as Greece, Egypt, Italy, France, and England.

Richelle is described by her colleagues as professional, a team player, and someone with a positive attitude who embodies the very definition of a Star of Life. REACT Ambulance Authority is proud to name Richelle Treece our 2024 Star of Life, recognizing her exceptional dedication to her profession, her community, and her country.

Nicole Warren

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Nicole “Nikki” Warren is being recognized for her clinical skills and quick action that saved the lives of patients on two separate occasions.

The first, a motor vehicle crash where the patient was at first believed to be deceased, required rapid attention after a longer-than-expected extraction from the wreckage. En route to the hospital, the patient received blood products and post-intubation care as Nikki used all her clinical knowledge to keep the patient alive during the flight. Because of her extraordinary abilities, that individual survived and was eventually discharged.

In the second incident, a patient with a crossbow arrow in the leg required three units of blood, one unit of plasma, and multiple doses of epinephrine. Despite these ministrations, the patient went into cardiac arrest and compressions were started. Due to the extraordinary level of care exhibited during this patient’s flight, the patient managed to make a full recovery.

In both of these patient interventions, Nikki played an irreplaceable role in the survival of these individuals.

Lucie Walters

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Lucie Walters is a brilliant first responder who has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovative thinking, and an outstanding work ethic, earning the admiration of her leaders and peers at AirMed. Lucie has been the recipient of multiple awards, including the company’s Quarterly Safety Award and the Outstanding Employee of the Quarter Award.

Beyond her accolades, Lucie is being honored for her extraordinary composure and heroic actions after witnessing a shooting in a hotel parking lot while covering at the AEL base in Birmingham, Alabama. She provided critical aid to the victim by applying pressure to his wounds until emergency medical services arrived, ultimately helping to save the victim’s life. Lucie is a hero both on and off the clock, embodying the best qualities of a first responder.

Andrew Clei Varela

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Andrew Varela is being honored as a Star of Life for his exceptional dedication to the EMS industry and his exemplary performance in two critical emergency responses in 2023. In one instance, Andrew responded to a young boy who suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while riding his scooter. Andrew and his partner took over CPR, administered advanced life support, including defibrillation, and helped restore the boy’s pulse before his full recovery and discharge from the hospital. In another incident, Andrew and his trainee successfully revived a female patient in cardiac arrest at an urgent care clinic by performing CPR and using an EKG monitor to restore her pulse.

As a respected Field Training Officer, Andrew not only demonstrates clinical excellence but also leads and mentors new EMTs and paramedics, making him a well-deserving recipient of the 2024 Star of Life award.

Cynthia Torkelson

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Cynthia Torkelson is a dedicated Paramedic with Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance, deeply committed to the well-being of her patients. She always strives to provide the best care and continuously seeks opportunities to grow in her EMS career. Cynthia’s journey in healthcare began with her service as an EMR for the Monona Volunteer Ambulance in 2015, where she served for eight years before advancing to EMT and later earning her Paramedic certification in 2020.

Originally from Elkader, IA, Cynthia graduated from Central High School and then earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology Ecological and Systematics, with minors in German and Natural History and Interpretation, from the University of Northern Iowa. In 2022, Cynthia and her husband, Nick, both joined Gundersen Health System Ambulance in Prairie du Chien, where they have since become an integral part of the EMS community.

Cynthia’s compassionate approach and dedication to her patients have earned her respect among her peers. She is excited to continue her career in healthcare, constantly seeking new experiences and challenges to enhance her skills. Cynthia and Nick reside in Monona, IA, with their two sons, Andrew and Bennet. She is grateful for the opportunity to serve her community and for the recognition of her efforts.

Shane Terry

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Shane Terry, a nearly 20-year veteran with Air Evac Lifeteam, is an expert in emergency medical care, known for his ability to quickly assess and intervene in critical situations. His expertise has been particularly noted in two significant incidents: one involving a former AEL team member and the other, a child.

In the first instance, Shane was in an ER when a former team member experienced cardiac arrest. His quick thinking and skillful intervention, alongside ER staff, saved the individual’s life.

In another case, Shane responded to a call for a child in cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, he immediately recognized that the child’s airway tube was incorrectly placed. Shane reintubated the child and, recognizing the weather conditions were unsafe for flight, accompanied the ground unit to ensure the child received continuous care en route to the hospital.

Shane’s dedication to patient care and his ability to act swiftly in critical moments make him a standout in the field. His nearly two decades of service with Air Evac Lifeteam and his commitment to saving lives are why he is recognized as a 2024 Star of Life honoree.

Nikki Taylor

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Captain Nikki Taylor is a highly dedicated Paramedic and Field Supervisor with MEMS, where she has served for five years. As part of the MEMS Tiered Response System, Nikki plays a pivotal role in providing top-tier emergency care. She is also a Field Training Officer, regularly assisting with continuing education for the agency’s 400+ employees and instructing EMT and Paramedic courses.

In addition to her educational role, Nikki is cross-trained as a Scheduling Specialist and provides assistance with day-to-day scheduling when needed. As a member of the MEMS Honor Guard, Nikki honors emergency medical service providers across the state at memorials and funerals, and she also participates in recruiting fairs. Nikki’s cross-training as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher, along with her involvement in the Disaster Communication and Safety Teams, further showcases her versatility and dedication.

In 2024, Nikki led MEMS’s efforts to become certified under the National Prehospital Readiness Program Project, which involved certifying 62 ambulances for pediatric emergencies and updating education and competencies for MEMS providers. Her leadership in this initiative earned her the 2024 Pediatric Care Coordinator of the Year award from the Arkansas EMT Association.

Nikki has received numerous accolades for her work, including MEMS 2020 EMT of the Year, five Phoenix Awards, and the Medal of Valor for rescuing three people from an active structure fire in 2023. She also gives back to her community as a member of the Crystal Fire Department in Pulaski County, Arkansas.

MEMS proudly recognizes Captain Nikki Taylor as a 2024 American Ambulance Association Star of Life for her sustained superior performance and unwavering dedication to her profession.

Keri Taylor

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Keri Taylor has been selected by EMSA as the organization’s 2024 Administrative Star of Life. With a career in the medical field spanning 24 years, Keri joined EMSA 15 months ago as the Health Information Management Coordinator in the Patient Business Services Department. In this role, Keri works closely with law enforcement and other agencies to handle subpoenas and patient records, managing information requests with professionalism and efficiency.

Keri was nominated by her peers for her passion, dedication, and the positive attitude she brings to her work every day. Described as a helpful team player, Keri is always ready to assist others and shows empathy in every interaction, particularly when communicating about patient care. Her ability to foster strong relationships with outside agencies, such as law enforcement and attorneys, and her effective communication with other EMSA departments, make her a valued and respected member of the team.

Keri’s exemplary work ethic and compassionate approach have earned her this well-deserved recognition as a 2024 Star of Life.

Sam Sye

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

For nearly 15 years, Sam Sye has been the backbone of Tri-State Ambulance’s fleet and facilities management. His vast expertise in ambulance maintenance and repair has ensured a reliable and efficient fleet of 30 ambulances and support vehicles. Remarkably, until this year, Sam single-handedly maintained the entire fleet, managing everything from preventive maintenance to complete engine overhauls and even bodywork, particularly dealing with frequent deer strikes.

Beyond his work with the fleet, Sam oversees the maintenance of Tri-State Ambulance’s eight facilities. His dedication extends further, as Sam is also a licensed EMT and is always willing to step in and run on an ambulance when the demand for services is high.

Sam’s peers describe him as a dedicated, dependable, and indispensable member of the team. Known for his exceptional work ethic and commitment to patient care, Sam is “virtually never unreachable.” He consistently goes above and beyond, ensuring the fleet is always ready, even on his days off. As one colleague puts it, “Without Sam’s hard work and dedication, we would not be able to drive down the road.”

Sam’s commitment to the safety of the community, his colleagues, and his patients makes him a standout in the field of EMS, and Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance is proud to honor him as a 2024 Star of Life.

Savannah Steele Welch

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Savannah Steele Welch joined Acadian Ambulance in 2019. After earning a degree in Kinesiology from Louisiana Tech in 2016, Savannah embarked on an EMT course. She currently works as a Critical Care Transport Paramedic on the night shift in Ouachita Parish. In early 2024, she earned the role of Paramedic Field Supervisor.

Beyond her core duties, Savannah is esteemed as a mentor and field training officer. She garners respect from her colleagues, patients, and the local community.

In late 2022, she and her EMT partner earned Meritorious Service Awards for going above and beyond in rescuing a patient from a submerged vehicle, proving that EMS is both rescue and healthcare service.

In pursuit of professional growth, Savannah aims to acquire her Registered Nurse license, aspiring for dual licensure. A valued team member, Savannah is admired by many in her region. Her exceptional performance in handling challenging calls during her first year post-paramedic school earned her the moniker “black cloud”.

Outside of work, she takes pride in her role as a wife and mother to thirteen pets, including six chickens. During her leisure time, she enjoys horseback riding, attending concerts, and cherishing moments with her husband, friends, and family.

Allen Steele

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Allen Steele’s EMS journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to serving others. His career began in 1996 when he joined Lake Robinson Rescue as a volunteer, igniting a passion that would shape his life’s path. After earning his EMT certification in 1997, Allen embarked on a professional career that would span decades and cross continents.

In 2004, Allen’s commitment to service led him to join the United States Army as a Medic. He served his country with distinction for over a decade, including tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. These experiences honed his medical skills and instilled in him a deep understanding of the importance of calm and effective care in high-pressure situations.
Upon returning to civilian life in 2015, Allen brought his experience to Medshore Ambulance where he continued his work as an EMT and took on the role of Field Training Officer, sharing his knowledge and mentoring the next generation of EMS professionals.

Today, Allen Steele serves as an EMT Field Training Officer for Guardian Ambulance Service in Florence, South Carolina. His journey from volunteer to military medic to civilian EMT and trainer demonstrates a lifelong commitment to emergency medical services and public safety. Allen’s career is characterized by continuous growth, adaptability, and dedication to helping others in their most vulnerable moments. His experience in diverse and challenging environments and his passion for teaching make him an invaluable asset to the EMS community and a worthy nominee for the American Ambulance Association Stars of Life Award.

Jason Southard

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Jason Southard is recognized as a champion of life for his heroic actions in saving the life of a fellow first responder. While on shift, a paramedic colleague suffered a stroke, and Jason’s quick thinking and immediate intervention not only saved her life but also preserved her ability to continue her career, be a mother, and lead a normal life post-stroke.

The paramedic describes Jason as an “amazing person who always remains calm under pressure, incredibly humble and kind, and always available to lend a hand.” His life-saving actions not only impacted his colleague’s future but also ensured that many more lives would be saved through her continued work.

Jason’s calmness under pressure and compassionate service make him a deserving recipient of the 2024 Star of Life award.

Thomas Smith

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Tom Smith, Communications Manager, has been named EMSA’s 2024 Eastern Division Star of Life. Tom has been a member of the EMSA Team since 2016. Throughout his career in EMS, Tom has been an EMT, a Paramedic, a Systems Status Controller, a Communications Lead, and a Communications Supervisor.

Tom was nominated by his coworkers for the Star of Life for his consistent diligent work ethic and his ability to put the needs of EMSA ahead of anything else. Tom’s nomination highlighted his commitment to his Communications Center Team and EMSA’s values, “Tom works countless hours not only helping on the floor, but actively working to improve our relationships with the Western Division, Fire Departments, Police Departments, and other agencies. He strives to stay ahead of technology changes and data processing. He exemplifies our mission, vision, and values.”

Robin Smith

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Robin “Smitty” Smith has been an invaluable member of the First Call Ambulance team since 2015. Starting as a Paramedic in the field, Smitty’s commitment and passion for EMS quickly became evident, leading him to transition into a pivotal role in training and education. Today, he oversees the training of all employees, with a special focus on leading our EMT Academy.

Under Smitty’s leadership, the EMT Academy has flourished. His dedication to perfecting the art of teaching has resulted in outcomes that far exceed national standards. His last two academy classes achieved an impressive 100% pass rate on the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam, a remarkable feat that speaks to his skill as an educator. These results, well above the national average, reflect not just Smitty’s ability to prepare his students for exams but also his dedication to shaping highly competent providers who are ready to serve their communities.

Smitty’s impact extends beyond the classroom. His unwavering commitment to his students’ success has led to the creation of a new generation of EMTs who are prepared, confident, and skilled in providing lifesaving care. His passion for education and his genuine care for his students make him a standout leader in our organization.
When he’s not guiding the next wave of EMS professionals, Smitty enjoys relaxing on the golf course and cherishing time with his wife. First Call Ambulance is honored to recognize Robin “Smitty” Smith as our 2024 Star of Life, celebrating his exceptional contributions and dedication to the EMS profession.

Raquel Soto

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Raquel Soto is being recognized for her life-saving interaction with a suicidal patient. She and her partner, Howard Freeman, were the first to arrive on-scene for the call. An adult male was standing atop an eight-story parking structure indicating an intention to jump. Raquel made her way to the roof to establish contact with the patient and quickly established that the man was struggling with psychiatric and substance-used disorders and frustrated with failed treatment efforts, wanted to end his life. With support resources arriving at the ground level, Raquel established a rapport with the patient acknowledging that his struggle was real, and he was being heard. Over the next 20 minutes, Raquel displayed great empathy and ultimately convinced him that there were better solutions to his problems. She got him to step away from the ledge and allow EMS to transport him to the hospital, where he could receive treatment and take the first steps to mental health and recovery. This was an extraordinary, veteran-like demonstration of patient skills from an EMT with just five years on the job.

Chad Smith

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Chad Smith’s dedication to emergency medical services spans over two decades. He began his career as a Paramedic at Kunkel Ambulance in April 2003. Chad has demonstrated exceptional leadership and versatility throughout his tenure, progressing through roles including Field Paramedic, Training Officer, and Supervisor. In November 2016, he was promoted to Director of Operations Support, a title that understates his critical role as second-in-command at Kunkel Ambulance Service.

In his current position, Chad oversees a wide range of responsibilities crucial to the organization’s success. He serves as the primary point of contact for field supervisors and collaborates closely with corporate IT to manage technology issues across both Operations and Billing departments. Chad’s expertise extends to overseeing CAD systems, electronic charting, and controlled substances reporting, ensuring seamless operations and compliance.

Beyond his operational duties, Chad has maintained his New York State Certified Instructor Coordinator credentials, sharing his knowledge and field experience to train hundreds of successful NYS EMT candidates. His commitment to the EMS community is further exemplified by his role as Chair of the Midstate Regional Emergency Medical Services Council. Chad’s willingness to tackle any challenge, regardless of whether it falls within his official job description and his round-the-clock availability, makes him an invaluable asset to Kunkel Ambulance and a worthy recipient of the Stars of Life recognition.