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Archives: Stars

Daniel Schaefer

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Dan Schaefer, a dedicated EMS professional with over three decades of service, is being honored as a 2024 American Ambulance Association Star of Life. Dan’s career in emergency services began in 1985, volunteering on a local rural ambulance service before becoming a National Registry Emergency Medical Paramedic in 1993. Since then, he has served with Metro Area Ambulance Service, rising to his current role as Chief of Operations.

Dan’s impact on EMS extends far beyond his professional duties. He has played an instrumental role in improving EMS operations, patient care, and the work environment for his colleagues. His leadership helped guide the transition from 24-hour shifts to 12-hour flexing shifts, creating a better work-life balance for staff managing a high volume of calls. As Human Resources Director, Dan addressed the EMS provider shortage by creating flexible schedules and establishing a Peer Support and Chaplaincy program to enhance employee well-being.

Dan’s expertise also reaches across the state. As the North Dakota representative for the State Interoperability Executive Committee for 13 years, he chaired the Siren 20/20 project—a $200 million statewide radio system ensuring reliable communication for emergency services. He also serves on the advisory board at Bismarck State College for their Paramedic Program, playing a vital role in shaping future EMS professionals.

Dan’s volunteerism exemplifies his deep commitment to public service. As the Division Director of the Northern Division of the National Ski Patrol, Dan dedicates his time to ensuring the safety of skiers and snowboarders in North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming. He also leads the Bis/Man Cardiac Ready Community Program, which has placed over 250 AEDs throughout Bismarck/Mandan, providing critical life-saving equipment to a community of over 150,000 people.

Dan’s extensive contributions to the EMS field also include work with the North Dakota Department of Health, where he helped establish state EMS guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his service on the Dakota Zoo Management Board, where he assesses risk management strategies for the safety of visitors.

Through his leadership, commitment to public service, and dedication to the betterment of EMS across North Dakota, Dan Schaefer continues to make a profound impact on the community he serves. Metro Area Ambulance Service is proud to nominate Dan Schaefer for the 2024 Star of Life Award in recognition of his lifetime commitment to EMS, public safety, and volunteerism.

Brian Rogers

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Brian Rogers has been an Advanced Scope Paramedic with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio, Inc. since 2020. During his tenure, Brian has played an integral role as a Field Training Officer, guiding new hires through orientation and training. With a career spanning over three decades in emergency services, Brian began as an EMT in 1987, advanced to EMT-Intermediate in 1992, and became a certified Paramedic in 1998.

Brian’s extensive experience includes 37 years with the Springfield Fire Department in Richland County, Ohio, and 32 years with Mansfield Ambulance before joining Superior. In addition, he served in the transportation department of the local school system for 30 years.

Known for his leadership, professionalism, and clinical expertise, Brian consistently demonstrates the qualities of an EMS professional, holding his peers accountable and leading by example. He excels in high-pressure situations, bringing a positive attitude and a “whatever you need” approach to any challenge.

Outside of his professional life, Brian enjoys taking cruises, finding balance between his demanding career and personal life. His unwavering dedication to EMS continues to inspire those around him, making him a strong candidate for the Star of Life Award.

Kevin Rochford

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With more than 15 years of dedicated service as an EMS first responder, Kevin Rochford is being honored for his life-saving actions in January 2024, when he responded to a cardiac arrest involving a well-known community leader. Kevin’s quick and decisive intervention, which included administering multiple medications and performing defibrillations, led to the patient achieving ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation) after more than 30 minutes of effort. Thanks to Kevin’s expertise and persistence, the patient survived and has since returned to serving the community.

Known for his humility and commitment to lifelong learning, Kevin is actively pursuing courses to further his career in the medical field. His dedication to both his patients and his personal growth makes him a valued member of American Medical Response and a true asset to the Waco community.

Emily Robillard

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Emily Robillard was born and raised in the small town of Morganza, Louisiana, where she developed a deep love for the outdoors and a natural inclination to help others. This sense of purpose guided her to pursue higher education at Northwestern State University from 2000 to 2004. After college, Emily discovered her passion for emergency medical services, leading her to enroll in the East Baton Rouge EMS Paramedic Academy. In 2006, she earned her EMT certification, and just a year later, she became a certified Paramedic. This achievement marked the beginning of a long and rewarding career dedicated to serving her community.

In 2010, Emily transitioned into a communications role within EMS, a position she continues to hold with dedication and pride. Over the past 18-1/2 years, her career has been defined by her commitment to excellence and her unwavering dedication to public safety. Emily has become an integral part of the East Baton Rouge EMS team, not only in her communications role but also through her involvement in various key initiatives.

As a member of the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team, Emily provides vital support to her colleagues during challenging times, ensuring their emotional and mental well-being. Her compassionate nature extends to her role as a handler for Indie, the department’s beloved service dog, where she helps address the unique needs of her team. Emily’s passion for education is evident in her work as a CPR instructor and her role in training future EMS professionals as an instructor for EMR, EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic courses. Additionally, she serves as a skills examiner for Louisiana Bureau of EMS NREMT candidates.

Outside of her professional life, Emily is a woman of diverse interests. She loves to travel, attend concerts, and fish, embracing the adventures that life offers. Her creative spirit shines through in her hobbies, which include 3D printing, CNC machining, laser etching, and building things from scratch. Emily’s ability to combine creativity with precision is a testament to her resourcefulness and talent.

Perhaps one of Emily’s most endearing qualities is her deep love of animals. She has never met an animal she didn’t like, and it’s not uncommon for her to bring home a variety of creatures, whether it’s three baby cows, two goats, a box of chicks from Tractor Supply, a baby squirrel she found, or even a pet raccoon she “rescued” on the road. Her friends and family are never surprised by her latest animal companion, knowing that Emily’s heart is always open to caring for those in need.

Jon Jakob Peterson

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Jon Jakob Peterson, raised in Fargo, North Dakota, dedicated his life to the service of others through his work in emergency medical services. A graduate of Fargo North High School in 2007, Jon married his high school sweetheart, Samantha, two years later, and together they had two daughters, Sophia (14) and Abby (11). Jon’s family was his highest priority, and he was a proud supporter of his daughters’ activities and accomplishments.

Jon’s career began after exploring various jobs, including working as a cook and a parts delivery driver. His passion for healthcare was realized when, with Samantha’s encouragement, he enrolled in the EMT program at FM-Ambulance in 2011. Jon’s dedication to EMS became clear when he saved a motorcyclist’s life during a serious accident in a rural area. His quick thinking, using his belt as a tourniquet, and timely call to 911 resulted in the victim’s survival. This event solidified Jon’s commitment to EMS, leading him to complete the F-M Ambulance Paramedic program in 2012.

After joining F-M Ambulance in December 2012 as a Paramedic, Jon made a profound impact on the lives of his patients and colleagues. He became a backup telecommunicator in 2017 and has received numerous honors for his contributions. These include the Service Ribbon (2013), Preceptor of the Year (2015), Stork Award for delivering a baby in the field, and the Disaster Services Ribbon. In 2016, he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal and Star of the Year. Jon also earned the Critical Life Saver Ribbon twice, in 2019 and 2020, for his role in resuscitating cardiac arrest patients.

Jon’s leadership and dedication extend beyond the ambulance. In December 2023, he joined the North Dakota EMS Association Board, representing EMS from Sanford Ambulance and the Southeast Region of North Dakota. He also served as a liaison officer for Kindred Ambulance, offering education, training, and guidance to rural EMS providers. As a union steward for UFCW Local 1189, Jon was a strong advocate for his peers, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are protected. With his expertise, knowledge, compassion, and dedication to community service, Jon Jakob Peterson was a deserving candidate for the Stars of Life award, embodying the values of excellence and commitment in EMS.

Jon passed away on September 13, 2024, after a battle with illness. His love for his wife, Samantha, and daughters, Sophia and Abby, was the cornerstone of his life. A proud family man and Packers fan, Jon leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and service.

Michael Penna

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Michael Penna is being honored as a Star of Life for his extraordinary dedication and bravery in providing essential medical care in war-torn Ukraine. In early 2023, Mike embarked on a life-changing mission, volunteering with the aid organization Front Line Medics to deliver emergency medical services to rural villages in the Donetsk region. These villages were deeply impacted by the ongoing conflict with Russia, and Mike’s decision to volunteer exemplifies his commitment to the mission of Global Medical Response: to provide care to the world at a moment’s notice.

Upon arriving in the liberated villages of Eastern Ukraine, Mike was faced with the harsh realities of limited resources, damaged infrastructure, and constant air raid alerts. Despite these extreme challenges, he remained undeterred, adapting to the austere environment and improvising solutions to ensure that critical medical care reached those in desperate need.

Driven by a profound sense of duty and compassion, Mike willingly put himself in harm’s way to provide care in one of the most dangerous environments imaginable. His perseverance and commitment to delivering vital healthcare in the face of overwhelming adversity exemplify the highest standards of the EMS profession.

Michael Penna’s selfless actions and unwavering dedication to helping others in times of crisis make him a deserving honoree for the American Medical Response Stars of Life award.

Megan Overbeck

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Megan Overbeck is being recognized for her outstanding clinical excellence, diligence, and dedication to the EMS profession. In 2023, Megan responded to an impressive 1,993 calls and transported 1,559 patients, averaging 5.5 calls per day. During this period, she performed a remarkable 3,942 procedures, which included 767 IVs, 165 12-leads, eight intubations, and two needle decompressions. Additionally, she administered critical treatments, including DuoNeb, Fentanyl, and TXA.

Megan’s dedication to patient care is reflected not just in the volume of her work but in the quality of her results. She responded to 47 cardiac arrests in 2023, transporting 27 patients and achieving ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation) in 13 cases, including six clinical saves. Her success rate in cardiac arrests—27.7% ROSC and 36.4% of all cardiac arrests her operation responded to—far exceeds national averages, demonstrating her exceptional clinical skills and ability to make a life-saving difference.

Megan’s commitment to excellence and her extraordinary outcomes make her a deserving honoree for her contributions to the EMS profession.

Stacy Omdahl

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For over 30 years, Stacy Omdahl has dedicated herself to serving the rural communities of Roseau County, Minnesota. She began her career in 1994 with the then volunteer Roseau Ambulance, now LifeCare EMS, following the encouragement of a friend. Throughout her career, Stacy has remained a steadfast and invaluable part of the organization, offering her expertise and guidance to countless staff members who have come and gone over the years. As a historical anchor for LifeCare EMS, Stacy has played a vital role in preserving the organization’s traditions while adapting to the ever-changing nature of the EMS profession.

When reflecting on her career, Stacy takes great pride in giving back to the community where she grew up. For her patients, the familiarity of a known and friendly face brings an added sense of comfort during difficult moments. Her deep connection to her community drives her commitment to providing exceptional care.

Stacy is highly respected by both her colleagues and the community she serves. A hospital staff member shared, “When Stacy is on, I feel things run smoothly and efficiently, and she always has a smile on her face. Her priority is the patient and what is best for them. She is well-liked and respected in the community and serves as a mentor to others.” Stacy’s presence at community events, either representing LifeCare EMS or with her family, highlights her deep involvement and dedication to the people of Roseau.

Beyond her contributions as a mentor and role model in EMS practice, Stacy also promotes responder wellness, often seen walking around the hospital and EMS campus, setting a positive example for her peers.

Throughout numerous changes in the organization, Stacy has been a steadying force, demonstrating professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to her patients and community. Her 30 years of service stand as a testament to her commitment, making her a cherished member of LifeCare EMS and a role model for all who work alongside her.

Shellaine Novak

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PatientCare EMS is proud to honor Shellaine Novak as a 2024 American Ambulance Association Star of Life. With over 20 years of dedication to the EMS profession, Shellaine exemplifies the best that mobile healthcare has to offer. As the Clinical Services Director for PatientCare EMS in Sioux Falls, SD, Shellaine has worked diligently with system stakeholders to enhance patient outcomes, create a strong quality assurance environment, refine standard operating guidelines, reduce risk, promote safety, and deliver high-quality clinical education for employees.

Throughout her career, Shellaine has touched countless lives, providing compassionate care to her patients and fostering professional growth in her peers. She has played a pivotal role in training EMTs and paramedics, nurturing them into skilled and proud EMS providers. Before stepping into her current leadership role, Shellaine led a team of field training officers, driving improvements in the field training process. Even as Clinical Services Director, she continues to pick up shifts to maintain her direct patient care skills, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to her patients and team. She works closely with leadership and community partners to implement innovative improvements in EMS.

Beyond her professional achievements, Shellaine is recognized for her ability to inspire and uplift those around her. She consistently helps others succeed and reach their goals, fostering a positive and engaged culture through servant leadership. Her influence as a public service professional is felt throughout the organization, promoting personal and professional growth among her colleagues.

Shellaine’s dedication to guiding young EMTs and paramedics as they begin their careers is invaluable. She helps them navigate the challenges of the EMS field, paving the way for their success. Shellaine embodies the values of providing quality, compassionate care while inspiring others to do the same.

PatientCare EMS is honored to recognize Shellaine Novak as a 2024 American Ambulance Association Star of Life. Her continued impact on the organization, the Sioux Falls EMS system, and the broader EMS profession promises to be significant in the years to come.

Phillip Neff

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Phillip Neff has been a dedicated EMT at Falck Southern California for the past three years. Born and raised in Buena Park, California, Phillip developed a passion for medicine at a young age, learning as much as he could about sports medicine and dreaming of becoming a doctor. During high school, he gained valuable experience through an internship program at Kaiser Permanente, where he focused on clinical care.

Since starting his career at Falck, Phillip has worked diligently toward his goal of becoming a paramedic. He has embraced numerous opportunities to teach and mentor others, serving as a Field Training Officer and sharing his knowledge with the next generation of EMTs.

Phillip is being honored for his exceptional response during a challenging call involving a stroke patient. Not only did he correctly identify the patient’s condition, but he also advocated for them at the hospital, expediting care and likely reducing the chance of long-term deficits. His commitment to patient advocacy and clinical excellence exemplifies his dedication to EMS.

Phillip is happily engaged to his fiancée, Alexandrya, and continues to work toward his goal of advancing in the EMS field. His dedication, compassion, and leadership make him a deserving recipient of the Stars of Life award.

Adam Mysona

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Adam Mysona, an Emergency Medical Technician at Falck Rocky Mountain in Colorado, is recognized for his exceptional dedication to the field of emergency services. With a background that includes firefighting and EMS, Adam brings an organized and positive approach to every challenge, excelling in multitasking and team collaboration.

Adam’s commitment to excellence is evident in his role as a Field Instructor at Falck, where he goes above and beyond to prepare his trainees for success. He took the initiative to develop a specialized training packet, ensuring new providers are well-prepared and confident in their skills. As a member of the Safety Team, Adam actively contributes to enhancing workplace safety and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

In addition to his EMT duties, Adam serves as a Volunteer Firefighter with the Clear Creek Fire Authority, where he regularly participates in training sessions and drills to hone his firefighting skills. His proactive leadership and ability to manage high-pressure situations make him an invaluable asset to both his EMS and firefighting teams.

Adam’s contributions to the field have been recognized through multiple awards, including the SBES Career MVP of 2022 and Falck Employee of the Quarter for Q3 2023. His expertise in mass casualty incidents, triage, and scene safety, combined with his fluency in both English and Polish, allows him to serve diverse communities with confidence and compassion.

Despite balancing a rigorous college workload in preparation for paramedic training, Adam continues to give 100% to his role at Falck, always ready to lend a hand and take on new challenges. His dedication to patient care, team development, and community service exemplifies the core values of the EMS profession.

Adam Mysona’s passion for service and unwavering commitment to excellence make him a deserving recipient of the Stars of Life award. His leadership, integrity, and dedication to emergency services continue to positively impact both his team and the community he serves.

Scott Munoz

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Scott Munoz has been a dedicated member of Missoula Emergency Services since 1986, advancing through every level of EMT to his current role as a Critical Care Paramedic. Over the years, Scott has shared his extensive knowledge by teaching lectures, conducting training, and evaluating practical skills. In recent years, his primary focus has been on precepting students of all levels during their field clinicals, helping shape the next generation of EMS professionals.

Scott’s commitment to EMS extends beyond his role at Missoula Emergency Services. From 1997 to 2022, he volunteered with Frenchtown Fire, where he was one of the few volunteer paramedics in the district. His experience also includes four years with St. Patrick Hospital Life Flight in the early 1990s as a flight EMT, showcasing his expertise in critical care.

Scott’s EMS journey began in the early 1980s with Ravalli County Ambulance in Hamilton and Stevensville. In addition to his EMS work, he spent four years with the Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office, primarily working in the jail but occasionally assisting with dispatch. Scott then transitioned to Missoula County 9-1-1, where he spent 14 years starting as a dispatcher and rising to Shift Supervisor and Supervisor II in charge of training. He played a key role in developing and implementing training programs for new hires and seasoned dispatchers and was instrumental in launching Missoula’s first Computer Aided Dispatch and Emergency Medical Dispatch systems.

Scott Munoz’s extensive experience, commitment to training, and leadership in EMS make him a highly respected and valued member of Missoula Emergency Services.

Amber Munch

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Amber Munch was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, but she spent most of her formative years in Augusta, Georgia. Her journey into emergency medical services began after a brief stint at Louisiana State University. In 2019, Amber decided to channel her passion for helping others by earning her EMT-Basic certification, laying the foundation for a promising career in EMS.

Her drive to advance in the field led Amber to enroll in the East Baton Rouge EMS Training Academy, where she earned her Advanced EMT certification in 2023. For the past three years, Amber has been an integral part of the East Baton Rouge EMS team, consistently demonstrating her dedication and skill in serving the community.

Amber’s commitment to her professional growth is evident as she awaits news of her application to Paramedic school, a step that marks her continuous pursuit of excellence in emergency medical services. In addition to her regular duties, Amber is an active member of the Guideline Committee and is on track to join the Special Response Team and Bike Team upon completion of her training. These roles reflect her dedication to both her personal development and the well-being of her community.

Outside of work, Amber enjoys a rich and fulfilling personal life. She cherishes time spent with family and friends, often visiting them whenever she can. A self-proclaimed Costco enthusiast, she enjoys the thrill of shopping and finds joy in attending concerts. As the youngest of four siblings and the only girl, Amber shares a special bond with her family, particularly with her nieces and nephews. Her role as an “obsessed auntie” is one she holds dearly, bringing boundless energy and affection to her family gatherings. At home, she is the proud owner of a dog named Gary Potter, who adds even more warmth and joy to her life.

Amber Munch’s story is one of dedication, growth, and love—both for her work in EMS and for the family and friends who shape her world. As she continues to pursue her goals, Amber remains a devoted public servant and a cherished member of her community.

Michael Mitchell

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Michael Mitchell earned his EMT certification from Waubonsee Community College, where he was recognized on both the Dean’s and President’s lists. While his ultimate goal is to become a police officer, Michael began his EMS career in February 2024.

Michael and his partner are being recognized as Stars of Life recipients for their life-saving actions during a critical incident. While stopped at a red light, they were approached by an off-duty police officer carrying a pediatric patient who had been shot. Thanks to their quick response, the crew was able to initiate life-saving measures and transport the infant to the nearest trauma center. This event highlights Michael’s dedication and skill in emergency medical services, demonstrating his commitment to providing exceptional care in the most challenging situations.

Loren Mitchell

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Loren Mitchell has been a dedicated Paramedic with Tri-State Ambulance for more than ten years. During this time, Loren’s passion and commitment have propelled him into several key roles, including Preceptor, Field Training Officer, Shift Leader, and ultimately Operations Supervisor with a focus on Clinical Services. His clinical expertise, dedication, and compassionate care have set a remarkable standard within Tri-State Ambulance.

Loren consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty, demonstrating unwavering commitment to saving lives and providing top-notch medical care. His ability to remain calm under pressure inspires confidence in both patients and colleagues, making him a trusted and respected figure in the organization.

Known for his infectious laughter and sense of humor, Loren brightens even the most difficult moments, spreading positivity and joy among his peers. He is a practical thinker who goes out of his way to make new employees feel welcome, ensuring that the team functions cohesively and with confidence.

Loren’s patients receive not only the highest quality medical care but also a compassionate touch that helps alleviate fear and anxiety. His exceptional communication skills foster a positive and reassuring environment, bridging the gap between patients, families, and the medical team.

Loren also excels as a leader, readily sharing his knowledge and experience with fellow paramedics and EMTs, which enhances the overall competency of the team. His dedication to ongoing education and training is reflected in his consistently outstanding performance, setting the highest standards of paramedic practice.

In recognition of his tireless efforts, exemplary patient care, and unwavering commitment to the field of paramedicine, it is an honor to have Loren represent Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance as a 2024 Star of Life.

Amanda McQuistian

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Amanda McQuistian embodies exceptional leadership in emergency medical services, evidenced by her 14-year career and current role as a Paramedic and Director of Operations at LifeCare Medical Transports. With seven years in leadership positions, Amanda has consistently elevated patient care and organizational excellence standards. Her hands-on approach and commitment to treating all tasks equally have fostered a culture of professionalism permeating every level of the organization. As an education coordinator, Amanda ensures her staff maintains certifications while providing additional training opportunities, demonstrating her dedication to nurturing the next generation of EMS professionals.

Amanda leads from the front, playing an active role in the organization’s everyday running by putting boots on the ground. She takes her time to ensure employees feel valued and appreciated for their hard work. Amanda has delivered positive changes year after year, helping improve quality assurance and patient care. Amanda’s impact on LifeCare Medical Transports is substantial, driving continuous quality assurance and patient care improvements. Her leadership was instrumental in LifeCare achieving the “Outstanding EMS Agency” award from the Tidewater EMS Council in 2022. Recently, Amanda was honored with the 2024 Russel Lowrey, Jr. Award for Outstanding EMS Leadership by the Peninsula Emergency Medical Service Council, recognizing her influence in the broader EMS community.

Amanda’s academic achievements complement her practical experience in EMS. She holds an Associate of Applied Science in Emergency Medical Services and teaches at Virginia Peninsula Community College. Her Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration and minor in Management from Old Dominion University uniquely position her to drive innovation and excellence in EMS.

Amanda’s commitment to community engagement extends beyond her professional achievements. She captains a beach volleyball team and organizes charity tournaments for various causes. Her recent volunteer work at the National EMS Memorial Service is a testament to her compassion for the EMS community. Amanda’s tireless efforts and dedication make her an outstanding example of an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Eli Melamed

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Eli Melamed went above and beyond the call of duty when he risked his own safety to care for a patient trapped in a burning vehicle following a fiery car crash in May 2024. Along with his partner, Alyssa Meier, Eli responded to the scene and together they worked to extricate the patient—who was on fire—from the driver’s side of the vehicle, putting their own safety on the line in the process.

After successfully removing the patient from the vehicle, Eli and Alyssa provided critical care to the patient, who was in and out of cardiac arrest. Their swift actions helped stabilize the patient enough for a transfer of care to a flight team, enabling the patient to be flown to a local trauma center.

Eli’s bravery and commitment in such a life-threatening situation demonstrate his exceptional dedication to his work as a Paramedic and to the safety and well-being of his patients.

Alyssa Meier

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Alyssa Meier demonstrated immense courage and dedication when she put her own welfare aside to care for a patient trapped in a burning vehicle following a fiery car crash in May 2024. Alyssa, along with her partner Eli Melamed, arrived on scene and immediately assisted in extricating the patient—who was on fire—from the driver’s side of the vehicle, significantly risking their own safety in the process.

Once the patient was out of the vehicle, Alyssa and Eli provided critical care to the patient, who was in and out of cardiac arrest. Through their swift actions, they were able to stabilize the patient enough for a successful transfer of care to a flight team, enabling the patient to be transported to a local trauma center.

Alyssa’s bravery and commitment to patient care in such a dangerous situation highlight the dedication and heroism that define her work in EMS.

Maurice Matthews

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Maurice Matthews is being honored by Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Michigan for his outstanding contributions to the EMS profession over 46 years of dedicated service. Maurice has continuously served the Metro Detroit area since launching his career in 1978. He began as an Ambulance Attendant, then became an EMT in 1979, a Paramedic in 1986, and a Critical Care Paramedic in 2007. In 2021, Superior was fortunate to have Maurice join the team, where he continues to provide exceptional patient care.

Maurice is known not only for his clinical expertise but also for his role as an exceptional mentor and co-worker. Throughout his career, he has cared for thousands of sick and injured patients and has trained dozens of Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics. When asked what he enjoys most about the EMS profession, Maurice said he values every aspect of the job—from patient care to taking pride in the rig and training new personnel.

Outside of EMS, Maurice enjoys hunting and spending time with his wife and three children. Superior is proud to honor Maurice Matthews as our 2024 Star of Life.

Don Marr

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Don Marr has served his community through EMS and EMS education for more than 40 years. During that time, he has held the positions of EMS Program Coordinator and Lead Instructor at Southwestern Oregon Community College, Training Officer for Bay Cities Ambulance, Education Specialist at Bay Area Hospital, Senior NCO for the Oregon Army National Guard Medical Training Team, and Emergency Medical Response Coordinator for the US Navy in the Emergency Management Office at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, home of the 5th Fleet.

Don has been a guest instructor in the two medical schools in Lithuania as a team member providing the first ACLS training in Lithuania, and at the medical school in Bahrain mentoring the instructors setting up and providing the first Pediatric Advanced Life Support training and certification in Bahrain. While in Bahrain Don taught the “Medical Response to Weapons of Mass Destruction Course” to US Navy medical personnel and doctors, nurses, and Paramedics from Salmaniya Medical Center, Bahrain. Don is currently a Paramedic and Paramedic Preceptor at Bay Cities Ambulance.

Don enjoys going on long-distance motorcycle ride as well as helping his wife of 43 years with her collection of chickens, ducks, and geese.

Thank you, Don Marr, for all that you do to support Bay Cities Ambulance and the communities we serve.