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Archives: Stars

Robert Hatzikonstantis

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Robert “Bobby” Hatzikonstantis joined EMS to gain firsthand experience in healthcare, choosing a field that combines unique challenges with the opportunity to help people in critical moments. From the very beginning, Bobby was drawn to the fast-paced, unpredictable nature of EMS, where quick thinking and decisive action are essential. The ability to make a real-time difference in people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments has been deeply rewarding for him.

Bobby finds immense purpose and fulfillment in the hands-on nature of his work and in serving his community. He often reflects on the significance of providing both medical care and emotional support to people on their worst days. The chance to bring comfort and reassurance during moments of crisis has been the most impactful and gratifying work of his life.

Over the years, Bobby has also forged lifelong relationships with his coworkers, partners, and managers, whom he considers a second family. The camaraderie and sense of belonging he’s found at Armstrong Ambulance have been invaluable, providing him with support and a close-knit community that shares a common mission.

Bobby has earned recognition as a Star of Life for his unwavering dedication to supporting his coworkers and his eagerness to mentor and teach others. He creates a welcoming atmosphere for new employees and fosters a collaborative learning environment. Many team members look to Bobby for guidance, knowing he is always willing to lend a helping hand. His leadership, compassion, and commitment to both his patients and colleagues make him a true asset to the EMS profession.

Josh Harrington

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Josh Harrington has over nine years of first responder experience, including eight years in EMS, during which he has consistently demonstrated commitment, passion, and leadership. Since joining Sunstar Paramedics in 2022, Josh has quickly become an invaluable team member. Beginning as a Paramedic and Preceptor/Field Training Officer, his dedication to growth and his profession led to his promotion to Assistant Field Operations Supervisor. Josh’s leadership has greatly contributed to the success of the team, and his involvement in the Critical Care Team showcases his advanced clinical skills and ability to handle high-pressure situations.

Josh’s EMS career began as a Firefighter/EMT with the Airport Sorgho Fire Department in Kentucky, followed by key roles as a Paramedic, Field Supervisor, and Clinical Educator at Medical Center EMS. His rapid rise to leadership roles across multiple organizations is a testament to his work ethic, problem-solving abilities, and passion for teaching and mentoring others. Josh’s commitment to sharing his knowledge has positively impacted the professional growth of many EMS colleagues.

Alongside his practical experience, Josh holds an Associate Degree in Applied Science and a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Care. His academic achievements, paired with certifications in advanced life support, pediatric care, and hazardous materials, ensure that he stays at the forefront of emergency medical services.

Josh embodies the core values of EMS excellence—compassion, innovation, and leadership. His ability to teach, adapt, and deliver exceptional patient care while leading his team with humility and confidence makes him a shining example of the qualities recognized by the Star of Life Award.

It is with great pride and enthusiasm that Sunstar Paramedics recognizes Josh Harrington as an American Ambulance Association 2024 Star of Life Award. His unwavering commitment to EMS and his positive influence on those around him make him truly deserving of this prestigious recognition.

Kayleen Harding

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Kayleen Harding, originally from Rocky Boy, Montana, began her EMT journey in 2022. After her family relocated to the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming, Kayleen felt a strong calling to give back to her new community. In November 2022, she joined the local EMS team and has since dedicated herself to improving communication between tribal members and EMS professionals.

Kayleen understands the crucial role that effective communication plays in fostering trust and collaboration across cultures. Her commitment to bridging these gaps was highlighted when she organized a booth at the Eastern Shoshone Pow Wow, where she showcased her skills as an athletic trainer. By finding common ground between the two cultures, she secured EMS standby services for the event. Kayleen used the opportunity to educate both tribal members and her colleagues on cultural differences, promoting mutual understanding and respect.

In addition to her work as an EMT, Kayleen is pursuing a degree in Kinesiology, further demonstrating her commitment to enhancing her skills and expanding her ability to serve her community.

Scotland Hamlin

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Scotland Hamlin, a Field Training Officer and Emergency Medical Technician with American Medical Response in Orlando, Florida, is recognized for his dependability, skill, and unwavering commitment to the EMS profession. Known for his hardworking nature and dedication, Scotland has demonstrated time and again that he is willing to go above and beyond for his patients and fellow first responders—even on his days off.

In November of last year, Scotland exemplified his dedication when, while off duty, he noticed an AMR ambulance parked along the road with its emergency lights activated. Without hesitation, he stopped to investigate and found both crew members in the back of the ambulance struggling to manage a combative behavioral patient. Scotland immediately jumped into action, helping the crew regain control of the situation. He then notified the on-duty operations supervisor and continued to assist with the patient’s transport to the behavioral center.

Scotland’s actions reflect his strong commitment to the EMS Guiding Principles of teamwork and patient care. He is an exemplary EMS professional who consistently steps up when needed, ensuring the safety and well-being of both his patients and colleagues. His dedication to his role and his team make him a standout first responder, and American Medical Response is proud to recognize Scotland Hamlin for his outstanding service.

Diamond Hall

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Diamond Hall, an Emergency Medical Technician with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Illinois, is being recognized for her exemplary dedication to public service and her remarkable life-saving actions. A graduate of Oak Park River Forest High School, Diamond went on to complete her EMT training at Illinois Central College, where she was a member of the honors society and earned two academic scholarships. Her commitment to public service extends beyond EMS, as her ultimate goal is to become a police officer.

Diamond and her partner are being honored as Stars of Life for their swift and heroic response to a critical situation. While stopped at a red light, an off-duty police officer approached their ambulance carrying a pediatric patient who had been shot. Thanks to their quick thinking and immediate life-saving interventions, Diamond and her team were able to stabilize the infant and transport them to the nearest trauma center. This incident is a powerful example of Diamond’s skill, composure, and dedication to Emergency Medical Services.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Diamond Hall as a 2024 Star of Life for her unwavering commitment to saving lives and serving her community.

Kenneth Guzman

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Kenneth Guzman, a Paramedic with Northwell Health System Center for EMS, began his career in EMS in 1997 field by a passion for helping others. After becoming a Paramedic in 2001, he started working at Lenox Hill Hospital and has remained dedicated to patient care ever since. Kenneth’s love for the profession continues to drive him, and he takes pride in being the first on scene, ready to make a difference. Throughout his career, he has worked primarily in New York City as a 911 Paramedic, positively impacting countless patients.

One of Kenneth’s most memorable cases involved a young woman experiencing an asthma exacerbation who went into cardiac arrest. After 20 minutes in asystole, Kenneth and his partner made the decision to transport her to the hospital. En route, they managed to obtain ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation), and the hospital staff were deeply impressed with the care provided. The patient later praised Kenneth and his partner for saving her life, a testament to his determination and patient advocacy.

In addition to his EMS career, Kenneth served 20 years in the Navy Reserves, where his desire to serve led him to deploy to several countries, including Iraq and Germany. As a corpsman, his primary role was to provide medical care, and his commitment to both his country and his patients is truly honorable.

Kenneth is a proud father of two daughters, one of whom has followed in his footsteps, working alongside him at Lenox Hill Hospital. In his free time, Kenneth enjoys skiing, mountain biking, running, and is always up for a competitive game of video games.

Northwell Health is proud to honor Kenneth Guzman as a 2024 American Ambulance Association Star of Life, celebrating his exceptional contributions to EMS and his community.

Jessup Grogan

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Sergeant Jessup Grogan, a Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician-Basic, is in his fifth year with Metropolitan Emergency Medical Services (MEMS) in Little Rock, Arkansas. Serving as a Lead EMT on a Basic Life Support ambulance in the MEMS Tiered Response System, Jessup has become an essential figure in the organization.

In addition to his work in the field, Jessup is a Field Training Officer, often found in the Training Department assisting with EMT courses, geography studies, and continuing education for MEMS’ 400+ employees. He is also cross-trained as a Scheduling Specialist, helping with day-to-day operations as needed. As a member of the MEMS Honor Guard, Jessup regularly honors EMS providers at memorial services and funerals across the state and represents the EMS profession at various events and recruiting fairs.

Outside of work, Jessup enjoys spending time with his wife, Morgan, who is an Emergency Medical Dispatcher at MEMS, proving that field crews and dispatchers can actually get along. The couple recently celebrated their second anniversary. In his free time, Jessup enjoys reading, model building, playing Dungeons and Dragons, fishing, hunting, and staying active in his church, Dwelling Place Ministries in Little Rock.

Jessup’s commitment to EMS is clear, as he often tells the new employees he trains that his purpose at MEMS is to “broaden, improve, and further EMS as a public service.” His positive “can-do” attitude, leadership, and dedication to his peers and community make Jessup Grogan an outstanding recipient of the 2024 American Ambulance Association Star of Life Award. MEMS is proud to honor his contributions and leadership.

Jacob Gilmore

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Jacob Gilmore, an EMT with Mohawk Ambulance Service since 2021, has been immersed in the world of EMS for as long as he can remember. Inspired by his father, a Paramedic and leader in the EMS community, Jacob grew up surrounded by the ambulances, equipment, and the warm, family-like culture of the station. From an early age, he eagerly participated in company events, such as holiday parades and Mohawk’s Covid-19 Vaccine Clinics, which solidified his passion for the field.

Jacob’s formal journey in EMS began as a dispatch intern with Mohawk, and at just 17 years old, while still attending high school full-time, he enrolled in the company’s evening EMT class. In the two years since earning his diploma, Jacob has grown into a conscientious and trusted provider. His leadership skills have shone through as a Field Training Officer (FTO) and a well-respected Lab Instructor with Mohawk’s Education Center.

Always striving to advance his education and skills, Jacob is currently studying Paramedicine with plans to pursue his critical care certification, EMS nursing, and leadership and management in EMS. His dedication to the field and passion for continuous improvement make him a true asset to Mohawk Ambulance Service, and the company eagerly anticipates his continued success.

Craig Gesterling

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Craig Gesterling, Shift Commander and Paramedic at Sunstar Paramedics, has been a key figure in the organization since joining in 2005. His exceptional leadership, tireless work ethic, and innovative thinking have had a profound impact on both field staff and operations. Craig’s dedication to mobile healthcare, combined with his expertise in business administration and information technology, makes him a standout candidate for national recognition.

Craig holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and IT, which he seamlessly incorporates into his role. His ability to manage field operations, communications, and materials departments has been instrumental in ensuring smooth operations at Sunstar. One of his most notable accomplishments is leading the transition from paper-based processes to an electronic system with a streamlined reporting structure. This transformation has not only improved efficiency and reduced errors but also enabled staff to focus more on patient care, enhancing overall service delivery.

Beyond operational improvements, Craig is highly respected for his clinical expertise and has earned numerous commendations from patients, hospitals, and peers, as well as recognition from Pinellas County Medical Control. His leadership extends to training and mentoring through his roles as a Preceptor and Field Training Officer, where he has contributed significantly to the growth and development of his colleagues.

Craig’s combination of clinical knowledge, leadership skills, and forward-thinking initiatives embody the spirit of the Star of Life Award. He is an invaluable asset to Sunstar Paramedics, and his efforts continue to inspire and elevate the EMS community.

Hope Garrison

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Hope Garrison has dedicated her life to emergency medical services, following the path set by her parents, both of whom were Paramedics. Her journey began early—at just 6 years old, she confidently told her mother she would one day become a Paramedic. As a teenager, Hope rode along with her parents on the ambulance, and upon graduating high school, she immediately pursued her EMT and Paramedic certifications, starting what has become a remarkable and fulfilling career.

Hope joined LifeNet in 2014 as a Paramedic and quickly showcased her passion and commitment to her community and patients. By 2018, she earned the role of Field Training Officer (FTO), where she mentored and guided new medics. In 2019, she advanced to Operations Supervisor in Hot Springs Village, and in 2022, she was promoted to Hot Springs Operations Manager. In this role, she leads her team with the same care and dedication she has always shown her patients and colleagues.

Throughout her career, Hope has taken pride in treating her patients and their families with the compassion and respect she would offer her own family. The first time she was alone in the back of an ambulance, she felt the immense responsibility of her role, further solidifying her deep commitment to serving her community and helping people through the worst moments of their lives.

Being recognized as Arkansas’ 2024 Star of Life came as a surprise to Hope. She humbly attributes her success to simply doing her best every day, hoping to make a positive impact on the lives of her patients, their families, and her colleagues. Knowing that her peers nominated her for this prestigious award is an incredible honor and a testament to the impact she has made in her field.

When she’s not managing operations or responding to emergencies, Hope enjoys spending time with her children, grandson, boyfriend, family, and friends—cherishing every moment with her loved ones.

Jorge Garcia

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Jorge Garcia, an Emergency Medical Technician at Umpqua Valley Ambulance, joined the EMS profession in 2019. He is currently completing Paramedic School, furthering his passion for caring for his community—a passion he has nurtured from a young age. Initially finding his calling as a Pastor in his church, Jorge later expanded his service to the medical field, where he continues to make a significant impact.

In addition to his EMT career and paramedic studies, Jorge remains active in his church, volunteers with his local Fire Department, and enjoys experimenting with cooking. He’s particularly famous among friends and colleagues for his habanero chicken mac and cheese.

Jorge is recognized by his supervisor and peers as a spirited, intellectual individual who consistently goes above and beyond to provide exceptional care and comfort to his patients. He lives by the personal motto: “A mission given is a mission complete.”

Jorge’s dedication to his profession and his community has made him an invaluable asset to Umpqua Valley Ambulance. The company is proud to nominate Jorge Garcia as a 2024 Star of Life, honoring his commitment, compassion, and unwavering love for EMS.

Robert Ford

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Robert Ford, like many in the EMS profession, found his way into emergency medical services through his experience with a Volunteer Fire Department. Initially, responding to medical calls wasn’t Robert’s strong suit, so he signed up for an EMT class to build his skills and confidence. It wasn’t long before he discovered the deep sense of accomplishment that EMS brought him, saying, “EMS responses gave me a sense of accomplishment unlike any other. I found that I could make a difference in people’s lives on what might be the worst day of their life.”

In March 2019, Robert joined LifeNet as a full-time EMT, where he quickly became known as a dependable and trusted partner by everyone who shared an ambulance or station with him. His peers have consistently recognized his dedication, with one coworker describing him as displaying “exceptional dedication, quick decision-making, and adept response during critical situations.” Robert also takes pride in mentoring new employees, eagerly sharing tips, tricks, and safety measures to help them succeed in their EMS careers.

Outside of work, Robert and his wife Yvette, who met while competing in rodeos, have been married for 31 years. Together, they have raised two children, Justin (27) and Mckyna (16). In addition to his EMS career, Robert is deeply involved in his community, serving on the Payne County Fair Board and as a superintendent for livestock shows. For more than 21 years, he has worked with 4H and FFA youth, helping them develop skills in animal husbandry and showmanship.

Robert Ford’s commitment to his profession, his coworkers, and his community makes him an exceptional representative for LifeNet as a 2024 Star of Life nominee.

Jason Florance

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Jason Florance, a Paramedic with American Medical Response in Topeka, Kansas, is recognized as a positive role model for students and newly hired first responders. Known for his dedication to both his patients and fellow public servants, Jason consistently goes above and beyond to serve his community.

Last summer, Jason demonstrated this commitment when he helped an elderly patient who had no air conditioning in their home due to a lack of electricity. Not only did Jason help restore power, but he also reached out to local organizations and police department outreach programs to ensure the patient had access to additional resources. His efforts gave the patient a renewed sense of independence and dignity.

This act of kindness is just one example of Jason’s unwavering dedication. He is also known for helping homebound residents with tasks like mowing lawns, fixing gutters, and rearranging furniture—offering support where others may have limited options. Jason’s compassion and commitment make him an invaluable part of the Topeka community and a true role model in EMS.

Brent Fisher

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

William “Brent” Fisher is being recognized for his exceptional dedication to emergency medical care, as demonstrated during a critical response in December 2023. Brent and his flight nurse partner arrived at the scene of a hunting accident where the patient had been shot in the leg with a crossbow arrow. The patient was still in a tree stand, complicating extrication for air-medical transport, and Brent and his team had to wait before beginning life-saving interventions.

The arrow had entered just above the patient’s knee, piercing the femoral artery and causing severe hemorrhaging. Brent administered three units of blood, one plasma unit, and multiple doses of epinephrine, all while coordinating the need for additional blood products. Just before arriving at the hospital, the patient went into cardiac arrest. Brent immediately began chest compressions, stopping only to secure himself for landing, and resumed once they were on the ground.

Thanks to Brent’s extraordinary care during transport, the patient survived and made a full recovery. His quick thinking, skill, and unwavering commitment to patient care were pivotal in saving the patient’s life.

Juvencio Estrada

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Juvencio Estrada is being recognized for his lifesaving actions during a critical incident involving another company’s ground ambulance and an 18-wheeler collision. Juvencio, along with Flight Paramedic Johan Alvarado, was dispatched to the scene of the accident, where they quickly assessed that one of the patients in the ambulance was in urgent need of advanced care. The patient was experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, and had suffered right arm trauma with a tourniquet applied.

Recognizing the severity of the situation, Juvencio and Johan promptly removed the patient from the ambulance and transferred them to their aircraft for immediate transport to advanced medical care. During a fuel stop at Laredo International Airport, they discovered that the patient’s left anterior chest was unstable, among other pressing medical concerns. Acting swiftly, they performed a needle decompression and other complex medical procedures, which immediately improved the patient’s condition.

Their quick decision-making and skilled interventions were described as “lifesaving,” with the patient later expressing that they wouldn’t have survived without the care provided by Juvencio and Johan. Their actions exemplify the highest standards of emergency medical care.

Wayne Gooding

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Throughout his 35-year career at Jackson Community Ambulance, Wayne Gooding has made significant contributions to the field of EMS, particularly through his leadership in developing Jackson Community Ambulance’s Community Paramedic program. Wayne has served as a Community Paramedic since 2016, when the role was first introduced. His extensive and well-rounded service in EMS reflects a deep commitment to both emergency medical services and public health.

In addition to his role as a Community Paramedic, Wayne has served as a Supervisor, Critical Care Paramedic, and Field Training Officer. Wayne also developed JCA’s Bike Response Team for special event support and is a seasoned team leader for our National Response Team. He has been deployed several times, including responding to Hurricane Katrina and the 9/11 World Trade Center attack.

Wayne is a vital part of the JCA team, and his years of service have made impacts far beyond immediate patient care, improving the core health of the community. Thank you for all you do, Wayne! We are proud to have you on our team.

Steve Jaskot

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With over 45 years of dedicated public service, Steve Jaskot has made a lasting impact in the field of emergency medical services. As a full-time Community Paramedic with Jackson Community Ambulance, he plays a vital role in post-acute care, providing crucial patient follow-ups. Steve’s approachable nature and sense of humor allow him to connect effectively with challenging patient populations, fostering trust and improving care outcomes.

Steve holds a paramedic instructor-coordinator license, underscoring his expertise in both training and mentorship. Beyond EMS, he has undergone extensive training in firefighting and reserve police services, proudly serving in these roles for more than four decades. A versatile and skilled professional, Steve is an active member of Jackson Community Ambulance’s Hazmat Team and National Response Team and is currently deployed to regions impacted by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.

In addition to his daily responsibilities, Steve serves as a seasoned leader at large-scale events, including NASCAR races at Michigan International Speedway and the Faster Horses music festival, where his experience and leadership are invaluable. Throughout Steve’s career, he has served as a Station Coordinator, Supervisor, and Hazmat Team member with an Advance Hazmat Life Support certification.

Thank you for all you do, Steve. Your service has made a lasting impact on the patients you serve and on the future of EMS. We are proud to have you on the JCA team!

Kevin Moore

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Kevin Moore has been a dedicated member of the EMS field for 43 years, beginning his career as an EMT and advancing to become a Paramedic. He lives on Plum Island in Newburyport, MA, with his wife, and has spent his career providing compassionate and attentive care to every patient he encounters.

Kevin consistently goes above and beyond for his patients, offering them his full attention from the moment he arrives on scene until he hands them over to hospital staff. He often takes the extra step of checking in on his patients in the emergency room, not just to see how they are doing but also to evaluate how his treatment plan aligns with their current condition. In cases where patients require transfers to another hospital, Kevin frequently volunteers to accompany them, ensuring continuity of care and demonstrating his genuine concern for their outcomes.

Despite his four decades in the field, Kevin remains open to learning. He consistently seeks to improve, learning from each challenging case, as well as from his partners and supervisors. His commitment to growth and adapting to new approaches exemplifies his dedication to his profession.

Throughout his long career, Kevin has made a lasting impact not only on his patients but also on the entire EMS community. Cataldo Ambulance Service is proud to nominate Kevin Moore as a 2024 Star of Life for his unwavering dedication and exemplary service.

William Loftus-Rooney

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William “Bill” Loftus-Rooney, an EMT with 14 years of experience, is being recognized as a 2024 Star of Life for his extraordinary bravery and quick thinking in saving two juveniles from a life-threatening situation. Known for his leadership, calm demeanor, and resolve in difficult circumstances, Bill’s actions on February 23, 2024, exemplify his dedication to patient care and emergency response.

On that day, Bill and his partner were returning to their service area in Holyoke, Massachusetts, after leaving a local emergency room. As they passed Van Horn Pond in Springfield, their ambulance was flagged down by two minors who had ventured onto unstable ice, causing one to fall through. Bill and his partner were the only emergency responders at the scene, with only a few bystanders nearby. After assessing the situation, Bill moved to the edge of the ice to help while his partner found the best access point and called for backup from the Springfield Police, Springfield Fire Department, and tech rescue team.

Bill approached the struggling minor in the water, but the ice gave way beneath him, and he fell in as well. Despite the dangerous situation, Bill managed to lift the minor out of the water and onto the ice. His partner, a bystander, and the Springfield Fire Department worked together using a makeshift rope to pull the minor to shore. Bill then extricated himself from the ice, ensuring both his and the minor’s safety. He immediately provided care for the patient, transporting them to the hospital for hypothermia treatment before returning to duty—changing into a dry uniform and finishing out his 24-hour shift.

Bill was born and raised in Western Massachusetts and is committed to providing exceptional care to the residents of Holyoke and the surrounding communities. In his free time, he enjoys traveling with friends, going to the gym, and cooking. Bill is currently enrolled in Paramedic school, and his colleagues are excited to see him take the next step in his career as an Advanced Life Support provider.

For his bravery and dedication, Bill Loftus-Rooney is a deserving recipient of the 2024 Star of Life Award.

Steve Emery

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For more than four decades, Steve Emery has set the gold standard in Emergency Medical Services, with a career that spans from 1978 to 2024. His journey, which began with his EMT certification through the Lawrence Volunteer Fire Department, has actively shaped the landscape of EMS in Indiana.

Steve retired from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Fire Department in January 2024, marking the culmination of a career defined by professionalism and grace under pressure. During his tenure with Aid Ambulance, Rural Metro, and most recently Seals Ambulance, Steve became a mentor, guide, and a pillar of reliability for those around him. One early incident captures his dedication: despite his wife going into labor, Steve offered to continue his 24-hour shift until a replacement arrived, demonstrating an unshakable commitment to his team while still being present for his family when his child was born.

Since joining Seals Ambulance in 2014, Steve has fostered a culture of camaraderie and support. His approachability and willingness to assist have earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, making him a beloved figure in the EMS community.