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Archives: Stars

Spencer Brittain

Spencer Brittain, an Advanced EMT at Life EMS in Enid, OK, has been recognized by his peers for his exceptional dedication and service, earning him the honor of representing Life EMS at the 2024 Stars of Life event. Spencer began his journey with Life EMS as an EMT Basic in early 2021 and advanced to EMT Advanced in 2023. Now, he is preparing to take the next step in his career by pursuing a Paramedic degree.

Growing up in central Illinois, Spencer earned a degree in Biological Science. His interest in the medical field was sparked early on, spending considerable time in healthcare settings as his sister underwent treatment for severe medical issues. Lucky for us, his experience solidified his desire to contribute to the medical industry, a calling that he has since pursued with passion and dedication.

Since joining Life EMS, Spencer has been a superb employee and team member, consistently demonstrating a commitment to patient care and to his colleagues. His strong work ethic and dedication make him an invaluable asset to Life EMS, and his peers are proud to see him recognized as a 2024 Star of Life honoree.

Cornelius Brady

Neil Brady’s career in emergency medical services spans over 40 years, marked by exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to serving others. Since his launch as one of the earliest Paramedics in the Philadelphia Fire Department’s EMS system, Neil has consistently advanced the profession and improved patient care.

As Patient Experience Manager at VMSC Emergency Medical Services, Neil has made enhancing patient engagement his primary focus. Recognizing that patients are at the heart of EMS, he developed innovative strategies to prioritize patient involvement and satisfaction. Under his guidance, VMSC has implemented programs that improve communication between providers and patients, ensuring care is delivered efficiently and compassionately.

Neil has championed initiatives encouraging patient feedback, allowing VMSC to tailor services to better meet community needs. His advocacy for the effective use of technology keeps patients informed and engaged throughout their care journey, fostering trust and improving health outcomes. By emphasizing transparency and education, he empowers patients and strengthens community relationships.

In addition to his professional achievements, Neil co-founded The Patchwork Foundation, a non-profit supporting families affected by childhood cancer, demonstrating his profound compassion and commitment to those in need. He also serves his community as a Zoning Board member and Chair of the North Penn Health Hospital and Education Authority in Hatfield, PA.

Married to his wife Sandra for 40 years and a father of four, Neil embodies the values of family, community, and service. Guided by principles of kindness, compassion, and trust, he believes in fostering hope and resilience in others.

For his exceptional service, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to enhancing patient engagement in EMS, VMSC Emergency Medical Services proudly nominates Cornelius “Neil” Brady for the American Ambulance Association Star of Life award. Neil’s profound impact on emergency medical services and his dedication to improving patient experiences make him a true champion in the EMS profession and a shining example of excellence.

Antoine Berenger

Antoine Berenger is a true hero. In March 2023, he, together with his crewmates, saved a patient, who, while suffering cardiac arrest, drove erratically towards the firefighters’ engine in the oncoming lane of a rural road just before crashing their vehicle into a soft soil field.

Following orders from his leader, Captain Jason Henry, Antoine quickly assessed the patient before he and his crewmates removed the patient from the vehicle and then placed the individual on the hard, dry ground near the field. Antoine and his crewmate, new paramedic, Brendan McCormack, then began administering CPR and other critical interventions, ultimately saving the patient’s life.

Remarkably, Antoine and his crewmates weren’t originally scheduled to be in the area—they had stepped in to cover a shift. Their swift, coordinated response in a moment of crisis exemplifies their teamwork and commitment to patient care.

Alec Belau

Since joining Maricopa Ambulance as a Paramedic in March 2023, Alec Belau has quickly distinguished himself through his work ethic, positive attitude, and passion for patient care and teaching. His dedication led to his selection for the Maricopa Ambulance Field Training Officer (FTO) Academy. Upon completing the rigorous program, Alec was promoted to Field Training Officer Paramedic in November 2023.

As an FTO Paramedic, Alec has gone above and beyond in his role, earning American Heart Association Instructor certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). These qualifications allow Alec to conduct regular certification refreshers, ensuring that Maricopa Ambulance’s field personnel are well-prepared and up-to-date with life-saving techniques.

Alec’s expertise in emergency medical services is deeply rooted in a personal and professional commitment to excellence, a dedication that was put to the test during a critical incident on February 18, 2024. While on duty in the early morning hours, Alec was dispatched by the Phoenix Fire Department Regional Dispatch Center to respond to a distress call involving an in-flight medical helicopter. The aircraft, transporting a critically ill patient, was experiencing a mechanical malfunction and required immediate assistance. Alec’s quick thinking, adaptability under pressure, and ability to coordinate were instrumental in resolving the situation. He successfully gained access to a remote field, establishing ground communication with the flight crew and coordinating a safe landing zone for not one but two medical helicopters. Once the distressed aircraft landed, Alec continued providing emergency care alongside the flight crew, stabilizing the patient until a secondary helicopter arrived to complete the transport.

Alec’s calm and decisive actions during this high-stakes scenario ensured a positive outcome for the patient and flight crew. His deep understanding of air medical operations and hands-on expertise proved that he was not only in the right place at the right time but also the ideal person to handle such a complex and urgent situation.

Through his hard work, dedication, and ongoing commitment to improving his skills, Alec exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding paramedic. His contribution to Maricopa Ambulance and the surrounding community reflects his unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care in even the most challenging circumstances. Alec’s achievements, quick thinking under pressure, and continuous efforts to enhance his skills make him a standout candidate for recognition in the Stars of Life program.

Jason Baum

Jason Baum, a Paramedic Supervisor at Falck San Diego, has built an impressive career in EMS, earning a reputation as a skilled and reliable professional. With years of frontline experience, Jason has consistently provided exceptional care, using his quick thinking and medical expertise to save countless lives. His commitment to the well-being of his patients and peers has made him a trusted leader within the organization.

Beyond his role as a paramedic, Jason has dedicated significant time to mentoring and training new EMTs and paramedics. As a primary instructor for new hire orientation, he plays a critical role in shaping the future of the workforce. Jason also founded and manages Falck San Diego’s PEER Support team, which offers 24/7 support to frontline staff, ensuring that his colleagues receive the care they need, both professionally and personally.

In his supervisory position, Jason has been instrumental in improving operational efficiency and enhancing patient care through the implementation of new procedures. His strategic leadership and dedication to excellence have been vital to the organization’s success.

Jason is known for his unwavering dedication to the city of San Diego and for his role as a dependable, compassionate team player. His peers consistently describe him as someone who goes above and beyond to support those around him. Jason’s exemplary service, leadership, and commitment to EMS make him a deserving recipient of the 2024 American Ambulance Association Star of Life Award.

John Basile

John Basile, an Emergency Medical Technician, graduated from Indiana University Northwest in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, originally intending to join the fire service in Northwest Indiana. While pursuing his EMT-B certification as a prerequisite, John discovered his true passion lay in the medical field and soon after began his career at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Indiana.

After several years of handling inter-facility transports, John transitioned to emergency medical services, where he has since dedicated himself to serving his community. His efforts extend beyond patient care—he regularly supports local festivals and school sporting events and has been involved in advocacy, meeting with politicians to lobby for critical EMS legislation in Indiana. As a Field Training Officer for the past eight years, John is known for his leadership, mentorship, and positive attitude, earning him the affectionate nickname of the “golden retriever” EMT among his peers.

Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife, Melissa, their two pets, Smoke and Bandit, and his nephew Bentley. He hopes to instill in Bentley a love for community service and compassion for others, values that define John’s own life and career.

Krystal Barboza

It is with great pride that Hall Ambulance Service nominates Krystal Barboza for the prestigious American Ambulance Association’s Star of Life award. Krystal has demonstrated extraordinary dedication and leadership in reviving our community outreach program, which had come to a complete halt due to the severe restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Her passion for connecting with and educating the community about the importance of emergency medical services has been truly inspiring.

In the wake of the pandemic, when our organization was struggling to re-engage with the public, Krystal took the initiative to rekindle our outreach efforts. Recognizing the critical need for EMS education and support in the community, she worked tirelessly to rebuild relationships, design programs, and ensure that our team could once again have a positive and impactful presence in the lives of those we serve. Krystal has built amazing working relationships with California Highway Patrol, Bakersfield Police Department, Kern County Sheriff’s Department, Kern County Probation, Kern County Fire Department, and Bakersfield City Fire Department.

Krystal’s efforts led to the successful organization of health fairs, school visits, career fairs, and public safety demonstrations. Krystal has attended 71 events this year, with 15 additional scheduled through the end of the year. This count does not even include those she has arranged, and others attended in her place. We know there will be more events in the upcoming holiday season and Krystal will participate in each with a smile on her face and her love for EMS is evident to every person she interacts with.  Her unwavering commitment to connect, interact, and educate helped reestablish trust and collaboration between our agency and the local community, allowing us to continue fulfilling our mission of care, compassion, and community.

Krystal’s leadership, creativity, and drive have both revived our community outreach and set new standards for how we engage with the public post-pandemic. She embodies the values of care, compassion, and community, which are at the core of EMS, making her an exemplary candidate for Stars of Life recognition.

Hall Ambulance Service wholeheartedly supports this nomination and believes that Krystal Barboza is more than deserving of this prestigious honor.

Johan Alvarado

Johan Alvarado’s skill, EMS knowledge, and quick thinking are credited for saving the life of a patient in another company’s ground ambulance when that ambulance and an 18-wheeler collided.

Johan, along with Flight Nurse Juvencio Estrada, were dispatched to the scene of the accident, when they realized that one of the patients in the ambulance was experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, and right arm trauma with a tourniquet applied. Both Johan and Juvencio assessed that the patient needed to be immediately transported to advanced care, so they removed the patient from the ambulance and placed them into their aircraft.

During a fuel stop at Laredo International Airport, Johan and Juvencio determined that the patient’s left anterior chest was unstable along with other medical concerns. They deemed a needle decompression was necessary and performed both intricate medical procedures. Immediately, the patient’s condition improved.

Johan and Juvencio’s interventions were lifesaving. Even the patient who survived that ordeal credits their survival to Johan and Juvencio’s care.

Aubree Arneson

Aubree Arneson is being recognized for her clinical expertise, which led to the successful resuscitation of a cardiac arrest patient. Aubree was off duty, working out at the gym when the person on the exercise machine next to her went down. Aubree recognized the signs of cardiac arrest, calmly had someone call 911, retrieved the gym’s AED and initiated CPR with the help of a gym employee. Together they applied the AED and performed CPR until an ambulance arrived, then assisted the crew in treating and transporting the patient. The patient had a return of spontaneous circulation shortly after the ambulance arrived. Aubree’s quick, calm and precise response to this sudden cardiac arrest greatly improved the odds of this positive outcome.

Aubree became an EMT about six years ago, then progressed to the Advanced EMT level two years ago. She plans to continue to advance her career by taking the Intermediate EMT course when it becomes available. She is also known for always helping fellow team members by taking on additional duties and sharing her skills and knowledge.

Frank Alba

As an experienced U.S. Army combat medic specialist with more than ten years of service at Global Medical Response, Frank Alba is a well-respected EMS leader among his peers and community alike.

Frank is passionate about learning and teaching, often sharing his knowledge with coworkers in classes that he voluntarily leads. Always knowledgeable about the latest innovations in the emergency medical industry, Frank’s colleagues describe him as their go-to person when they have questions about patient care. He has mentored countless coworkers who have sought his expertise. Frank has also received multiple nominations for the “Employee of the Year” Award.

During his tenure at Global Medical Response, Frank has participated in multiple deployments totaling 16 weeks of service.

Henry Barsh

Henry Barsh is being honored as a 2024 Star of Life for his quick actions in recognizing symptoms of a stroke, which directly led to saving the life of a mother of three. Henry and his partner arrived on scene of a 911 call where the patient reported pain in her left arm which was the result, she said, of an assault the previous night. Through a quick assessment, Henry recognized the true nature of her pain—left-side weakness nearing paralysis, hallmarks of an active stroke.

Henry immediately placed a C-collar on the patient and called a rapid-trauma alert. He suspected possible spinal damage as the underlying cause of the stroke and began doing everything to support the patient’s shallow breathing and reduce her motion. Upon arrival at the healthcare facility, the patient was immediately brought into the trauma bay, where she was assessed and received imaging that showed multiple cervical fractures with transection of the left vertebral artery. The hospital staff commended Henry on his immediate life-saving actions.

Eric Foell

Eric Foell has built an impressive 13-year career in EMS, distinguished by his compassionate care, dedication to his community, and commitment to his colleagues. As a Critical Care Paramedic at Regional Ambulance Service, Eric has advanced through the ranks, now also serving as the Training Coordinator, where he shares his extensive knowledge and experience with the next generation of EMS providers.

A U.S. Marine veteran, Eric’s dedication to service extends beyond EMS. He is an accomplished ultramarathon runner, having completed a 50-mile race and currently training for a 100-mile ultramarathon. When not serving his community or pursuing his athletic passions, Eric enjoys spending time with his family and their horses.

Eric’s career reflects Regional Ambulance Service’s motto of “Serving People First with Pride, Proficiency, and Professionalism,” making him a deserving recipient of the 2024 Star of Life Award.

James Martin

James Nolan Martin, a Critical Care Paramedic with Pafford Medical Services in Rogers and Tulsa County, Oklahoma, brings an impressive 44 years of experience to his role. With 13 of those years dedicated to Pafford, James’s career is marked by a steadfast commitment to excellence in emergency medical services. His entry into EMS was driven by a deep-seated desire to help others, leveraging his skills to make a significant impact in critical situations.

James’s work ethic is exemplified by his dual roles as an On-Duty Supervisor (ODS) and Field Training Officer (FTO), where he mentors incoming paramedics and ensures operational readiness at all times. His dedication extends beyond his scheduled shifts; he actively engages in community service, employee training, and resource management for his stations.

An American Heart Association Instructor since 1994, James teaches BLS, PALS, and ACLS, contributing to the professional growth of his colleagues. Additionally, as an EVOC instructor, he ensures that EMS professionals are adept at handling emergency vehicles under high-pressure situations.

Recognized for his professionalism and passion for patient care, James’s approach to EMS work is thorough and compassionate, ensuring that every detail, from paperwork to vehicle cleanliness, is meticulously managed. His personal life is filled with the joys of family, music, and continuous learning, drawing strength and support from his spouse and their grandchildren.

James’s unwavering dedication and generous spirit have not only earned him the respect of his peers but have also made him a beloved figure within the community. His nomination for Star of Life is a testament to his profound impact on both Pafford Medical Services and the many lives he has touched throughout his admirable career.

David Trimberger

David Trimberger, a Paramedic Field Training Officer (FTO) with Pafford Medical Services in Yukon, Oklahoma, embodies the true spirit of the American Ambulance Association’s Star of Life. With four years in EMS, nearly three of which have been with Pafford, David has quickly distinguished himself through his dedication to excellence in patient care and education. Drawn to EMS by the challenge and immediacy of life-saving interventions, David thrives in environments that demand quick thinking and decisive action.

His commitment to the profession is driven by the deep personal connections he forms with patients—valuing their stories and insights as much as providing medical care. David believes that taking time to listen carefully to patients often reveals crucial information that can be key to their treatment. His guiding principle, to always engage with patients and colleagues in a manner that fosters learning and mutual respect, highlights his role not just as a caregiver but as an educator.

David’s approach to EMS is characterized by a profound commitment to continuous learning and humility. He advises new paramedics to embrace every opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues and to remain open to the lessons each day brings. His philosophy is that the greatest paramedics are those who use every interaction as a chance to teach and learn, thereby enhancing the capabilities of their team and improving outcomes for patients.

Outside of his professional life, David enjoys the serenity of nature through hiking, hunting, and fishing. He is also passionate about cooking, particularly smoking various meats—a hobby that allows him to unwind and indulge his creative side.

David is grateful for the unwavering support of his wife, Molly, who is not only his partner but his inspiration. He praises her dedication as a nurse and their upcoming journey into parenthood, emphasizing her integral role in his life and career. David Trimberger’s recognition as a Star of Life is a testament to his exceptional service and his profound impact on both his community and the field of EMS.

Dalton Stewart

Dalton Stewart, a seven-year veteran at Pafford Medical Services, exemplifies the spirit of the American Ambulance Association’s 2024 Star of Life. His EMS journey is marked by an appreciation for the profession’s dynamic nature—no day is the same, offering new challenges and opportunities to make a significant impact. Dalton’s dedication shines through in his daily commitment to positive patient outcomes, deeply valuing the ability to bring comfort and care during critical moments.

Recognized for his adaptability and continuous pursuit of knowledge, Dalton advocates for ongoing education within EMS, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. His advice to peers and newcomers—never stop learning and always be ready to adapt—highlights his proactive approach to professional growth and excellence in patient care.

Outside of his lifesaving work, Dalton unwinds by playing guitar, singing, and hunting, sharing these moments with his family. His recognition as a Star of Life is a testament to his profound impact on both his patients and the broader EMS community.

Ronnie Zermeno

Ronnie Zermeno, a seasoned emergency medical services (EMS) professional with two decades of dedicated service, proudly represents Pafford Medical Services as a recipient of the prestigious American Ambulance Association 2024 Star of Life award. He began his EMS career at AMR in Southern California, advancing to a supervisory role before moving to work in the rural settings of Tuolumne County Ambulance. This period enhanced his skills significantly, especially with additional roles in local fire departments.

Seeking proximity to his family and godchildren, Ronnie relocated to Arkansas, where he secured a position at Pafford Medical Services. His initial interest in EMS grew from a law enforcement career, driven by a desire to provide care and comfort to those in crisis.

Now celebrated for his unwavering commitment and humility, Ronnie offers practical advice to those entering EMS and his peers: stay calm, master the basics, prioritize empathy, and embrace continuous learning. Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities, including hunting and fishing, along with video games, which he plays with his family and dogs. Ronnie’s approach to EMS—focusing on mindset, teamwork, and patient care—sets him apart as a leader, exemplifying the traits that distinguish the greats in the field.

John Hathaway

It is with great enthusiasm that Spirit EMS dba Spirit Medical Transport, LLC nominates John R. Hathaway, Jr. for the prestigious Star of Life Award. As an EMT in the service of Spirit EMS since July 17, 2007, John has consistently exemplified exceptional dedication, compassion, and resilience in his role, profoundly impacting both his colleagues and the communities he serves.

Before joining Spirit EMS, John was a dairy farmer, a career that instilled in him a remarkable work ethic and commitment to duty, evident in his transition to emergency medical services. His agricultural roots have deeply influenced his approach to EMS, where he applies the same principles of hard work, punctuality, and reliability. Even following two knee replacements in 2023, John’s service record remains unparalleled, totaling 3,885.83 hours in 2022 and 3,079 hours in 2023—maintaining the highest service hours among his peers.

At 70 years old, John’s unwavering commitment is evident in every emergency response, whether it be a critical care transport on Christmas morning or assisting patients in the quiet hours of early morning. His philosophy, humorously stated as, “The only valid reasons for not showing up are being dead or in jail,” perfectly captures his dedication. This commitment was notably recognized in 2022 when he was awarded a new Toyota Rav4 for his outstanding service and perfect attendance among a group of seven distinguished finalists.

John’s transition from farming to EMS was also driven by a desire to expand and enhance the services provided by his company, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to community service. His daily interactions are imbued with a unique blend of humor and empathy, a tribute to his late brother Keith, whose legacy of joy he strives to continue.

Moreover, John’s compassionate nature extends beyond his professional duties. He provides comfort and encouragement to patients and their families, making a lasting impact on their lives with his ability to blend genuine care with humor, enriching the experiences of those he serves.

In recognition of his exemplary service, relentless dedication, and the profound impact he has made on countless lives, John R. Hathaway, Jr. is an outstanding candidate for the Star of Life Award.

Jessicah Sweet

Jessicah Ruth Sweet, a dedicated EMT from Arkansas, has been recognized with the American Ambulance Association 2024 Star of Life award for her exceptional service. Homeschooled in a small town, Jessicah graduated in 2018 and swiftly pursued her passion for EMS. She completed her EMT training at the University of Arkansas at Monticello in 2021, beginning her EMS career at Pafford Medical Services shortly thereafter. In fall 2023, she joined Monticello Ambulance while continuing to work part-time at Pafford.

Jessicah excels in high-pressure situations, where her skills and calm demeanor have a profound impact on those she serves. From comforting elderly patients to managing critical emergencies, her ability to deliver care with love and compassion embodies the spirit of her Christian faith. Jessicah’s commitment extends beyond her professional life; she is a devoted wife and mother, cherishing her family as her greatest accomplishments. Through her work, Jessicah embodies the principles of service and kindness, making her a deserving recipient of this prestigious accolade.

Aidan Enders

Aidan Enders was born, raised, and still lives in the small rural town of Duanesburg, New York. He attributes to this hometown his success, dedication, and work ethic.

Aidan started his career in public safety at the young age of 10, invited by the local fire chief to clean tables at the pancake breakfast. The more he hung around the firehouse, the more his interest in becoming a first responder was piqued. After joining the fire company at 12 as a junior firefighter, Aidan really knew this was the path for him. In 2019, Aidan was one of the first in New York State to become certified as an EMT at just 17, two months after his birthday.

In November 2019, Aidan began his journey with Mohawk Ambulance Service. Aidan worked through his senior year of high school, which also meant working through the COVID-19 pandemic. When Aidan’s high school dismissed in March 2020, he began working full time hours at MAS to help with the significantly increased workload. After graduation, Aidan continued to work full time and fell in love with the job. The busy shifts with dynamic calls only drove Aidan’s passion for the job. In September 2022, Aidan decided to take the next step in his career and enrolled in Mohawk Valley Health Systems Paramedic Program. Aidan would earn certifications as a Paramedic through both New York State and the National Registry.

From a young age, leadership has been a passion of Aidan’s. In March 2023, Aidan was promoted to Supervisor and just this year, in June 2024, Aidan was promoted to Chief Supervisor. Being a frontline leader during his shifts is Aidan’s favorite thing about working at Mohawk Ambulance Service. Aidan enjoys interacting with the crews, problem solving, and ensuring the operational needs of the agency are met. Aidan’s favorite motto is “lead from the front.”

In Aidan’s free time he enjoys being with his fiancé, Hannah, his lifelong best friends, and his family. Aidan is still an active member of the Delanson Fire Company in the town where his journey in public safety began many years ago. Aidan would like to thank everyone who helped him throughout his career and hopes to repay his mentors by one day mentoring a young provider, as he once was.

Yahya Elshawarbi

Yahya Elshawarbi joined Falck Alameda County three years ago as an EMT and is currently working toward his Paramedic license. In that time, he has not only excelled in his role as an EMT but also dedicated himself to shaping the future of the profession by educating and inspiring the next generation.

Yahya’s journey in emergency medical services is deeply personal.  He once walked the same path as the at-risk youth he now teaches, having graduated from the very same program.  His firsthand experience with the challenges and obstacles faced by these young individuals has fueled his passion for giving back and making a difference. Beyond the classroom, Yahya’s impact extends into the EMS community as an advocate for equity in care for all ethnicities in diverse communities like Alameda County.  He has participated in various research projects and recently presented at the 2024 EMS World conference on this very topic.

Yahya is being honored as a 2024 Star of Life for his work as an educator of underrepresented youth preparing them for life and for the role of emergency medical technician. His dedication, compassion, and leadership have made a profound difference in the lives of many. His receipt of the Star of Life Award is a testament to his outstanding service and his commitment to making a positive impact on the community.