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Archives: Stars

Nicole Gonzales

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

When two devastating events shook her community, Nicole Gonzales responded for responders. As the Ventura County Critical Incident Stress Management Coordinator and a member of the county’s Behavioral Health Task Force, Nicole is charged with ensuring first responders receive the mental health support they need after traumatic events. 

Nicole provided support and comfort to her fellow AMR employees, first responders, and hospital personnel in the immediate aftermath of the November 2018 shooting at a country music bar in Thousand Oaks, California. Wildfires ignited just days later, impacting the same personnel who had responded to the deadly shooting. Nicole worked with members of the Critical Incident Stress Management coalition to create plans to satisfy the mental health needs of the community, in addition to those serving the public interest.

Day in and day out, Nicole demonstrates compassion and professionalism in helping her teammates cope with large-scale public incidents and their own private tragedies. She also continues to work as a full-time EMT and is a Field Training Officer and Lead Emergency Vehicle Operations Instructor for AMR Ventura and Gold Coast Ambulance.

 

Kenneth Denk

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

After working as an electrician and serving as an expeditionary warfare and submarine specialist in the U.S. Navy, Kenny Denk found his calling in the EMS field. He joined AMR in April 2012 after earning his Paramedic certification. Kenny is a skilled clinician who takes great pride in his work. His supervisors often receive compliments about the dignity and respect he shows to patients and colleagues.

Kenny has a heart for community service. He leads his operation’s annual CPR challenge and has organized efforts to honor veterans in his local community. When a need arises, Kenny is not shy about sliding back into electrician mode to help with remodeling and other tasks around the station. Kenny also serves as an assistant Scoutmaster for a Boy Scout troop and a medical representative for an American Heritage Girls troop. Additionally, he has helped lead marriage retreats and is a Eucharistic Minister at his church.

Kenny is most proud of his ability to treat critical care patients. He is currently working to obtain his critical care certification.

 

Michael Copeland

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Mike Copeland has been an invaluable member of the Ventura County EMS community for the past 25 years. Throughout his career, he has served as an EMT, a Paramedic, and a Field Training Officer. He has developed a reputation as someone who leads by example.

Mike was one of the first to respond to the deadly shooting at a country music bar in Thousand Oaks, California in November 2018. He sprang into action mode when he received a patient with multiple gunshot wounds. Mike did not realize at the time that his patient was a long-time friend and fellow first responder. Mike transported the man to the hospital, then returned to assist other patients.

Just days after the shooting, disastrous wildfires broke out in Ventura County. No one would have questioned Mike had he asked for time off to cope after the shooting, but being the dedicated and selfless individual he is, Mike volunteered to fill available shifts during this difficult time.

We honor Mike for his tireless commitment to his patients, his fellow caregivers, and the community he has lived in and served for decades.

 

Jackson Coats

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Spending 29 years in mobile healthcare is itself an achievement worthy of an award. Yet with almost three decades under his belt, Jackson Coats is even more dedicated to his profession, his teammates, and his patients than he was on the day he first started. Every year, Jackson seeks out new knowledge and certifications. He has instructed countless students during his tenure. He has saved lives with his own two hands with the experience and clinical skills he has so generously passed on to the providers who have come after him. Jackson’s excellent bedside manner inspires those within his operation as well as colleagues from allied agencies.

Jackson is a founding member of AMR’s Special Operations Unit of Contra Costa County. The unit provides Paramedic support to the county’s SWAT teams during active shooter events and specialized technical assignments. He is also a longtime member of AMR’s Emergency Response Team and has been deployed to multiple national disasters. Jackson served as a strike team leader during the Hurricane Michael deployment in 2018.

 

Kristen Casteel

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Last year kept Kristen Casteel on her toes. In 2018, Kristen—who has worked in mobile healthcare for 13 years and as a Paramedic for the past six—delivered three babies in the field and successfully resuscitated four cardiac arrest patients.  

Although Kristen provides the same strong clinical care to each of her patients, one incident has cemented her stellar reputation. While Kristen’s partner was treating a patient in the back of the ambulance, a panicked bystander approached the ambulance and informed Kristen, who was operating the vehicle, that there was someone unresponsive on the sidewalk nearby. Kristen pulled the ambulance over, grabbed her equipment, and found a patient in cardiac arrest.

Kristen began resuscitation efforts and directed bystanders to assist with CPR. She managed the patient on her own for five full minutes. When the transporting ambulance arrived on scene eight minutes into the incident, the patient’s heart was once again beating on its own.

 

Rebecca Hartman

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Rebecca Hartman has grown up in the emergency medical services industry. She has been part of the team at Abbott for the past decade, but first became involved in EMS when she was 16 years old. As Lead Field Training Officer, Becca oversees trainers, conducts case reviews, and helps mentor team members – all while continuing to work in the field.

After several of her team members were exposed to opiates while responding to calls, Becca took it upon herself to ensure everyone was educated and prepared for this potential exposure. She first initiated a training class for employees, and then contacted several local fire and police departments to begin teaching a class on opiate exposures. She wanted to make sure that as many first responders as possible were aware of the dangers of opiates and of how they can decrease the exposure for first responders.

Another example of Becca’s commitment to her community is demonstrated every Friday when she visits a local elementary school to offer high fives and a boost of encouragement to students starting their day. Several other EMTs and Paramedics have also been convinced by Becca to participate in this simple activity which produces extraordinary reactions from the children. Becca’s positive outlook is inspiring. She has earned the trust, respect and admiration of her colleagues, patients, and community.

 

Elizabeth Yancey

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Beth Yancey has a unique ability to see the silver lining behind every dark cloud. Beth spent three years as a Mesa Fire Department Connector program volunteer, but a heart condition kept her from entering the fire service on a full-time basis. Beth poured her passion into EMS instead. Just a few years into her career, a serious car wreck sidelined Beth. She worked in an EMS Human Resources position for four years before gaining enough strength to return to the ambulance.

“How can we make a patient’s worst day better?” was a question that Beth, a former EMT instructor, repeatedly posed to her students and continues to ask herself every day. It was from this foundation of care that Beth developed a special friendship with a young leukemia patient. Beth and her partner were at a hospital last year when they noticed the patient pointing at their ambulance. Beth invited the five year old and her mother in for a closer look, and soon Zaelynn—who had previously had trouble walking—was making trips from her room every time Beth was at the hospital. Now in remission, Zaelynn was quick to offer support when Beth’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, which she has since beat.

 

Russell Friske

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Service has been the common thread running through Rusty Friske’s professional life. Rusty joined the EMSA team in August 2014, shortly after receiving his EMT certification. He had intended to join the fire service, but fell in love with medicine. Rusty earned his Paramedic certification in August 2016 and has since become a part-time Clinical Coordinator. He is responsible for leading the EMSA Field Training Officer program, and has taken responsibility for helping EMTs successfully transition to Paramedic roles. Rusty has received numerous kudos for excellent patient care and customer service during his time at EMSA.

Before entering the EMS field, Rusty worked as a youth pastor and then as a YMCA Director. Doing for others – patients, colleagues, parishioners, campers, and strangers – fulfills Rusty, and he and his wife encourage their young daughters to possess servants’s hearts as well. The family has adopted the values of faith, respect, integrity, sacrifice, kindness, and excellence (an acronym of “Friske”) and discuss how to align their lives with these values daily.

 

Rachel Evans

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Emergency Medical Services is in Rachel Evans’s blood. Rachel joined EMSA fresh out of EMT school in March 2015 and ended up working alongside many of the same people her Paramedic father had decades earlier. Rachel earned her Paramedic certification, with valedictorian honors, in July 2017. Since then, she has made teaching others her mission. That includes Rachel’s partners, her patients, and the most recent group of EMSA EMTs to complete Paramedic school; they recognized Rachel for the hours she spent helping them to succeed. Rachel credits her grandmother, a long-time teacher, with helping her understand the importance of sharing what she has learned with others.

Last year, Rachel received a special administrative award for her professionalism and leadership. She has been recognized many times for providing excellent clinical care and demonstrating strong teamwork, and her patient care documentation is superb. An avid runner, Rachel has competed in half and full marathons, including the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. However, Rachel claims that she is most proud of the fact that her colleagues say that they would trust her to provide emergency care to their family members. 

 

Aaron Fajardo

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Facing down fire is nothing new for Aaron Fajardo, a Firefighter/EMT with more than a decade of experience. But facing down gunfire is, quite fortunately, a rarer occasion.

Last July, Aaron was part of a three-man engine crew dispatched to a collision involving two vehicles. Within minutes of the engine’s arrival on scene, one of the motorists involved in the crash began firing a gun in the direction of Firefighters, EMTs, and other emergency responders. Aaron instinctively shielded the patient he was caring for with his own body. He secured cover for himself and removed the patient from the direct line of fire. More than two dozen law enforcement officers arrived on the scene and apprehended the gunman.

Aaron’s compassion toward others and his enthusiasm for the job are palpable. He is motivated to learn, grow, and earn more responsibility. Though Aaron only joined the Rural Metro Fire Department four years ago, he has not hesitated to take the steps needed to advance his career and secure a bright future.

 

Craig Boydell

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

A dedicated firefighter/EMT, Craig Boydell is an indispensable member of Pima County Fire Operation’s Critical Incident Stress Management team. Craig willingly responds at a moment’s notice to help his peers, along with providers from neighboring fire protection and EMS agencies, after significant, traumatic events. He has provided much-needed support at numerous local, state, and regional incidents, including the October 2017 mass shooting in Las Vegas.

Craig has a strong focus on both physical fitness and mental fitness. He is a certified fitness instructor and fire academy physical training instructor. Craig is also an active member of his department’s Health & Wellness and Safety Committees.

Craig is a natural leader and is dedicated to helping the next generation succeed, including the high school students to whom he provides introductory training on careers in the fire service. Craig has served Pima County for the past 16 years.

 

Sheila Jackson

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Sheila Jackson has worked for Metro West Ambulance for over 20 years. Calm, professional, and caring, Sheila continuously demonstrates high level compassionate clinical care, whether it is a routine patient transport or a more emotionally challenging event.

Mentoring new Paramedics and EMTs is Sheila’s passion. Sheila’s 20 plus years of dedication to EMS is seen throughout community, as she spends a lot of her off time volunteering with animal shelters and with a local fire agency. While volunteering, she trains, coaches, and mentors new Medics, and is always ready to share her years of wisdom with others, from new EMTs to seasoned Paramedics. 

When not on duty, Sheila enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Sheila’s dedication to Metro West Ambulance and the EMS community is demonstrated through her hard work and perseverance. She is loyal, honest, and committed to the growth of the EMS profession. She rarely misses a day of work, fills in when necessary for fellow medics, and continuously volunteers her time to make a difference. Metro West Ambulance is proud to honor Sheila as a 2019 Star of Life.

 

Cassandra Sperlein

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

After 14 years in Special Education working with medically fragile individuals, Cassandra Sperlein made the leap to EMS. She began her career as an Emergency Medical Technician in Los Angeles, where she worked for two years on an interfacility transport unit doing Basic Life Support and Critical Care Transports. She then worked as an Emergency Medical Technician for a special events company, where she also held the positions of Field Training Officer and Supervisor.

In January 2017, Cassandra began her career at Metro West Ambulance as an EMT in the Wheelchair Department. She was able to obtain her Ambulance Certification and started working on an ambulance shortly after starting with the company. Cassandra recently moved to the Standby Division and is currently attending Paramedic school. After a few years of experience in the field, Cassandra hopes to become a Field Training Officer in order to help and teach new EMTs and Paramedics.

Cassandra greatly enjoys reading and taking adventures with her wife and 5 year old son.

 

Howard Halcomb

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Howard “Punky” Halcomb has been volunteering in emergency services for 47 years. He began his career as a Firefighter at the Pond Creek Fire Department in 1972. He served as Assistant Fire Chief for several years before serving as Chief from 1998 to 2006. He continues to have a major impact in the community as a Firefighter, Emergency Medical Responder, and Emergency Manager.

Punky’s leadership was crucial in establishing emergency medical services in Pond Creek and the surrounding areas. In 1974, Punky became one of the first registered EMTs in his area, and in 1975, at the request of the local funeral home, Punky and three other members of the fire department assumed the responsibility of providing transportation and care to the sick and injured using the funeral home hearse. By the late 1970s, Pond Creek Fire Department was able to purchase its first ambulance to provide emergency care. As the department grew, he continued to play a vital role in serving the community and still has a major impact today.

When not on fire or medical calls, Punky spends much of his free time at the station working on equipment or making much needed improvements. He still carries more responsibilities than most, including communications, storm spotting, tornado siren testing, and hydrant testing. He also volunteers his time at the school teaching the fire safety program.

Punky shares his passion for emergency medical services with his wife, Sara. She has served as a Firefighter and EMT for 24 years, and together they have helped countless people in their time of need, often working together on the same truck. Punky also handed his love for serving down to his son, Brandon. Brandon has made a career in emergency services as a full time Firefighter and Advanced EMT in Oklahoma. Punky has two other children, Mindy and Nicholas, both of whom have successful careers in other fields.

Pond Creek Fire and EMS is honored to recognize Punky Halcomb as a 2019 Star of Life Award nominee.

Lee Huber

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Lee Huber has more than 15 years of experience in public safety, including fire, law enforcement, and emergency medical services. Lee began his career working at a small rural ambulance service as an EMT-Intermediate and eventually became the department’s Director. He came to Lakes Region EMS as one of the Operations Managers, with the primary responsibility of leading a new management contract for a rural hospital-based ambulance service. Since taking on this role, Lee has led the service in an engaging and meaningful way, bringing employee engagement to an all-time high. He is dedicated to standing out as not only a manager for the contracted area, but also a leader who goes above and beyond when it comes to the success of Lakes Region EMS. 

Lee has been in his role at Lakes Region EMS for the past six years. During this time, he has been an overall sounding board for problem solving in areas throughout the operation. He also has utilized his previous leadership experience and his clinical knowledge to help facilitate multiple partnerships, such as with state representatives, and community programs, including EMR Medical Direction for multiple agencies and CPR class coordination with local programs. Lee’s dedication to Lakes Region EMS is steadfast and unyielding.

John Joswiak

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John Joswiak has 13 years of experience in emergency medical services, and has spent the last eight years with Lakes Region EMS. John started his career as an EMT-Basic, quickly moving to the position of Paramedic, for one of Minnesota’s leading ground Critical Care transport services. He is currently licensed and working in Minnesota and Wisconsin operations as a Critical Care Paramedic. John is well recognized as someone who will spend additional time on special projects, mentor new staff, and always go the extra mile for his patients and partners. He has also led our employee Adopt-a-Highway program over the past several years. Lakes Region EMS is proud to nominate John as a 2019 Star of Life.

Paul Kock

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Paul Kock represents what is best in an EMS professional and Sioux Falls EMS is proud to nominate him as a Star of Life for his outstanding dedication and long-standing commitment to volunteer EMS. Paul has twenty-three years of service to the City of Sioux Falls, and nearly three decades of volunteering his time to EMS. He is a knowledgeable and kind provider, and always strives to best help each of his patients. Though he is not a member of supervision, Paul is a leader in the organization, and a mentor to many in the region. Sioux Falls EMS is incredibly appreciative of his service, experience, and professionalism.

Steven LaDue

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Steve LaDue has skillfully provided mobile healthcare in his community for many years. He was previously a provider at Rural/Metro and Greece Ambulance, then joined Henrietta Ambulance (CHS Mobile Integrated Healthcare) in March of 2006. He has served in many capacities at Henrietta Ambulance, always as a first class provider.

Steve has a passion for being a Paramedic and for educating EMS personnel. His extensive experience gives him the ability to recognize when patients are truly sick and treat them accordingly. For example, when Steve and his partner were sent to a priority 4 illness call, and upon arrival, Steve immediately recognized the patient was having a STEMI even though the patient’s symptoms were vague. Steve initiated appropriate care and provided rapid transport to a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) center with a scene time of 8 minutes. This recognition of the critical illness certainly made a difference in the patient’s life.

Steve was one of the first Rapid Sequence Induction (RSI) Technicians in the region, and the first to perform an RSI without the assistance of a second Paramedic. He is confident and able to perform complex skills independently in order to best treat his patients. He has always challenged processes to ensure any changes were being implemented for the right reasons, though he remains flexible enough to modify his practice based on new evidence.

Steve comes from an EMS family, as his wife is also a Paramedic at an agency within the region. Steve is a skilled scuba diver, and at one point in his career he dove professionally, inspecting bridge pylons in lakes and rivers. Today, Steve enjoys scuba diving for recreation when he is not camping with his family or making beer in his basement.

Adam Nato

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Adam Nato began his career in EMS volunteering with Castleton Fire/Ambulance, where he acquired his EMT card in 2009. He was hired at Mohawk Ambulance Service in December of 2016 as a Dispatcher for the Communications Department. After a few months, he began working regularly in the ambulance as an EMT. Adam received a Distinguished Service Award in December of 2017 for his hard work. His continuous dedication and professionalism quickly landed him a position as Supervisor, and soon after, Chief Supervisor, where he assists with ePCRs for the company.

Adam is equally as active outside of work as he is on the clock. He enjoys competing in marathons, attending and participating in sporting events, skiing, and hunting. He also takes frequent getaways with his girlfriend and two dogs. He still volunteers in his free time, but now with Defreestville Fire Department which is close to his home.

We are very proud to have an employee such as Adam Nato on our team, and look forward to his continued  growth with Mohawk Ambulance Service.

Jeffery Behling

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Jeff Behling proved early last year that knowledge and know-how never take a day off. Jeff was at a junkyard looking for auto parts when an exhaust manifold fell onto another man. Jeff was off-duty but jumped into action. Based on the man’s color, Jeff knew the situation was serious. Jeff determined the man had a potentially life-threatening arterial bleed and directed bystanders to call 911. Jeff held direct pressure on the wound and kept the man alert until first responders arrived.

Jeff is a member of the AMR Emergency Response Team and he has been deployed four times during his four-year career with AMR, most recently to South Carolina after Hurricane Florence. Jeff was a strike team leader during that activation and was on the ground for nearly two weeks. Jeff also recently became an Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC) instructor and assists with various aspects of his operation’s new employee orientation program.

Jeff was inspired to enter the EMS field by his parents (Jason and Chaña) and his grandfathers, Reed Don Conover and the late Bruce Andrew Behling, both of whom were volunteer EMTs in Utah in the early days of EMS. To say that he’s done them all proud would be an understatement. American Medical Response is proud to recognize Jeff Behling as a 2019 Star of Life.