Skip to main content

Archives: Stars

Devin Holland

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Devin Holland, NREMT-P, serves as the Operations Manager for Pafford Medical Services’ Saline County, Arkansas operation. This is a seven-ambulance operation with a staff of more than seventy EMS professionals. As such, Holland oversees the day-to-day 911 operations and any special operations or event medical assignments.

He began his EMS career fourteen years ago as an EMT, achieved his Paramedic license in 2013, and has been working through the ranks from Paramedic to Operations Manager at Pafford over the past four years. Since his time with Pafford as Operations Manager, Devin has constantly put his team and his community first. His forward-thinking, optimistic attitude and his compassion for the job he does and the citizens he cares for is second to none. Devin has been instrumental and successful in inspiring those he leads to assemble and deploy sometimes at a moment’s notice to people in need.

Pafford’s top leadership, as well as the Arkansas Director of Operations, believe Devin has earned the American Ambulance Association Star of Life distinction because of his positive influence and his natural leadership qualities.

Devin says, “I honestly could not believe I had won the Star of Life award for Pafford. It is wonderful to know that we make such a positive impact for the patients we care for and the communities we serve. I feel so much appreciation knowing the things I have done with Pafford have not gone unnoticed.”

Devin is a dedicated family man who enjoys spending time attending sporting events or his kids’ school events. He lives with his wife, Elizabeth, and their two children, Liam and Madi.

 

Juliana Castro

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

In four short years of employment at UT Health East Texas EMS, Juliana has consistently shown exceptional patient care and bedside manner. She came to our company with previous EMS experience and immediately found her place at home.

Juliana is currently training with our CISM team, after immediately expressing her interest in the team when it was created. Before our CISM team, Juliana would personally reach out to employees that she knew had a rough call and check on them. Since being a part of our team, she continues to reach out to crews and management when she knows of anyone that may need the services. Juliana has also taken over the EMS Bike Team. Since taking on the responsibility, she has shown that she is very thorough and pays attention to detail. She has taken over this team with pride and is running it very well.

Juliana’s patient care inspires everyone around her to be better. She genuinely cares for every single one of her patients as if they were her own family, and consistently goes above and beyond for all. An example of this is when a patient once called EMS because she ran out of her medications and was unable to go the pharmacy to get them. The patient had no complaints; she just wanted to be able to take her morning medications and was out of options. Juliana called her Operational Supervisor to pick up the medications in order to keep the patient at home and out of the ER. The patient was so grateful to Juliana for her care, and mentioned that she had never come across a medical professional who treated her with so much respect and compassion.

You will hardly ever find Juliana’s truck without a student on it. This is because of the reputation she has made over the years with her students. The students and instructors at nearby colleges know her by name and recommend her for ride-outs because she takes time with every student to go over everything, from where supplies are located on the truck to protocols and operations. She cares about her community and puts as much effort into training new EMTs and medics as she puts into her patient care.

You may sometimes hear the crews speaking about a “treat fairy.” Few of us know who it is and many still wonder. Juliana keeps a box of snacks, fidget toys, stickers, cards, and inspirational quotes to leave in trucks randomly. When she notices a crew that has been busy or is just not having a good day she will leave treats for the crews to find in their trucks. This has helped spread positivity and unity amongst the crews. She enjoys spreading cheer and wants zero recognition.

Overall, there is not a more deserving person than Juliana “Jewls” Castro for the Star of Life Award. She puts 100% into every patient, every shift, every student, and every crew member.

 

Delaney Kenny

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Delaney Kenny has been an EMT with Armstrong Ambulance since 2019. Delaney states that she has always had a desire to work in the medical field and help other people. Her passion was sparked while in high school, when Delaney went on her first overseas trip to Panama, where she did outreach work, specifically with orphaned children. That trip to Panama really confirmed Delaney’s desired career path. She started in EMS, in hopes of learning basic assessment tools and how to interact with patients. She credits her time at Armstrong with improving her patient care skills and so much more.

Since she has been at Armstrong, Delaney has been recognized many times for her caring and empathy by colleagues, supervisors, and patients. We often receive heartfelt thank you notes praising Delaney for being kind, caring, and courteous while also providing excellent patient care. Patients have said that her kindness while they were in pain has “made their day.” Delaney sets the bar high when it comes to patient care and leads by example for every new hire she trains. She cares for every patient with the thoughtfulness and attention that we would want for our own family members.

During the height of the pandemic, instead of shying away from the fear and uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, Delaney stepped up to help Armstrong run several municipal testing locations in addition to her regular BLS shift work. Delaney also played a big role in the emergency vaccination projects and was a huge contributor in Armstrong’s efforts to vaccinate the entire Massachusetts State Police force. During that time, her leadership skills became evident, and she was chosen to become a Field Training Officer to guide new EMTs during their field orientation.

In addition to her work at Armstrong, Delaney has continued her overseas volunteer work, most recently in July 2021. Delaney was the clinical lead for a team of fifteen student volunteers from the organization Royal Servants, who were engaged in outreach efforts at primary schools and orphanages in Nairobi, Kenya. Delaney was tasked with managing strict COVID regulations for the team, amongst other activities, and ensuring that everyone was compliant with protocols. The group enjoyed a successful month-long mission and upon return to the states, Delaney jumped right back into her EMT duties at Armstrong.

When not in the field, Delaney enjoys finding new coffee shops, reading, and spending time with her friends and her two dogs. She is currently attending Paramedic school and looks forward to applying what she is learning in the classroom to her work in the field. One of her favorite things about her career in EMS is showing up to a scene and getting to make a new connection with another human being in such a short period, with the hopes of helping them.

Armstrong Ambulance is proud to call Delaney Kenny a 2022 Star of Life!

 

Douglas Sanders

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Douglas “D.J.” Sanders was named a 2022 Star of Life for LifeNet, Inc. in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Born and raised in Hot Springs, D.J. graduated from Lakeside High School in 2002.

“I was a senior in high school on September 11, 2001. I was inspired seeing people helping people during that time,” he said.

At the age of seventeen, a cadet program at the Garland County Sheriff’s Office kicked off his career path to becoming a First Responder.

“Through the program, I spent time observing in the juvenile jail, the adult jail, and the radio room. I also got to do ride-alongs with a deputy. When I got into the radio room, I fell in love with it. There was technology, and the 911 system was exciting to operate,” D.J. recalled. “A dispatcher is the first First Responder ‘on scene.’ I did one ride-along with a deputy and the rest of the time was in the radio room.”

In 2002, D.J. accepted a paid dispatch position working in Hot Spring County, Arkansas. Three years later, he accepted a position dispatching for the Hot Springs Police Department. In 2009, he started dispatching part-time for the Garland County Sheriff’s Office, and, in 2012, he took a part-time position as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher with LifeNet, Inc.

“I was working as a law enforcement dispatcher and was looking for ways to advance my career. I had decided against being a police officer, so I looked for an alternative form of emergency services. I had become phone friends with the dispatchers at LifeNet. When there was a part-time dispatch position, I took it. EMS became my new career. Being able to provide medical assistance to someone in need is an amazing feeling,” he explained.

One of the requirements for working in dispatch at LifeNet was going to EMT school.

“I had spent twelve years working behind a desk. After I obtained my EMT and started working part-time on the ambulances, I realized my desk now had a windshield. That was a good feeling. I felt like I had freedom,” he said. “Yes, you have to run calls, but you’re driving around and moving and getting to meet new people. No day is the same. The look of relief on someone’s face when they see that help has arrived is priceless to me. That’s what keeps me doing this job.”

A drive to grow within the EMS industry inspired D.J. to go to Paramedic school.

“I had thought about going into a management role in the future, so I went to Paramedic school to enhance my knowledge base and be able to move up the ladder in management,” he said.

In 2020, D.J. was promoted to an Operations Manager (OM) role at LifeNet.

“This is going to sound so cliché. I love my job. My job is my life. I put the ‘life’ in LifeNet,” he said. “I enjoy being able to serve others. I do not really have hobbies because my job is my hobby. My coworkers are my friends. If I can be here supporting our crews, I want to be here.”

D.J. was nominated by his peers to be a 2022 Star of Life for his devotion to his job and his colleagues. He goes above and beyond to help both his coworkers and his patients, and is the epitome of what a LifeNet Paramedic and Supervisor should be. After losing a LifeNet colleague last year, D.J. immediately began taking care of others. He made the calls that needed to be made, ensured that everyone had the resources they needed, and shouldered all the responsibilities of the difficult situation. To D.J., his colleagues are family, and family takes care of each other.

When you can get D.J. to take time off, he enjoys spending time with his family and his dogs. He is always up for a good road trip and seeing new places as well.

Paul Seamann

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Paul Seamann’s EMS career began on a chilly October weekend in 1981, when West Virginia implemented the crazy idea of closing down its recently constructed 876-foot-high single arch bridge and allowing BASE Jump parachutists from around the world to legally plunge into the near vertical gorge resplendent with its hardwood trees at the height of their fall colors, only to land on the rocky shores of a Class 5 mountain river.

While traveling cross country with his newly minted EMT card, Paul came upon the wild celebration and assisted the local Jan-Care Ambulance rescuers, treating the injured jumpers whose three crash landing options appeared to be rock, tree, or river. Forty years later, Paul Seamann is still present at every WV Bridge Day, and is still leading the Jan-Care medical operations on the shores of the mighty New River.

Over the past four decades, Paul has added a few additional accomplishments to his résumé. He has become a Paramedic and has worked 137 cardiac and traumatic arrests, and has provided advanced care as a CCT Medic. Paul also has his RN degree, and has worked in the ED And ICU while simultaneously instructing over 150 National Registry EMT and Paramedic students across the mountains of southern WV. He is also a frequent presenter at state and national conferences.

With a master’s in healthcare administration and a busy career as Director of Operations of the state’s largest EMS agency – overseeing 120,000 responses across twelve rural counties – Paul’s continuing love for the raw and interpersonal aspects of the EMS profession has kept him deeply involved in helping guide EMS forward. He has continuously held leadership positions in local EMS and hospital councils, the state EMS Advisory Council, and the statewide Medical Review Committee. Paul also is President of the WV EMS Coalition and the WV EMS Administrators, as well as an active member of the Legislative Task Force and of numerous protocol, active threat, pediatric, and other specialty committees. He is an NAEMT state advocate, and is an active participant in many AAA programs.

Paul Seamann, who has driven across all fifty states and has traveled to twenty-five countries, is fond of inspiring new recruits to EMS with a simple statement: “If you want to BE SOMEBODY, to make a real difference in a person’s life, then EMS is your home and we welcome you aboard.”

Paul has been instrumental in the progress of EMS since the 1990s. He is a staple at Jan-Care Ambulance, and has played a major role in the overall success of Jan-Care Ambulance.

Nate Segar

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Nate began his career at Tri-State Ambulance in 2005. His amazing knowledge and ability to teach led Nate to become an FTO and Preceptor for new employees and students. His leadership skills, as well as his kind, compassionate, and personable attitude, made him a perfect fit for the company’s Shift Resource Officer/Corporal role.

Nate has displayed a level of professionalism, analytical thought, and reliability that is rare not only in the EMS field but in any profession. In his time as a Corporal, he has shown remarkable leadership skills. Nate does not seek out confrontation, but he is never intimidated by difficult conversations that need to happen with his coworkers. The quality bonds that he has built with his colleagues has led to him being affectionately known as “the grandpa” of his shift.

In a Star of Life nomination letter submitted to Tri-State Ambulance on Nate’s behalf, a coworker described Nate’s determination to take time for mental health and to appreciate the moment:

“Nate was a partner of mine on one of my first shifts 14+ years ago. During a particularly stressful day, we were assigned to a posting location. On the way to that location, we stopped near a park bench along the Mississippi River. He insisted that we get out of the truck, and we sat on the bench for five minutes. I don’t remember any words that were said, but the message was clear. Self-care is a skill that can’t be overlooked. Never forgot to appreciate your surroundings and where you are in your life’s journey.”

Nate’s interpersonal strengths are complimented by his work ethic. If there is ever down time during his shift, Nate can often be found fixing medical equipment and performing general station maintenance, often before an issue is even reported.

Alvin Short

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Alvin Short began his EMS career in 1998, and has worked as a Paramedic for Pafford Medical Services’ Hinton/El Reno, OK service area for the past three years. He also serves as a Field Training Officer and Chaplain for his Pafford base.

Alvin is a compassionate and caring individual who, whether on-duty or off-duty, is constantly checking in on team members in his area. It is not uncommon for coworkers to receive a text message or a phone call from Alvin, letting them know that he is thinking of them and that he is always available to lend a listening ear to those in need. Alvin will always go the extra mile in his duties, including working extra shifts when he feels a colleague may need a friend or someone to talk to. He takes great pride in helping to ensure the mental and spiritual health of his coworkers.

Of his nomination as a Star of Life, Alvin says, “To learn that I received the award because of reaching out to our brothers and sisters to make sure their mental health is taken care of is the biggest honor I can think of.” He went on to say, “If we don’t take care of our mental health, then we, as well as our families and patients, suffer.”

When not on-duty, Alvin enjoys spending time with his daughters, Peyton and Lyndsi; his sons, Tyler and Donnie; and fiancée, Christi. Alvin also has a grandson, Hector – also known as “Chunky.” Alvin is very proud of his family and loves being called “Papa.” He enjoys attending church, going to sporting events with his family, and fishing.

 

Allison Stout

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Allison Stout has been an incredible asset to Lakes Region EMS over the course of her ten-year career. Starting as an EMT, Allison advanced to become a Critical Care Paramedic, FTO, and, most recently, a QA Coordinator.

Allison has gone above and beyond, investing an incredible amount of time training and onboarding each employee. She has not only taught classes, but also has progressed our clinical education offerings by reviewing, adapting, and developing new courses. Allision’s contributions to further develop the organization’s clinical excellence are remarkable. She sets the tone and expectations for each new hire, embracing the clinical culture at Lakes Region EMS. She shows great ownership in the organization with each employee she has the opportunity to interact with.

Allison is also an accomplished artist. Prior to starting her career in EMS, she worked as a studio and commission artist. Making art and being creative is still a source of enjoyment, but has become more of a leisure activity in recent years. When Allison is not working, she enjoys spending time with her partner, Jon, and his son, Zander, as well as the rambunctious quadrupeds that live with them.

 

Mirinda Richardson

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Mirinda Richardson has worked in the ambulance service industry for sixteen years and began her career at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Michigan, Inc. in March 2007, first in the role of Receptionist and soon after, Scheduling Coordinator.

In 2018, Mirinda was promoted to Scheduling & Licensing Manager. In this vital role, Mirinda has demonstrated herself to be highly capable of ensuring that the EMS schedule is filled with the appropriate staff, which is crucial to keeping ambulance resources deployed. Mirinda also works in concert with the Superior Education Department to schedule newly trained EMT students for clinical shifts before they enter into full-time positions at Superior. Further, Mirinda is responsible for monitoring licensing credentials for all EMS personnel, along with handling vehicle and agency licensing with the State of Michigan. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Mirinda has tirelessly assured the staffing of EMS personnel during this unprecedented and challenging time.

Mirinda continuously proves herself to be an instrumental leader at Superior, especially at a time when staffing shortages in the industry have presented serious challenges for ambulance services. Her position requires dedicated and constant attention. She always stands up to the enormous task of managing the deployment schedules of 300+ EMS employees, in addition to clinical shifts for 30-50 EMS students throughout the year, and new-hire orientation “third-ride” shifts, along with managing the staffing coverage for large special events, such as the Detroit Lions games. Mirinda also joins operations on-site at Ford Field where she functions as Stadium Supervisor and Dispatcher for Superior personnel at events.

Mirinda is well known for her friendly, composed demeanor, and her positivity and exceedingly strong work ethic serve as an example for everyone with whom she interacts. Mirinda is a mild-mannered, thoughtful professional whose strength lies in her dependable, strong character. She was a key contributor to Superior of Michigan achieving CAAS accreditation in November 2017 and she is easily recognized as a highly valued member of the Superior team.

In her personal time, Mirinda enjoys spending quality time with her family and is a proud mother of three. Her son, Justyn, recently completed service in the U.S. Navy with the rank of Petty Officer Second Class, after being stationed at the Norfolk Naval Station in Norfolk, Virginia. Mirinda lives in New Baltimore, Michigan with her two daughters: Mia, a college student, and Adrianna, who is in middle school.

Kenneth Jenkins

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

For almost a decade, Kenneth Jenkins has served as the EMT Field Training Officer and Logistics/Fleet Coordinator for Pafford Medical Services’ Cleveland North, Bolivar County, Mississippi Operation. In these roles, Kenneth educates personnel and oversees the integrity of the EMS supply chain for the operations’ capital equipment and disposable EMS supplies. He also schedules preventive maintenance, ensures the on-duty status of the operation’s fleet, and oversees Pafford’s Central Mississippi operations as the region’s Supply Manager.

A stickler for detail, Kenneth’s “service before self” philosophy and “can do” attitude extends to ensuring the Cleveland, MS EMS workforce understands the safest and most efficient ways to exhibit a professional image. He walks his talk right down to the cleanliness of his ambulance and equipment and his professional appearance. He is known to say “It’s not always about us, but about the patient and what his or her needs are,” and to continually garner confidence and trust in his lifesaving work when interacting with patients and their families during emergency calls.

Kenneth feels that “the most rewarding part of the job is making a difference in someone else’s life,” and encourages “everyone in EMS to do their best, lead by example, and be willing to help others.”

When not at work, Kenneth is a family man who enjoys trying out new recipes on his grill/smoker and sharing the results with friends and family.

 

Randy Murry

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Randy Murry began his EMS career with Pafford Medical Services in July of 2012 as a part-time EMT-Basic, and later obtained his Paramedic degree from Coahoma Community College. After working as a Paramedic, he also gained several pre-hospital instructor certifications and became an in-house instructor for his peers. Randy currently functions as the Operations Manager for Pafford Medical Services in Coahoma County, Mississippi, overseeing the daily EMS system operations, which covers approximately 583 square miles and serves 24,000 citizens.

Outside of his daily duties as the local EMS Manager, Randy also serves as Chief of the Lula Volunteer Fire Department, a part-time Firefighter/Captain and Public Information Officer for the Coahoma County Fire Department, and the Subject Area Instructor for Coahoma Community College. Randy displays extreme dedication to his county and crews. He possesses an “all-in attitude” and continues to strive for excellence daily. During his tenure as Operations Manager, he has increased crew morale and raised the bar on personnel accountability tremendously. He believes that leading by example is the only way to run a successful operation.

In 2019, while working as Operations Manager, Randy responded to a report of an apartment fire with dispatch advising that the caller was still inside the residence. He arrived on the scene before the fire department and additional EMS personnel and noticed smoke coming from the residence’s door. He was able to enter the apartment building, safely locate a severely burned victim in the kitchen, and pulled her outside the residence to a safe area.

When he is not providing pre-hospital care or teaching, Randy enjoys traveling and taking part in outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and ATV trail riding. Randy has invested many hours in developing a great EMS team for the community he serves. His work ethic is contagious and his crews respect and appreciate his dedication and leadership ability.

 

Amanda Nesbitt

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Amanda graduated from nursing school at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith in 2003, and has worked at Pafford Air Med as an ICU Nurse and Travel Nurse for the past three years. She currently holds certifications as a Flight Nurse (CFRN), Transport Nurse (CTRN), and Critical Care Nurse (CCRN).

Amanda is a crucial member of Pafford’s nationally recognized Special Response Team. She was deployed to the U.S. Virgin Islands, where she was instrumental in the implementation of a robust Mobile Integrated Healthcare Program that provided medical assistance to the residents of St. Croix.

Throughout the years, Amanda has shown exemplary patient care, while endlessly seeking out educational opportunities to continue honing her craft. She cares for the most critical patients that are transported and has received countless stellar testimonials from both patients and peers.

 

Nancy Noel

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Nancy Noel has been in EMS for twenty-six years. In 1995, Nancy was attending college for nursing when she was involved in a serious car accident, suffering multiple injuries and fractures. A volunteer ambulance service and first responder service were called, and she was transported to the hospital. She felt very fortunate that strangers were there during her time of need and, after recovering from her injuries, Nancy decided to quit nursing school and pursue a career in EMS as a volunteer EMT and First Responder.

In 2014, Nancy decided to leave her volunteer service to work full-time as an EMT at Paramount Ambulance in Dubuque, IA. Despite her initial reservations of working in a large city that she was unfamiliar with, Nancy describes the experience as being incredibly rewarding. She has enjoyed working with other EMTs, Paramedics, and Critical Care Paramedics, and takes pleasure in knowing that she has made a difference in many lives.

Paramount Ambulance is proud to nominate Nancy as a Star of Life for her dedication to the company and to her patients. She can be counted on to consistently conduct herself in a professional and caring manner, and is always willing to go the extra mile for her patients and colleagues. She is a strong EMT who helps the Paramedics manage critical patients, and is the longest-tenured EMT at Paramount Ambulance.

Outside of her EMS career, Nancy works for a group home that owns and operates several homes for intellectually challenged clients. She enjoys spending time with her family, especially her granddaughter and her three dogs, Max, Meko, and Tundra. She also enjoys working on the family farm, reading, auto racing, and hockey.

Nicholas Henderson

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Nick Henderson started his EMS career wanting to follow in his family’s footsteps as a third-generation Firefighter for his hometown in Norwell, MA. He finished an EMT program in 1999. At that time, Norwell was moving towards becoming a Paramedic-level service and Nick was advised to get his Paramedic certification before applying. In order to gain the year of 911 experience required for the Paramedic school application, Nick got a job as an EMT with AMR in Brockton. He quickly moved to the Boston metropolitan area and started with Newton Rescue 1, a dedicated BLS 911 truck. In 2001, he was accepted to EMTS Inc. with Cape Cod Community College (CCCC).

Nick finished medic school with EMTS, Inc. and CCCC in late 2002. After all that time, he found firefighting was not a fit for him, and decided he wanted to be in the medical field instead. He started as a Paramedic on March 29, 2003, a date he remembers well, as it was one week after his wedding.

Over the years, Nick worked for a few different EMS agencies, but finally settled with Armstrong Ambulance in 2012. During Nick’s tenure, Armstrong has received many heartfelt notes from patients thanking him for his compassionate care. He worked his way through several positions at Armstrong, including Field Training Officer, Training Coordinator, and Field Operations Manager, and currently is proud to serve as Senior Clinical Manager.

According to Nick’s colleagues, Nick is passionate about the ins and outs of EMS and strives to constantly improve himself and all those around him. When Nick was promoted to Senior Clinical Manager, instead of retreating away to his office, he continued to work plenty of shifts on the front lines. It is not uncommon to spot Nick working an emergency shift on the weekends, gaining feedback from other field providers and spreading his vast knowledge to those who are hungry to learn. Nick is a talented Paramedic who pays great attention to even the slightest of details. He truly listens to his patients and takes the time to get to know each one. He often leads teams through uncertain and nerve-wracking situations while maintaining a calm demeanor that allows his team and patients to feel secure in his care.

However, it is as an educator that some of Nick’s greatest qualities are truly on display. Nick is dedicated to helping our providers reach clinical excellence. He is thorough, approachable, and patient when training new providers, and never fails to lend a hand to those whom he knows may be too scared to ask for it. Nick encourages questions and never shames those around him for not knowing something. He famously states “the stupidest questions are those never asked” to almost every trainee or provider he works with. Nick is constantly looking to better himself and dedicates his time to improving his clinical and interpersonal skills.

When not on duty, Nick enjoys spending his time with his kids, as well as being outdoors – hunting, fishing and ATVing.

Armstrong Ambulance is proud to call Nick Henderson our 2022 Star of Life!

Lyle Groves

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance is honored to be represented by Lyle Groves, Transport Nurse Manager, as a 2022 Star of Life.

Lyle began his career at Mayo Clinic in 1986 and has held a variety of roles throughout his tenure. He has never backed away from a challenge, which is what has always made Lyle such a key member of the team. Lyle’s first day as a nurse at Mayo was in the intensive care unit, and from that day forward he consistently looked for new things to learn and new ways to care for his patients.

“I take pride in meeting challenges head-on and finding solutions,” Lyle says. “I have never been one to say ‘that’s not my job;’ rather I look for ways to solve problems. For me, that approach is gratifying.”

Lyle’s colleagues describe him as one who is always willing to help and to reach out to others in need. He has the ability to recognize when a peer or patient is upset or struggling, and is ready to listen with calming compassion. Of his admirable attitude, Lyle says, “You have to approach your role with desire, ambition, find something that excites you and keeps you motivated. You also have to continue to learn, there is always something in health care to learn.”

Lyle is originally from Rice Lake, WI and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Viterbo University in La Crosse, WI.

Sondra Bergem

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Sondra Bergem was born in Fargo, ND and grew up just outside of Horace, ND, where she attended the West Fargo Public Schools. In her high school years, she developed an interest in the medical field by participating in Meritcare Hospital’s High School Explorers program. Sondra began volunteering for Horace Fire & Rescue just after graduating from high school in 1993. In 1994, she became an EMT and continued to volunteer throughout her college years. Upon graduating from Minnesota State University Moorhead in 1997, she began Paramedic school at F-M Ambulance, now Sanford Ambulance, and was offered a Paramedic position in 1998.

Over Sondra’s last twenty-four years at Sanford Ambulance, she has played active roles in the early development of the disaster team in the early 2000s, with the Ambulance High School Explorer program, and as a liaison for rural rescue squads. In 2013, Sondra was chosen to be a part of a pilot program for the initial Community Paramedic program for the state of North Dakota and at Sanford Health. She has worked to train new EMTs and Paramedics, worked with patients one-on-one in the Community Paramedic program to take care of patients in their own homes, worked as a Flight Paramedic in the hospital’s air-medical program, and treated and transported thousands of ground ambulance patients. Today, Sondra remains an active member of the Quality Insurance Committee, a Field Training Officer, and Charge Medic for her shift, obtaining the rank of Sergeant. She has been a union steward serving her fellow co-workers for the past sixteen years and is currently serving as the president of the local union.

Sondra is one of the most empathetic and compassionate pre-hospital care providers that you will find. Her numerous years of experience and training allow her to provide some of the best possible care when you call for help in your greatest time of need. Sondra is always willing to go the extra mile to make sure that all of her patients are well taken care of.

In her spare time, Sondra enjoys spending time with her family, watching baseball, spending time at the lake, and traveling. Sondra is married to Chris, who has served twenty-two years as an officer with the Fargo Police Department. They make their home in Fargo with their daughter Riley, age 8.

Alexander Pollak

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Alex started as a volunteer EMT in high school, and eventually worked toward a paid position as a Paramedic in New York City’s 911 system. He worked as a Paramedic on nights and weekends while studying for his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in finance. He experienced first-hand the devastation and chaos that can take or profoundly alter people’s lives as a First Responder to the 9/11 attacks in lower Manhattan, and this stimulated his passion for providing medical care.

After receiving his MBA in Finance and International Business, Alex went to work in the finance department at a national ambulance company where he discovered a void in the market for quality on-site medical services provided at events. Shortly after, he founded ParaDocs Worldwide Inc., an events medical company that focuses on large scale events and venues. The company has since grown to 12 full-time employees, and over 2,800 seasonal workers operating in 32 states and a few other countries.

ParaDocs has been featured in articles by The Wall Street Journal, Crain’s, The New York Times, CBS, Cheddar, and others. It has won numerous awards including Inc 5000 Fastest Growing Companies 2018, Forbes Best Startup Employers 2020, and Crain’s Most Notable in Healthcare 2020. Its clientele includes: The Met Gala, The Presidential Inauguration, The Grammys, NYFW, The Victoria Secret Fashion Show, most music festivals in the U.S., and many stadiums.

Alex was inducted into Crain’s 40 Under 40 in 2020, was awarded the Empire Whole Health Hero Award in 2021, and was selected to be part of the Mayor’s Committee for the Safe Reopening of NYC Post Pandemic. In addition to his work on the committee, Alex helped to manage the largest vaccination site in the country and donated over 200,000 masks to local hospitals and First Responders. Alex continues to work as a Paramedic, holds a Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma, is a Certified EMS Lab Instructor, is certified in TCCC and the Incident Command System, and is often a guest lecturer at the NYU School of Professional Studies.

David “Blake” Norwood

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

David “Blake” Norwood has been named a 2022 Star of Life for LifeNet, Inc. in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Growing up, Blake planned to follow in his dad’s footsteps and work in law enforcement. After graduating from Camden-Harmony Grove High School, he attended Arkansas Tech University, where he earned degrees in sociology and criminal justice.

Shortly thereafter, Blake started his career with the Pope County Sheriff’s Office and then the Camden Police Department. In 2015, Blake earned a specialized degree in law enforcement from the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy.

During his tenure at the Camden Police Department, Blake was dispatched on a call that would ultimately change the trajectory of his career.

“We were having our Christmas party at the police department when I got dispatched on a call for an ‘unknown problem.’ When I got there, a man came running out and said, ‘My friend has been shot.’ I found the victim shot in the leg three times. I took the belt off the man who had directed me to the scene, and I made a tourniquet using it and my collapsible baton. I held it until EMS got there. Helping him felt good, more so than getting a drunk driver off the street, arresting someone for a domestic dispute, or writing a ticket,” Blake said.

Blake received a lifesaving award from the police department for his actions on scene.

When his wife, Amanda, took a teaching job in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Blake felt it was the right time to enroll in the EMT program at the Arkansas Fire Academy. Shortly thereafter, Blake began working for LifeNet. Since then, Blake has served as a Field Training Officer (FTO) for new EMTs at LifeNet.

“I enjoy teaching, especially when you have people who are open and want to learn,” Blake said. “I became an FTO because I wanted to be able to reach more people. My teaching indirectly touches a lot more patients because I’ve taught the other EMTs how to do their job. I always tell my orientees to do the right thing and take responsibility for their actions, and I try to live by those things, too.”

Blake’s favorite type of calls involve trauma patients.

“They are the most cut and dry. You can see the problem and you can fix it. There aren’t a lot of questions to be asked,” he said.

Blake was nominated for a Star of Life by his peers and selected by a committee of former Stars of Life at LifeNet, Inc. His integrity, empathy, and commitment to the job and to his patients are just a few of the reasons why Blake’s colleagues admire him. Blake works tirelessly to train new hires and to provide the best patient care possible in every situation.

Blake plans to enroll in Paramedic school in the future and ultimately hopes to work as a SWAT Medic, combining his love for EMS and law enforcement.

When he is not at work, Blake enjoys going out with his friends, playing video games, going to the gym, watching television with his wife, Amanda, and playing with his dog, Scottie, and cats, Matlock and Beldar.

Cory Miller

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Cory Miller has been named a 2022 Star of Life for LifeNet, Inc. in Stillwater, Oklahoma.

Cory started his career in EMS after being laid off in 2008 from his job painting airplanes for Cessna.

“Since I was unemployed, the state said I could go to a tech school. I chose EMT school, but I’m not sure why. My dad is a retired police chief and my mom has always worked in the hospital. She was an EMT for a long time,” Cory said.

After finishing the EMT program at Coffeyville Community College, Cory decided to also complete the EMT-Intermediate program at the school.

“When I graduated EMT-I, I started working at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center in the ICU before deciding I wanted to go to Paramedic school,” Cory said. “At the time, I thought I wanted to become a Flight Paramedic. Additionally, I was working as an EMT instructor at the community college when they found out that they had to start a Paramedic class or lose their accreditation. I was one of three Paramedic students in that class.”

In 2013, Cory graduated the Paramedic program and contemplated moving to Dallas, Texas to work as a Paramedic, but he landed in Stillwater, Oklahoma instead.

“I had a bunch of friends attending college at Oklahoma State University, so I stopped here and basically never left,” he said.

Since starting work for LifeNet in November of 2013, Cory has dedicated his career to making a positive difference in the lives of his patients and coworkers.

“I enjoy dealing with the sweet old ladies,” Cory said, when asked to describe his favorite type of call. “I like hearing stories and making conversation with people who have been around for a while. I especially like getting to converse on the way to the hospital with the people who have grown up in Stillwater about how much the town has changed.”

In addition to his EMS certifications, Cory is also a BLS, PALS, and EVOC instructor, and in 2018, he was named a Field Training Officer (FTO).

“I enjoy the FTO position because it allows me to help mold new Paramedics and show them different things. I enjoy the leadership aspect of it,” Cory said.

His advice to others just getting started in EMS is simple: “Never stop studying or learning new things. It’s an ever-evolving career path with new medicines and new technologies.”

Cory was nominated for the Star of Life honor by his peers for his dedication and commitment to the company. His peers describe him as someone who is consistently positive and motivated, and who is always willing to help others in any way he can. His leadership skills are reflected in the countless lives of the team members that he mentors, and the company would not be the same without this guidance.

When he is not at work, Cory enjoys spending time with his family. He married his wife, Heather, in 2016, and they have two daughters, Drew and Rori.

Ronald House

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Ronald House has been named a 2022 Star of Life for LifeNet, Inc. in Texarkana, Texas.

Growing up in Hooks, Texas, Ronald was involved in the Boy Scouts.

“That’s what got me into emergency services. I took a first aid and CPR class for the Scouts when I was fifteen that was taught by the Hooks Volunteer Fire Department. They had high school cadets, so I joined the department,” Ronald recalled, talking about his start as a first responder.

A self-proclaimed book- and band-nerd, Ronald graduated in the Top 10 of his class at Hooks High School and headed off to college as a music major.

“I realized it wasn’t what I wanted to do, so I came back and enrolled in criminal justice classes and thought I’d go to work for the FBI. I also took the EMT program for the fire department,” he said.

When he finished the EMT program, he realized he had found his calling. He started at what was then St. Michaels EMS (later LifeNet, Inc.) in Texarkana and immediately enrolled in Paramedic school. He became a Field Training Officer (FTO) a few years later and then ran the quality improvement program for the company for several years.

“I was given the opportunity to manage the communications center for two years, but I quickly realized the position wasn’t for me. I went back out to the field and fell in love with my job again,” he recalled. “Some people want to promote up and be in management. I just wanted to be a Paramedic. Several years ago, I had the opportunity to become a Relief Operations Manager (OM). I did that for a few years. I didn’t like it. I look at my job as a ministry, and I wasn’t able to minister to patients the same way in the OM role.”

Throughout his three-decade career in EMS, Ronald has suffered three burnouts. Each time, he has taken the opportunity to self-reflect and grow as a professional.

“During one of the burnouts, I realized I needed to take a timeout from training everyone else as an FTO and focus on my own education. It’s one thing to teach everyone, but it’s another thing to teach yourself,” he said. “I took a tactical combat casualty care class and the critical care paramedic course. But when a staffing shortage hit a few years ago, I got asked if I would be an FTO again. I said I wouldn’t give more than three months. Doing it again, I fell back in love with it, and I haven’t stopped teaching others since.”

Ronald credits his faith in God for helping him find the passion in both his work life and his marriage.

“The more intense my relationship with God has become, the better my personal relationship with my wife has become. My professional life has changed, too, and I love my job. It’s a terrible job, and you have to see a lot of terrible things. But my job is my purpose, and I think I’m where I’m supposed to be,” Ronald said. “I am able to give and receive at the same time. I’m able to give joy and comfort to folks, and I get lots of laughs. I love the compassion that God has given me. I’m not at this level in my job without it. I feel being a Paramedic is one of my gifts that God has given me. The more I embrace that, the better my job gets.”

Ronald enjoys being an FTO now because it not only helps him grow as he trains others, but it also allows him to instill the right attitude in people just getting started in the career. Part of that attitude is making sure people understand that, no matter the reason why someone has called 911, you have been put in their path that day for a reason.

“We never know how many people we may save just because we were nice. We may feel some of the calls we go on aren’t true emergencies, but we also have to remember, sometimes just by being there, we are the person God used as the answer to avoid their permanent solution for a temporary problem. Every interaction we have with someone, we have an opportunity to provide a simple act of kindness that may prevent them from doing something that day they couldn’t undo,” he said. “Just be nice. It makes such a huge difference.”

Ronald was nominated as a Star of Life by his peers for his dedication to his patients. He is consistently hardworking and kind, and always goes above and beyond to put a smile on his patients’ faces.

Ronald is married to his wife, Samantha, and they have a blended family that includes both grown children and grandchildren. When he is not at work, Ronald enjoys building and tinkering on things, and collecting antique books.