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Archives: Stars

Adam Mysona

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scott Munoz

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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

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

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

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

Amber Munch

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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

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

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

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

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

Michael Mitchell

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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

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

Loren Mitchell

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Amanda McQuistian

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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

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

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

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

Eli Melamed

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

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

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

Alyssa Meier

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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

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

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

Maurice Matthews

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

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

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

Don Marr

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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

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

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

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

Eric Lumpkin

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Since joining Central EMS in 2008, Eric Lumpkin has become an invaluable asset to the team. As Dispatch Supervisor and Training Officer, Eric has revolutionized the company’s training programs, ensuring both efficient onboarding and continuous education for all staff. His leadership style—marked by open communication and a commitment to improvement—has created a positive and productive work environment.

Eric’s dedication goes far beyond his official duties. He regularly volunteers for special operations, from repairing ambulances to participating in hurricane evacuations. His willingness to take on any challenge has made him indispensable to the team, and his actions have earned him a reputation as a role model, inspiring his colleagues to strive for excellence.

Beyond his professional achievements, Eric’s warm personality and selfless nature have garnered him the respect and admiration of his peers. As a devoted family man and a friend to many, he fosters camaraderie in the workplace, boosting morale and strengthening team cohesion.

Eric’s contributions to Central EMS and the broader community exemplify the highest standards of the emergency medical services profession. His unwavering commitment to excellence and the positive impact he has had on both his colleagues and the community make him an ideal candidate for the Stars of Life award.

George Lombardo

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George Lombardo is a dynamic and visionary leader with a remarkable record of driving growth and innovation in EMS. A Critical Care Paramedic with 17 years of clinical experience and three years in management, George is considered a rising star in the profession.

Currently serving as Operations Manager at Superior Mobile Health in San Antonio, Texas, George has a proven track record of leadership and innovation. After being promoted to Field Supervisor in 2021, George played a pivotal role in shaping the position to its current scope before advancing to Operations Manager in 2023.

During his tenure, the organization’s field staff has grown from 45 to over 120 members, and the fleet has expanded from 6 to 14 ambulances during peak hours. In 2023, the organization handled nearly 20,000 calls, reflecting tremendous growth.

George has led several significant initiatives, including mobile data management, recruitment and retention strategies, work/life balance scheduling, and the implementation of the EMS-FTEP (Field Training and Evaluation Program). In 2022, George graduated from Fitch & Associates’ prestigious Ambulance Service Manager Program, where his team project was selected for presentation at Pinnacle 2023.

Committed to teamwork and upholding strong values, George continues to lead with a focus on innovation, growth, and excellence in EMS.

Miki Leslie

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Miki Leslie is being recognized for her extraordinary actions on August 15, 2023, when she responded to a single-vehicle rollover accident involving two children and two adults. Despite being off duty, Miki arrived at the scene before any responders, as the accident occurred near her home. Without hesitation, she immediately triaged all the patients and provided crucial updates to the first responders en route.

One of the patients was a young child who had been ejected from the vehicle and was drifting in and out of consciousness. By the time EMS arrived, Miki had already completed full assessments on each patient and was holding C-spine precautions on the youngest victim. She remained on scene throughout the entire call, assisting the responding EMS team with critical patient care tasks, including suctioning, applying a C-collar, assisting with backboarding, aiding in intubation, bagging the patient via ETT, and hot-loading a patient into a responding air ambulance.

Miki’s quick thinking, skillful actions, and dedication played a vital role in the successful management of the scene and the treatment of each patient, even without the advantage of additional help or equipment. Her selfless service and expertise on that day exemplify the best of what it means to be an EMS professional.

Carla Landrum

Written by Amanda Riordan on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Carla Landrum joined the Puckett EMS family in March 2012 as an EMT, bringing with her a deep compassion and a heart dedicated to serving others. From her first day, Carla displayed the work ethic and character that defines an EMS professional. In 2016, she obtained her Paramedic license, and in 2023, she was promoted to Field Training Officer. Carla has earned numerous commendations for her excellent customer service and was awarded Puckett EMS’ highest honor, “Employee of the Year,” in 2023.

Outside of work, Carla enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, Matt, and their three daughters, Haylie (16), Addison (14), and Stella (11). Her love for nature is reflected in her hobbies of camping and kayaking. She also has a soft spot for animals, especially her goats and chickens. Carla’s greatest pride is her children, all of whom are honor students, with the two eldest being members of the local high school marching band.

Carla is well-respected by her peers and is known for her exceptional critical decision-making skills, which make her an outstanding FTO. In February, Carla was the first on the scene of an active shooter incident at a local high school, where two victims were critically injured. She worked seamlessly with a unified command structure, performing rapid triage and transport roles with textbook precision. Despite working in the “hot zone” under intense pressure, Carla maintained her composure and successfully triaged, treated, and transported both victims within five minutes of arriving on the scene. Both victims fully recovered.

Puckett EMS is proud to honor Carla Landrum as our 2024 Star of Life!

Matthew Lambert

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Matthew Lambert is a passionate EMS advocate who has made a significant impact in his community by raising awareness about the role and services of his EMS operation. Known for his selfless dedication to teaching, Matthew goes out of his way to help fellow clinicians stay informed about the latest advancements in the emergency medical field. His expertise has earned him recognition for numerous “saves,” and he has received multiple awards for achieving ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation) in the field.

One of Matthew’s most notable calls involved a patient trapped in a fiery car crash, suffering burns over 90% of their body. Despite the life-threatening injuries, Matthew’s swift and skillful intervention saved the patient’s life. His dedication to his craft and his community continues to inspire and make a profound difference in the lives of those he serves.

Chris Thomason

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Chris Thomason, honored as a 2024 Star of Life, has over 20 years of experience as a paramedic with ProMed Ambulance in El Dorado, Arkansas. In addition to his paramedic duties, Chris serves as an EMS Instructor and CQI Coordinator, and he is currently pursuing his license as a Community Paramedic. His passion for promoting excellence in EMS is evident in both his professional career and his dedication to supporting the community.

Chris was nominated for the prestigious Stars of Life award for his heroic actions in saving the life of a sudden cardiac arrest victim while on vacation. While at the beach, Chris noticed a man collapse and immediately sprang into action. He initiated CPR and, with the help of other responders, successfully restored the victim’s heartbeat. Thanks to Chris’ swift actions, calm demeanor, and clinical expertise, the 39-year-old victim made a full recovery and was able to reunite with his family.

Chris’ commitment to EMS, combined with his leadership and exceptional clinical skills, continues to make a profound impact on the lives of those he serves.

Daniel Laguna

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Dan Laguna is being recognized for a lifetime of service that spans both the EMS industry and the military. His life has been compared to a Hollywood movie, filled with early-life hardships overcome and a highly decorated career in the Green Berets. His military service includes combat in Operation Desert Storm and Mogadishu, Somalia, where he participated in the famous “Blackhawk Down” search-and-rescue operation. His autobiography, You Have to Live Hard to Be Hard, has influenced and informed aviation and military operations around the world.

Dan’s distinguished post-military career with REACH Air Medical Services has allowed him to continue influencing pilots across the country with his knowledge, expertise, and example of sacrifice, dedication, and resilience. Having often been in need of medical attention during his combat experience, Dan now views the EMS field as an opportunity to give back for the help he received when he needed it most. His greatest satisfaction comes from being there for others in their time of need.

Alissa Krisher

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Alissa (Ali) Krisher, a Critical Care Paramedic with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Wisconsin, has been a dedicated member of the EMS community for over 11 years. Originally from Marion, Wisconsin, a small town of around 1,200 people, Alissa began her EMS journey as an EMT and quickly advanced to become a paramedic. She later obtained her Critical Care Paramedic certification, serving many years responding to 911 calls and providing expert care to her patients.

As part of the Critical Care Team at Superior, Alissa has brought her passion for exceptional patient care to every call. She has also dedicated time outside the ambulance, teaching EMS at a local community college and volunteering at numerous medical events. She holds a special place in her heart for pediatric patients, always striving to provide the highest level of care to the youngest and most vulnerable members of the community.

Outside of her professional life, Alissa is a single mother to her 6-year-old daughter, Aubree, who is the light of her life. Aubree is the driving force behind Alissa’s dedication to EMS, inspiring her to be the best version of herself both as a professional and as a mother. Together, they enjoy fishing, riding their family’s SXS, cooking, playing various sports, and spending time with family. Both share a love for reading, and their bond is central to Alissa’s motivation to succeed.

Alissa is deeply honored to have been chosen as a recipient of the Star of Life award and looks forward to many more years in EMS. She hopes to inspire her daughter—and others—to believe that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Her unwavering dedication to her profession and her commitment to being a role model for Aubree exemplify the values of a true Star of Life.

David Kingdon

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David Kingdon is being recognized for his outstanding leadership during the devastating fires on Maui, particularly in the town of Lahaina. David is the team leader of Maui’s only rapid-response unit and has been instrumental in expanding the unit’s capabilities to perform advanced functions, including training and deployments with the Special Response Team unit at the Maui Police Department, and collaborating with the U.S. Coast Guard to launch specially trained paramedics on their response boat. When fires on the island spread rapidly in August of 2023, David took it upon himself to act as medical incident commander. He worked tirelessly in uncertain conditions to ensure that patients were triaged, treated and transported safely to healthcare facilities and that his team members remained safe as well. As the fires were brought under control, he continued to ensure EMS operations were uninterrupted while the island dealt with tremendous loss.

Brian Keith

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Brian Keith began his career in the fire service in Arizona, dedicating twenty years to serving his community. Throughout those years, he faced many challenges, but the common denominator in all situations was being part of a team that provided superior care to those in need. Retiring as a Captain/Paramedic, Brian decided to move to Wisconsin to be closer to his family.

Brian is married to his wife Kelly, and together they have a blended family with four children, aged 23 to 31, and two young grandchildren. When not working, Brian enjoys traveling to Arizona and Florida to visit his children and grandkids. He and Kelly are both passionate about golf and enjoy spending time on the course whenever possible. He also loves fishing, kayaking, exploring Wisconsin, and spending time with their two huskies.

Currently working as an EMT in Superior, Wisconsin, Brian and his partner, fellow Star of Life recipient Alissa Krisher, were recognized for their excellent care and assistance provided during an emergent CCT interfacility transport. The patient, who had survived cardiac arrest, required seamless, critical care, and Brian and Alissa’s expertise ensured a smooth transport to a higher level of care. Their teamwork and dedication made a profound impact on the patient’s outcome.

Though unable to attend the Star of Life award ceremony in person, Brian is deeply appreciative of this recognition. He humbly acknowledges the contributions of the first responders and hospital staff involved in the case, emphasizing that saving the patient’s life was a collective effort driven by a shared commitment to providing excellent care.