It is with deep regret that FDNY announced the line of duty death of FDNY EMT Yadira Arroyo on March 16. EMT Arroyo, 44, was assigned to Station 26 in the Bronx and bravely served the Department for 14 years. EMT Arroyo was critically injured while responding to a medical call in the Bronx when an individual seized control of her ambulance and struck her. EMT Arroyo was transported to Jacobi Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries. EMT Arroyo is the 8th member of FDNY EMS to die in the line of duty, and the 1146th member of the Department to make the Supreme Sacrifice while serving our city.
EMT Arroyo leaves behind a large and close-knit family, including five sons ages 8–24, and her mother, Ms. Leida M. Acevedo-Rosado.
Amanda Wilkinson has been in EMS for 15 years and has worked in a variety of private and non-profit EMS settings. Amanda has been a Paramedic for 11 years, and devoted much of her career to public and EMS education. Paramedic Wilkinson is a NAEMSE-trained instructor, and serves as an assistant Paramedic Program instructor, as well as a regional Paramedic preceptor. Amanda also holds additional instructor certifications for PALS, ACLS, and BCLS. Amanda also previously served as a NHTSA car seat instructor. Amanda is a full-time mother of three children, ages 14, 9, and 7 years old.
After American Ambulance of Visalia doubled in size in a three-month period, the company was left without a training supervisor. Paramedic Wilkinson was selected as the training supervisor and appointed to be the company’s prehospital liaison officer for the region’s EMS system. Paramedic Wilkinson has worked tirelessly to raise the bar on training, documentation standards, and internal educational programs. American Ambulance of Visalia is proud to recognize Amanda Wilkinson as a 2017 Star of Life.
Tiffany Johnson has served at Medic for 17 years. More than just a job, Tiffany believes that EMS is her calling.
A mentor to many, Tiffany’s coworker noted, “Tiffany has no problem sharing her knowledge and taking time out to help you strengthen your skills to be a better Paramedic.” Tiffany assists others during times of need, and handles difficult situations with remarkable patience and admirable tact.
With seven nominations from fellow employees, selecting Tiffany Johnson as a 2017 Star of Life was a no brainer. As a Paramedic Crew Chief, Tiffany exemplifies Medic’s mission, “saving a life, hold a hand,” both on and off duty. Tiffany treats each patient like a family member; with respect and dignity, no matter the nature of the call. Former patients have asked for Tiffany because of the excellent care they received from her.
Tiffany’s dedication to her community continues even when she is not on duty at Medic. In her free time, Tiffany serves with a volunteer group of women who have adopted Hunter Woods Nursing Home.
James Garvin began his career in EMS relatively late in life. Prior to becoming an EMT, James worked for 21 years as a machine operator for a nationally known paper production company. During his employment with the paper company, James became a member of the fire brigade and Emergency Response Team. When James retired in 2006, he joined Muskogee County EMS. Since that time, James has furthered his education and is now a Paramedic. In addition to his duties as a field provider, James is also a supervisor, Field Training Officer, a certified CLEET officer, and a tactical medic with the Muskogee Police Department.
James has embraced his new career with passion and professionalism. Soon after James started as an EMT, he saw a need to enhance our service’s mapping programs. On his own time and without expectation, James wrote and distributed a 30-page mapping companion that provides simple, easy-to-follow directions to the most obscure streets, avenues, and roads in our county. Even with our current mapping programs, medics still rely on the directions in James’s book when they receive a call for an address on an unknown street.
Over the last 10 years with Muskogee County EMS, James has received numerous awards and accolades. Some of James’s many recognitions include EMT-Basic of the Year, Supervisor of the Year, Paramedic of the Year, Employee of the Month, and—most importantly to him— multiple code saves.
When asked what he likes most about his job, James is quick to say that it is the satisfaction of knowing he’s helped save someone’s life. “When I get there and they are in cardiac arrest, not breathing, no pulse, and then later they are being discharged from the hospital and sometimes even coming to see you and say ‘Thank you,’ well, it’s just something that can’t be explained. It’s the best thing in the world,” James explained.
Each day James exemplifies the standard for Muskogee County EMS in his professionalism, compassion, and exemplary performance. Muskogee County EMS is honored to present James Garvin as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.
Randall “Randy” Frederick is a full-time, Field Training Officer and EMT. Randy began his career at North East Mobile Health Services (NEMHS) as a wheelchair van operator. Randy found his calling and became an EMT, a role he has filled admirably for the last four years. Randy was quickly promoted to a Field Training Officer, where he has excelled and provided knowledge and guidance to many of our newer employees.
Randy is the person you would want to take care of you. Randy has a certain calmness, and connection to people that conveys, “It’s going to be OK,” without saying a word. One of our most-praised Field Training Officers, Randy is compassionate, kind, and has a talent for providing guidance and encouragement to new employees.
Recent evaluations of Randy by his trainees feature positive comments that he is “knowledgable,” “unbelievably patient,” and “made me feel welcome and was always encouraging”. Randy was also described as “one heck of a nice guy”.
Perhaps Randy best expresses his status as a Star of Life in his own words. Recently, Randy was discussing the transport of patients going to a hospice care center with a new employee. Randy said, “These are some of my favorite calls. Certainly not the passing of a life, but rather having the honor and privilege to be a small part of a person’s final journey. To stop at a beach and smell the ocean, to visit a favorite place, we can help someone have peace and dignity. That is what EMS is really all about.”
While attending college in 2007, Kerry Flynn began working in Armstrong Ambulance’s billing department. After receiving her Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) certification, Kerry began working on Armstrong Ambulance’s communications team. As an Armstrong Ambulance Dispatcher, Kerry performs a multitude of jobs and gracefully balances the needs of patients, facilities, employees, and the company. Kerry has a natural talent for emergency dispatching and is commended by her peers for her ability to solve complex problems.
Kerry’s nomination for Stars of Life comes as no surprise. She consistently receives positive feedback from crews, management, and facilities regarding the exceptional job she performs. Kerry constantly demonstrates advanced knowledge of dispatching and company procedures, and excels as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher. She is dynamic, patient-centric, friendly, and energetic. Kerry excels in every facet of her role and Armstrong Ambulance Service is proud to nominate her as a Star of Life.
Jackson County Paramedic Coty Peardon is known as an “A-team player” who always steps up to help out. Often, Coty volunteers before he is even asked. Coty has also been the recipient of many local, state, national, and departmental awards, commendations, and titles.
When Coty was 16, he joined an EMS scouting group called Venturing that offered camping, whitewater rafting, and ambulance ride-alongs. There, Coty learned the true merits of teamwork while finding his calling to help others, and a passion for EMS was born.
After graduating high school, Coty enrolled in Northwestern Technical College’s EMT-Intermediate/BS program, in Georgia’s prestigious EMS Region 1. During the yearlong EMT program, Coty worked full-time as a cardiac monitor technician, obtained his AHA BLS instructor certification, and still graduated with honors.
While continuing to work full-time as an EMT and attend Paramedic school, Coty made time to develop additional skills. Coty achieved his National Senior Firefighter, Fire Apparatus Operator, and Paramedic Rope Rescue certifications before graduating with honors and receiving the Excellence in Advanced Airway Award.
Coty hasn’t slowed down since joining the Acadian Ambulance team in November 2015. Within a few months, Coty obtained his Critical Care Certification, once again landing among the top in his class.
Coty is currently helping to revamp the new-hire process in Jackson County, establishing an Acadian Explorers Post, and creating an EMS competition. Coty is also actively pursuing his flight paramedic certification.
Acadian is proud to recognize Coty as our Louisiana/Mississippi Paramedic of the Year as well as an AAA Star of Life.
Tyler Niblett decided as a teenager that he had a mission in life to serve and to help others.
Tyler’s father, Craig, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer when Tyler was 14, and died six weeks later after a very short and traumatic battle. Tyler remembers with fondness and gratitude some of the outstanding caregivers who had an impact on him during this difficult time. These health care providers helped Tyler understand and cope with what was going on around him, and they cared for his dad as if he were their only patient. Their passion and skill led Tyler to decide that he, too, would become a caregiver who would make the same impact in the lives of others.
At age 16, Tyler became an Explorer with Mobile Fire and Rescue, marking the beginning of his career in EMS.
In 2013, Tyler balanced his duties at the fire department with enlisting and training in the Army National Guard. Tyler also started a “Share the Road” fundraiser and organized a 12-week bowling league that raised money to help pay for a family friend’s medical expenses following an accident.
When Tyler graduated from high school, he was given the “Heart of a Servant” award, the highest honor given by his school in recognition of volunteer service to the community.
The day after finishing high school, Tyler left for basic training and Advanced Individual Training (AIT). Returning home, Tyler registered at Fortis College to obtain his EMT certification and returned to the Mobile Fire Department as a volunteer.
In 2015, Tyler completed his EMT course and passed NREMT on the first attempt. Tyler faced challenges finding a position because he was only 19, and many EMS organizations were unwilling to hire an EMT younger than 21. Tyler did not let this stop him—with drive, diligence, and quite a bit of that Tyler-charm everyone knows, he landed his first position with Newman’s Ambulance. Shortly afterward, Tyler joined Acadian.
Tyler will mark his two-year anniversary with Acadian in July 2017. Tyler is enrolled to begin Paramedic training at Acadian’s National EMS Academy and is a volunteer with the St. Elmo’s Fire Department.
Tyler serves his community with passion, whether at work, at home, or in volunteer service.
Acadian Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Tyler as a Star of Life as well as Acadian’s Louisiana/Mississippi EMT of the Year.
When it comes to involvement and teamwork, Acadian Ambulance Texas EMT Rhonda Dees-Lockwood, shines daily. Rhonda joined Acadian in 2011 during the Northstar acquisition, and has since been an anchor on one of the region’s dedicated 911 trucks, functioning at the EMT-Intermediate level.
Rhonda is actively involved in Acadian’s Critical Support Intervention Team, and is a Safety Committee member. Rhonda is a preceptor and a station monitor, and participates in community events while representing our organization.
Rhonda’s life outside of work demonstrates similar threads of service to others. Rhonda is actively involved in the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
It is this dedication to serving her community, coupled with her commitment to serving her patients, that make Rhonda a clear choice for our 2017 Acadian Ambulance Texas EMT of the Year.
Sloane Brown, Paramedic with Acadian Ambulance in Texas, found her passion for EMS when working as a lifeguard for the City of Allen. At 19, Sloane saved her first life when one of her peers became unresponsive and apneic. Sloane followed her training as a lifeguard to open the patient’s airway and provide rescue breathing until Paramedics arrived.
Sloane’s father enrolled her in the very next EMT class. After completing it, Sloane and her father attended Paramedic class together in Burnet County, then volunteered together with the local fire department.
Sloane joined Capital EMS in December 2012, then Acadian Ambulance in June 2015. Sloane works in Lampasas County, and has recently become a preceptor. In addition to working full-time, Sloane is taking a full load of college courses.
When Sloane is not studying or saving lives, she enjoys spending time with her friends and her two dogs, Stark and Diezel.
Sloane was chosen as a Star of Life as she is Acadian’s Texas Paramedic of the Year.
Robbie Seastrunk is a full-time Paramedic and Field Training Officer at LifeNet Inc. in Texarkana, Texas. After graduating from high school, Robbie joined the local volunteer Fire Department. While with the Fire Department, Robbie attended the Arkansas Fire Academy EMT course. Upon completion, Robbie became an Industrial EMT for Weyerhaeuser in Mt Pine, Arkansas where he worked for eight years before choosing to become a full-time EMT in Hot Springs. Robbie continued his education and obtained his Paramedic certification in 2000. Since that time, Robbie has worked as a Paramedic, Operations Manager, and Field Training Officer in Hot Springs and Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, and Texarkana, Texas.
Robbie possesses the ability to positively interact with anyone. Robbie consistently demonstrates a commitment to providing both great service to patients and support to his fellow team members. Robbie prides himself in making a difference in every patient’s life, regardless of the situation presented, putting them instantly at ease with his calm, easy-going demeanor. Robbie also enjoys mentoring new team members and Paramedic students, doing so in such a way that makes them feel welcome and completely at ease in the stressful environment of EMS.
In his free time, Robbie enjoys spending time with Christy, their children, & grandson. Robbie loves hunting, fishing, and all outdoor recreational activities.
Cheryl was born and raised in Crofton, Maryland. Cheryl became an EMT-Basic in 2006, and served her hometown community for nearly five years. In 2010, Cheryl earned her certificate in Paramedicine from Anne Arundel Community College. Cheryl was then hired by Queen Anne’s County Department of Emergency Services.
Cheryl moved to Troy, New York, in 2015, and joined Mohawk Ambulance Service in February of 2016. Since being hired by Mohawk, Cheryl has proven herself to be a vital asset to the team.
Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to honor Cheryl as an American Ambulance Association 2017 Star of Life. Cheryl has been recognized by her peers and supervisors as a “lead by example” role model who maintains a consistently positive attitude. In less than one year of employment, Cheryl earned Mohawk Ambulance’s Distinguished Service Award. Cheryl’s commitment to patient care is demonstrated by numerous compliments from patients and patients’ family members. Cheryl genuinely enjoys helping people in a career that presents new challenges every day.
Prior to his EMS career, Jeff was a youth pastor. Jeff was very passionate about his job, and had never thought about a career in EMS. It was not until Jeff’s own family had to call upon an EMS services to administer aid to his sick grandmother that he considered joining the profession. Jeff was impressed by the knowledge and compassion the first responders provided, sparking his interest.
Jeff became an EMT Basic, and then quickly entered Paramedic school where he earned his Associates Degree in Paramedicine. Jeff is currently working toward his Bachelors degree in Paramedicine, and one day hopes to continue his career on the ocean as a cruise ship Paramedic.
Jeff is a model employee and continues to grow his knowledge in our ever-changing industry. Jeff’s compassion for his patients is evident on every call. Jeff is always willing to do whatever it takes to provide the best care possible, and treats each patient like he would treat family. Jeff is the definition of dependable and he is the first to assist on a call, even if he is off duty.
Jeff is well respected in the community and among his colleagues. Jeff is the top preceptor for the local paramedic program, and enjoys sharing his knowledge and skills with students.
Any company would be proud to be represented by Jeff Russell. Jeff’s respectfulness, promptness, and professionalism are what make him a Pafford Medical Services Employee of the Year and a true Star of Life.
Elizabeth has been an EMT at MedStar for three years. Elizabeth has always had a passion for caring for people and a career in EMS has always been her dream, even as a small child. Once Elizabeth was old enough, she began working in local hospitals to gain the patient care experience necessary to apply for a position at MedStar.
Elizabeth loves helping people, and enjoys the daily excitement and fun that every shift brings! Elizabeth is currently in Paramedic school and looks forward to advancing her career with new clinical skills.
Elizabeth also acknowledges the hard moments in EMS. Elizabeth remembers her most difficult call as being a very tragic child abuse case that resulted in a child suffering a cardiac arrest, as she and her partner worked feverishly to save the child’s life.
Elizabeth was nominated by her peers to represent MedStar as a Star of Life.
Aaron Pawol has been a 911 ground Paramedic at Mercy Flights since January of 2009. During this time, Aaron has built strong relationships with his community, peers, supervisors, and patients.
Since joining our staff, Aaron has excelled in training Paramedic interns in his role as a Field Training Officer. Aaron welcomes new employees into an environment that promotes learning and accountability. Aaron is also perceived as a mentor by his peers.
In his off time, Aaron teaches at the local Community College Paramedic Program as a Lab Instructor. Aaron is also an avid soccer and golf enthusiast.
On February 25, 2017, while off-duty and playing in a local golf tournament, Aaron noticed some commotion on the green at the next hole. Aaron heard sirens in the distance, and drove his cart up to the scene to investigate. Aaron saw that there was active CPR being performed on an individual, so he identified himself as an off-duty Paramedic and began to assist. Due to the relationship Aaron has built with local fire personnel, they asked him to stay to “run” the call, even after the arrival of the fire/rescue unit and ambulance. Aaron continued to take the lead on the cardiac arrest patient and when return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was attained, the ambulance crew proceeded to transport the patient.
Aaron later received some follow up information from the transporting ambulance crew that the patient received intervention in the Cath Lab at a local hospital, and had survived the incident. Aaron thought that the story ended there.
Several days later, Aaron was surprised (to say the least) when the patient called his personal cell phone to say “thank you”. The patient had contacted the golf course’s pro shop and eventually tracked down Aaron to express his gratitude.
Although usually composed, the night Aaron received the phone call from the patient, he was visibly emotional. Aaron received recognition that was well deserved.
Aaron is truly an advocate for patients and his community. Aaron is completely selfless and commits himself to his profession and to helping others. Aaron is a leader, a mentor, and a true asset to Mercy Flights.
Padrick started working for Bay Cities Ambulance shortly after his 21st birthday. Since then, Padrick has made his way up from wheelchairs to working full time on the ambulance. Padrick received his paramedic degree in one of the first paramedic courses offered at Southwest Oregon Community College. Shortly after receiving his degree, Padrick transferred to the Roseburg Division and assisted in growing it into what it is today. Padrick was on the first Bay Cities Ambulance that arrived on scene at the Umpqua Community College shooting and he transported numerous patients that day. Padrick now runs the Supply & Acquisition Department at Bay Cities in addition to his full time duties on the ambulance.
Padrick shows dedication, thoughtfulness, and commitment to a job well done each day. Padrick leads by example, and for this reason, Bay Cities Ambulance is proud to call him a Star of Life.
Matthew Miner is a Paramedic and Field Supervisor for Action Ambulance Service. Matthew brings nearly eight years of EMS experience to our community.
Matthew began his career as a volunteer EMT-Basic for Hampton Falls Fire in New Hampshire, which inspired Matthew to serve his local community. Matthew loved the work, and so began his career in EMS. Matthew proceeded to join AMR as an EMT-Intermediate, where he continued his education to attain the ranks of Paramedic, Certified Intensive Care Provider, and Field Training Officer/Supervisor. Matthew also spent time working per diem at the Rye, Kensington, and Kingston, New Hampshire Fire Departments.
Matthew has impressed us with his dedication to improving Action Ambulance Service in every way. Matthew is personable, easy-going, and his strong medic skills make him a go-to resource for fellow employees. Matthew has become an integral part Action’s leadership team, and is always willing to help out across the organization.
Matthew is committed to our industry, and his future plans include attaining the FP-C credential and advancing to the role of Flight or Critical Care Paramedic. Matthew also looks forward to continuing to teach and mentor new EMTs and Paramedics.
In his free time, Matthew enjoys spending time with his family, which includes two children, ages four and two.
Robert Mazzo began his career as an EMT at the age of 18, in the state of Florida. Throughout his career in Florida, Robert received numerous accolades, specifically for his work during Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne. In March of 2013, Robert took his knowledge and dedication to the New York City 911 system, where he began working for Staten Island University Hospital Northwell Health. In 2016 Robert received the Staten Island Borough Presidents Award for EMT of the Year.
Robert was nominated as a Star of Life by his peers. Robert was selected because of the leadership he brings to difficult situations, and for his commitment to showing kindness and respect to everyone he encounters.
Bob Johnson first joined Medix Ambulance in 1982 as a Medical Explorer Scout. Bob completed his Paramedic training at the Advanced Paramedic Training Program at OHSU in 1987 and interned with Medstar Ambulance Authority in Fort Worth, Texas. In 2016, Bob returned to Medix Ambulance as a Paramedic and Operations Supervisor.
Bob worked for Medix for two years as a full-time Paramedic and earned his wings as a flight medic during that time. Bob continued as a part-time paramedic for 12 years after he became a firefighter with the City of Astoria in 1990.
Bob completed a 26 ½ year firefighting career with the Astoria Fire Department where he became a lieutenant in 1997. Bob has a firefighting degree from Portland Community College and was on the regional hazmat team for 10 years. Over the years Bob taught EMT Intermediate classes at Clatsop College and was a trainer and early advocate of defibrillation using AEDs. In the early 1990s Bob was instrumental in obtaining grant funding to equip all of the first responder agencies in Clatsop County with monitor screen equipped AEDs.
Bob is a leader and a role model for fellow EMS professionals. Bob mentors others and sets a great example for new staff. Medix Ambulance is proud to nominate Bob as a 2017 Star of Life.
William “Bill” Ingle is a talented professional who works as the Critical Care Paramedic in the Stanford division of North East Mobile Health Services, where he transports some of our sickest patients.
Bill is calm, knowledgeable, and has a deep mastery of clinical assessment skills. Bill excels at transports that involve balancing critical care interventions, monitoring multiple IV drips, and an array of monitoring devices. Despite this, Bill never loses sight of the patient. Bill explains the steps and interventions to patients allowing them to feel confident in the care he renders. Bill also guides his partners in their role alongside him, and rises to the challenges that come along with transporting some of the sickest patients in Maine.
With many years of experience and a willingness to share his knowledge, Bill is a highly sought after partner. According to Bill, “I just love coming to work, I really love my job!”
Staff at hospitals describe Bill as “a relief to see walk in the door,” and as “the Paramedic I want taking care of a family member.”
