Megan Overbeck is being recognized for her outstanding clinical excellence, diligence, and dedication to the EMS profession. In 2023, Megan responded to an impressive 1,993 calls and transported 1,559 patients, averaging 5.5 calls per day. During this period, she performed a remarkable 3,942 procedures, which included 767 IVs, 165 12-leads, eight intubations, and two needle decompressions. Additionally, she administered critical treatments, including DuoNeb, Fentanyl, and TXA.

Megan’s dedication to patient care is reflected not just in the volume of her work but in the quality of her results. She responded to 47 cardiac arrests in 2023, transporting 27 patients and achieving ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation) in 13 cases, including six clinical saves. Her success rate in cardiac arrests—27.7% ROSC and 36.4% of all cardiac arrests her operation responded to—far exceeds national averages, demonstrating her exceptional clinical skills and ability to make a life-saving difference.

Megan’s commitment to excellence and her extraordinary outcomes make her a deserving honoree for her contributions to the EMS profession.

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

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

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

Mike Schwenke is a respected member of the EMS community in Effingham, Illinois, and has been for 14 years. He enjoys teaching almost as much as he loves being a Paramedic. Throughout his career, he has taught countless numbers of first responders, EMTs, and Paramedics. Mike excels in his teaching, and wants to make sure his coworkers can meet the same standards of excellence he holds for himself. While Mike has only been with Abbott EMS for one year, his dedication to the profession has proven invaluable to our operation.

Mike wants everyone to be knowledgeable, and is always first to answer questions from his team and others. He took the time to meet with local hospitals and train them on Abbott’s preferred airway devices, as they had not previously used the i-Gels brand. Mike also met with the local fire departments to improve communication and collaboration on emergency calls.

Paramedic Supervisor Jeff Odenthal’s EMS career spans nearly two decades. A lead Field Training Officer and prolific classroom instructor, Jeff jumps at the opportunity to teach new generations of EMTs and Paramedics. Jeff has a knack for instilling confidence in students and bringing calm to distressed patients. He is an effective and trusted leader who skillfully meets the needs of crew members under his supervision and the managers to whom he reports. Jeff’s colleagues say that he shows equal respect to everyone he encounters and treats his patients like family members.

In 2012, Jeff spent several weeks away from home, supporting the Super Storm Sandy response and recovery effort. His willingness to sacrifice for others is noticed and appreciated.