When Category 5 Hurricane Ian hit the Atlantic Coast, Danny Workman was one of the first to volunteer for deployment as part of a four-person neonatal team. Previously deployed three times, Danny knew what a valuable service this team would provide.
The neonatal teams’ mission was to provide rotor-wing EMS to newborns in the area impacted by the hurricane. Danny and his team helped lead the transport of many neonates who would otherwise have had limited options during this national disaster.
As one of the first helicopters to land at the area children’s hospital, the teams set off a chain of evacuation flights that would last nearly two days.
For the next 48 hours, the neonatal team worked tirelessly to help safely transport patients from impacted communities to NICUs throughout the state.
A critical thinker who knows how to act fast, Riley Wolfe’s intuition and EMS skills saved multiple lives while on a late-night shift when he and his crew came upon a traffic collision on the freeway.
The crash involved a driver who was trapped and unconscious in a car that was on fire and rapidly spreading. Riley, his student, and his partner quickly made entry to the vehicle. Fortunately, the crew and patient were able to escape harm as the car exploded. The crew then triaged the other passengers in the vehicles and simultaneously treated their patient, who they rapidly moved away from the blaze and into the back of the ambulance.
Riley remained calm and directed the additional resources to the other vehicles involved and told them the best place to stage to ensure everyone’s safety. Once additional AMR resources arrived, Riley and his team transported their patient to the local trauma center before any other public safety resources arrived on scene. Thanks to Riley’s dedication and skill, the patient ultimately survived.
Brad Sparks’ commitment to safety is credited for averting a possibly unfavorable situation.
During what was supposed to be a routine flight returning to base, Brad alerted the pilot that he was well below the established minimums for the instrument approach, which resulted in the pilot performing a go-around procedure and climbing out of the clouds. After the pilot initiated the procedure, he successfully landed the aircraft at a nearby airport.
As the base safety representative, Brad was able to quickly identify the issue, make a recommendation and save the crew from a potentially bad outcome.
Hiram Sanchez demonstrated extraordinary courage and skill during a routine call that turned out to be anything but, on a night in mid-December 2022.
While en route during a patient transfer, Hiram came upon a traffic collision involving three cars; no other emergency vehicles were on scene. Hiram quickly identified four patients, one who was unconscious and gasping for breath. Hiram then immediately grabbed the airway equipment bag and returned to provide patient ventilation.
San Mateo County communications were alerted, and additional resources were requested. Approximately two minutes later, Hiram returned to the ambulance to obtain the fire extinguisher because one of the victims was trapped in a car while the car adjacent was on fire. Hiram then positioned himself on the passenger side of the vehicle, closest to the fire, and used his body as a shield to protect the patient and a citizen who offered to help. The patient was quickly pulled from the car and away from danger.
Hiram’s management of this scene ensured the safety of the victims and bystanders and directly resulted in the patient being freed from the vehicle, likely saving their life. Hiram has also been nominated for a California EMSA EMS Medal of Valor for his heroic actions during this response.
Stephanie Nocita is admired and respected by her co-workers and the leadership team alike for her ability to quickly assess a medical condition and for her skills that enable her to provide the needed intervention in critical situations. These characteristics were clearly on display in two recent circumstances: one involving a newborn and the other an individual in a busy shopping area.
Stephanie and her partner resuscitated a 17-day baby with a congenital heart defect who had gone into cardiac arrest. The newborn underwent heart surgery and made a full recovery.
Then, in early September 2022, she successfully helped resuscitate a person who collapsed at a crowded shopping plaza in Carmel. In that situation, a bystander and two police officers began CPR until Stephanie and her partner arrived and took over the care until more help arrived.
On the way to the hospital, the patient regained a pulse and was eventually discharged after making a full recovery. The patient later came back to visit Stephanie and the others who had helped them survive their medical ordeal.
Fidencio Hernandez enjoys building relationships between AMR and his community by organizing local, healthcare-oriented workshops and events.
Throughout his EMS career, Fidencio has demonstrated a dedication to public health efforts through his outreach and engagement efforts. He has collaborated with the local Latino community by providing educational seminars including Stop the Bleed as well as events about public access to and use of the nasal spray Narcan. His efforts have led to the enhancement of local participation in the learning of critical lifesaving skills.
Fidencio has also brought important community health information to members of both English- and Spanish-speaking communities. He has accomplished this by providing bilingual education to ensure the greatest number of community members can benefit.
Additionally, in his role as Field Training Officer, his years of experience and endless positivity provide an excellent learning environment for new hires. He is called upon to impart his knowledge often to offset staffing shortages, preparing new EMTs for their vitally important role in the community.
Victoria England is proud to specialize in providing care to neonatal and pediatric patients. Her love for her job is what led her to volunteer to lead the effort to help the youngest of patients receive the best care possible during Hurricane Ian.
Described by her leaders as an “integral source of knowledge and experience for all clinicians in the Northern California bases,” Victoria strives for excellence in her career, never shying away from a challenge. While she has focused her attention on serving neonatal and pediatric patients, she decided to increase her span of care when she moved from REACH 3 in Concord to REACH 17 in Mather. Here, she now cares for patients of all ages and levels of acuity.
Victoria always maintains a positive attitude and continuously demonstrates a passion for helping her organization in any capacity necessary.
Luke Stengler has been an EMT for one year. He began his service in a quaint town in Virginia, before transferring to San Diego in February 2023. Throughout his tenure, Luke has consistently showcased his exemplary skills as an EMT. Yet, it was on April 1st, 2023, that his dedication and bravery truly shone through.
On this fateful day, the assigned crew on BLS5 comprised of EMT-B Kristine Kokkinos and EMT-B Luke Stengler. While en route to another assignment, they unexpectedly stumbled upon an accident. Swiftly surveying the situation, they halted to provide assistance. In their rapid response, both EMTs ensured scene safety by positioning their ambulance as a protective buffer against incoming traffic, thereby ensuring a safer environment for all present. The duo then proceeded to assess everyone involved, simultaneously relocating vehicles to the shoulder, clearing the main traffic lanes.
Their most poignant moment arose when they encountered a distressed individual, who had crashed his vehicle into the guardrail of an overpass bridge in a tragic attempt to end his own life. As the BLS5 crew approached to offer aid, this individual abruptly ran towards the bridge railing with the intent of leaping. CHP reports and witness testimonies confirm that as the man jumped, both EMT Kokkinos and Stengler, showcasing immense courage and disregarding their own safety, grasped him mid-air. They nearly plummeted off the side of the bridge, which towers 60-70 feet above a bustling freeway. Their unwavering grip and determination ensured that they did not let this individual fall to an untimely demise. Both EMTs displayed a heroic act, risking their lives for someone they had never met, who had made a grievous choice.
Originally from San Diego, Luke is currently advancing his education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree through the University of Arizona online. Off duty, he passionately participates in a hockey league alongside his high school teammates and hones his skills in jiu-jitsu.
The Falck team extends heartfelt gratitude to Luke Stengler for his unwavering commitment to both the organization and the communities we serve. His courage and dedication are truly inspiring.
Paramedic Michael Oseguera was chosen as Falck Northern California’s Star of Life due to his unwavering commitment to aiding those in distress.
While off-duty, shortly after completing his shift, Michael showcased remarkable courage and selflessness. He approached a young woman who was contemplating suicide on an overpass above a freeway. Without a second thought, he offered not only a listening ear and comforting words but also a reassuring embrace that proved crucial in that moment. His prompt response and genuine empathy averted a potential tragedy, safeguarding a precious life.
Michael’s dedication to the community transcends standard Paramedic responsibilities. His actions on that pivotal day truly embody the spirit of a hero, and showcase the genuine heart of a first responder.
EMT Kristine Kokkinos has dedicated her EMS skills and expertise to the residents of San Diego County for the last two years. In this relatively short span, she has impacted the lives of hundreds.
On April 1, 2023, her commitment to the role was dramatically put into practice. While en route to another assignment, Kristine and her partner, EMT Luke Stengler, chanced upon a serious accident scene. Without hesitation, they took command of the situation and positioned their ambulance as a protective barrier from ongoing traffic, making the scene safer for everyone involved.
Their rapid assessment led them to prioritize the victims and clear the traffic lanes. However, one individual, reportedly intoxicated and vocal about his intent to end his life, dramatically accelerated his vehicle and crashed into the guardrail of an overpass. As the crew approached him, the man leapt up and dashed for the bridge’s edge. Witnesses and the California Highway Patrol recounted that as he vaulted over the side, shouting his suicidal intent, both Kristine and Luke, without a second thought for their own safety, reached out and caught him in midair. Teetering on the edge, with a 60-70 ft. drop onto active freeway lanes below, the two EMTs held firm. In doing so, they undoubtedly saved his life.
On a personal note, Kristine has called North County, San Diego home since 2018. She completed her EMT certification at Palomar College and has plans to further her education by pursuing her Paramedic License. Away from the high-intensity world of emergency response, Kristine finds solace at the beach, cherishes moments with her family, and scales heights while rock climbing with friends.
San Diego celebrates and deeply appreciates Kristine Kokkinos for her unwavering commitment and selfless service.
Victor Hoffer has been a steadfast presence in the EMS community since 1980, serving with Falck Northwest Ambulance in Salem, Oregon. With over 40 years of experience as a Nationally Registered Paramedic, he has consistently demonstrated proficiency and dedication. In addition to his EMS duties, Victor contributes to road safety as the Chair of the Oregon Transportation Safety Committee, a gubernatorial appointment. He also volunteers as a Captain Paramedic-Firefighter with Mt. Angel Fire.
A recent event underscored Victor’s capability and resilience. Alongside his partner, Carol, they responded to a harrowing call involving a 9-year-old girl found unconscious and pulseless in a bathtub. Carol commenced CPR compressions while Victor swiftly established an advanced airway. The persistent PEA was a challenge they faced for over 45 minutes, administering advanced cardiac care with unwavering focus. By the time they reached Salem Hospital Emergency Department, the girl’s temperature was a concerning 75 degrees Fahrenheit. However, through a combination of their initial interventions and the hospital’s subsequent treatments, including rewarming and the application of Extra Corporal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), the young patient began her path to recovery.
This incident illustrates the importance of experience, team collaboration, and decisive action in EMS. Both Victor and Carol played integral roles as links in the chain of survival.
Falck is honored to recognize Victor Hoffer as a 2023 Star of Life.
Rebecca “Becca” Ellis, a dedicated EMT at Falck Mobile Health, exhibited extraordinary valor and expertise during a critical incident at a jiu-jitsu studio. Upon being dispatched to a Code 3 for a cardiac arrest and realizing they were mere moments away, Becca and her partner Austin arrived on scene in less than a minute. Racing to the second floor, Becca found the patient suspended upside-down, with alarmed peers shouting about his lack of breath. Swiftly assessing the situation, she had the patient set down and confirmed he was pulseless and not breathing. Without hesitation, Becca initiated life-saving chest compressions while Austin prepared the AED and BVM. Their rapid actions and precise protocols, which included a successful shock delivery after initially receiving a “no shock advised” signal from the AED, led to the patient regaining consciousness and breathing autonomously.
By the time they arrived at the hospital, the patient was not only stable but engaged in heartfelt conversations, expressing deep gratitude for Becca and Austin’s outstanding efforts. Their quick thinking and resolute actions had transformed a potentially tragic situation into a story of hope and recovery.
At just 19 years old and with only seven months of experience as an EMT, Becca’s passion for her profession is evident. Outside of her life-saving role, she is a fervent advocate for mental and physical health, a talented artist, and an outdoor enthusiast. Furthermore, she is dedicated to her education, always eager to expand her knowledge in EMS. With aspirations of potentially joining the fire service and a clear devotion to her loved ones, Becca’s off-shift moments are spent cherishing her family, friends, and relaxation.
The Star of Life award is a testament to Becca Ellis’s remarkable skills, determination, and the bright future that surely lies ahead for her in EMS.
Born and raised in Vacaville, CA, Michael Robinson now proudly calls Dixon, CA home, where he lives with his loving wife, two wonderful daughters, and two loyal dogs.
Michael’s journey with Medic Ambulance Service began in 2012, when he took on the role of Wheelchair/Gurney Van Technician. Demonstrating dedication and skill, Michael’s progression within the company was swift; he progressed to an EMT role shortly after and achieved the rank of Paramedic by 2017.
Outside the demanding realm of emergency medical services, Michael cherishes quality time with his family. He is passionate about outdoor adventures, including camping and fishing, and has a spirited enthusiasm for playing hockey.
Throughout his tenure at Medic Ambulance, Michael’s exceptional capabilities have seen him deployed on numerous strike teams as a pivotal member of the Emergency Response Team. Moreover, in his role as a Field Training Officer, Michael has played a crucial role in shaping the future of emergency services in Solano County. He has mentored and trained a plethora of new EMTs and guided budding Paramedics during their rigorous field internships as a Preceptor. In addition to these significant responsibilities, Michael also serves as a shop steward for the union.
Michael takes immense pride in serving the residents of his hometown in Solano County. It is with immense gratitude and admiration that we honor him as Medic Ambulance’s Solano Division Paramedic of the Year and bestow upon him the prestigious Star of Life award. Congratulations, Michael!
Chalyssa David’s journey from the sunny shores of San Diego to the bustling streets of Sacramento is one filled with resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to service. Born in San Diego and raised alongside her two sisters by their loving grandparents in Santa Rosa, Chalyssa’s early life was marked by dreams of diverse career paths—ranging from oceanography to child development, and even aspirations of becoming a firefighter.
Though she was part of a pre-college program during her high school years, Chalyssa chose a different path after graduation. Her life took a significant turn at 19 when she learned of her pregnancy, prompting her to relocate to Yuba City. As a mother of two by 2012, she recognized the need for a stable career to support her growing family. Initially drawn to EMT training with aspirations of becoming a firefighter, Chalyssa discovered her true calling on the ambulance. The world of emergency medical services captivated her heart and mind.
Despite her many responsibilities—volunteering at a fire department, clocking in over 50 hours weekly on the ambulance, attending paramedic school, and raising her two children—Chalyssa’s determination never wavered. Today, with almost seven years as a Paramedic under her belt, six of which have been with Medic Ambulance, her dedication to the field continues to grow. In 2018, Chalyssa’s excellence was recognized with a promotion to Paramedic Supervisor. Her recent transfer from our Solano Operations to our Sacramento Division further exemplifies her adaptability and commitment. She views her EMS journey as not only rewarding for herself but as an inspiring example for her now five children in her blended family.
Yet, it’s not just her personal journey that makes Chalyssa stand out. On what appeared to be a routine interfacility transport, Chalyssa faced an unexpected and high-stakes situation. Tasked with caring for a 34-week pregnant female patient, she found herself in the midst of an unplanned delivery in the back of the ambulance. Faced with a baby entangled in its umbilical cord and in distress, Chalyssa’s swift and expert actions ensured the safe delivery and immediate resuscitation of the newborn. Today, both mother and baby are thriving, thanks to Chalyssa’s impeccable skills and presence of mind.
It is acts like these, combined with her dedication and remarkable journey, that make Chalyssa David not just a star in our eyes but a beacon of hope and inspiration. For her relentless dedication, unparalleled skill, and unwavering commitment to those in need, Medic Ambulance is proud to honor Chalyssa David with the Stars of Life award.
EMT Austin Baffa is being honored as a Star of Life for saving a patient in cardiac arrest.
He recounts, “My partner and I were dispatched to a Code 3 unconscious patient at a Brazilian jiu-jitsu gym in Irvine, California. We were down the street and were upgraded to a full arrest and were notified by fire that they would be delayed. Prior to the call, we were practicing a ‘first on-scene’ full-arrest scenario and the call dropped as we finished our practice scenario. Upon arrival, we were flagged down by bystanders. My partner ran upstairs to begin her assessment while I grabbed the trauma and AED bag. Upon patient contact, we determined that they were pulseless, apneic with cyanosis and death rattles. My partner began CPR while I set up the AED. After a few minutes of high-quality CPR, we were able to get a shockable rhythm on the patient, ultimately achieving ROSC. The patient then began to throw up, at which point we cleared their airway and stabilized them. It was at this point that the fire department arrived to assist. By the time we loaded up the patient, they were fully oriented and in good spirits. It was later discovered that the patient sustained no brain damage and is making a full recovery.”
As luck would have it, before working as partners on the ambulance, Austin and his partner and fellow Star of Life, Becca, went to school together. During training, they spent time practicing just such skills and scenarios prior to their time working together at FALCK.
Austin spends his free time surfing, hiking, and going to the gym. He is active in his community and prioritizes his mental, physical, and emotional health. He is currently working toward a career as a Firefighter/Paramedic.
Erica Blockman is the clinical Coordinator and Paramedic for Del Norte Ambulance. Prior to joining Del Norte Ambulance, Erica served as a certified Flight Paramedic, a ground transport Paramedic, and engineer firefighter. She received her Fire Science degree in 2007 and her Associate of Science Degree in Prehospital Emergency Medicine in 2013.
Erica has gone above and beyond the call of duty time and time again. Her efforts significantly impact our company and our community through her commitment to providing quality mobile healthcare.
In addition to her commitment to EMS, Erica also strives for physical well-being. She is a former IFBB Physique bodybuilder and a physical trainer. In her free time, Erica enjoys relaxing with her dogs and paddle boarding on our local river.
Del Norte is proud to honor Erica as a 2023 Star of Life.
Bryan McKeon is being honored as a Star of Life for his actions while off duty that resulted in saving a cardiac arrest victim’s life. He was at his local gym when a patient in their 70s collapsed. It was a lucky day for that patient as Bryan and an off-duty San Jose Fire Department medic were close at hand. Together, they began CPR and delivered a shock from an on-site AED. By the time first responders arrived the patient had a strong pulse and was regaining consciousness. Bryan stayed with the patient and continued to assist until transport. The patient was discharged two days later. This singular save is indicative of Bryan’s commitment and professionalism that have also served him as he has dealt with crises such as the death of a co-worker, the local paramedic shortage, and the rising opioid epidemic.
Bryan began his tenure with AMR in 2015. He continues to challenge himself, becoming an Alternate Supervisor, Field Training Officer, and Preceptor to paramedic candidates. He is active in the community assisting with CPR and Stop the Bleed training programs and with the EMT program at the local college.
Clifford (Cliff) Jacks is being honored as a Star of Life for his determined actions in saving a 12-year-old who had collapsed during P.E. class at a local school. Cliff and his partner responded to the call and found the child unresponsive. Thinking quickly, he was able to convert the refractory V-Fib, achieving return of spontaneous circulation after three defibrillations. Cliff made the decision to immediately transport the patient to the nearest emergency department to stabilize. But he knew he would need to be on hand to then take the patient and the critical care team to the local Children’s Hospital. This forward-thinking ensured that the patient got the correct level of care and contributed to the patient having a positive outcome. Cliff’s commitment to always providing the highest quality of care to his patients was truly on display that day.
Cliff has been in EMS for 20 years and has been a medic for almost 15. He has continued his education, earning a BS in Molecular Biology and serving as a Field Training Officer and a Paramedic Preceptor. He is widely respected as a leader and as someone who will go out of their way to help coworkers.
Mathew Cox is being honored as a Star of Life for his off-duty actions that saved a boy from drowning. In January last year, Mathew was enjoying a vacation in Hawaii. While relaxing on the beach, he noticed a young boy splashing in shallow water near rocks. In what seemed mere minutes, the strength of the waves increased significantly, crashing violently on the sandy shore. Mathew looked for the boy and noticed he was being pushed by the waves into the sharp rocks. A moment later, the boy was pulled under by the strong current below. Mathew ran into the water. He caught a brief glimpse of the boy and dove in. Fighting the current himself, he reached the boy and pulled him back to the shore and his waiting parents. Mathew’s coworkers would not be surprised by his actions that day. They know he lives by the belief that you should leave a person or a place a little better than you found it.
Mathew began his career with AMR as an EMT in 2014 at a mere 18 years old. He quickly enrolled in paramedic school and earned that title. He continues to embrace educational opportunities, seeking out senior paramedics for tips and feedback. He strives for the best care for each patient he encounters.
Robert Sebree has saved many lives in the twenty-five years he has been with AMR, though one recent incident, in particular, stands out.
On August 24, 2021, when Robert was working a shift in Simi Valley, a call was made about a four-year-old boy who was having trouble breathing. Upon Robert’s arrival, Simi Valley police were already on-scene trying to help the developmentally disabled child with a cleft palate who appeared to be choking. Robert intervened and visualized the child’s airway with a direct laryngoscopy, which revealed an anterior airway with an oblong-shaped object with one rounded, smooth closed end and one rounded open end. The diameter was approximately the size of a penny, and the smooth side was found facing downwards in the hypopharynx. Robert used Magill forceps to remove the object with the result of an immediate improvement in the patient’s mental awareness.
The child was transported to Adventist Health in Simi Valley and made a complete recovery. Robert was hailed a hero by his colleagues and was called the medic, “who saved this kid’s life!”
