Ryan Rizen is being honored for his extraordinary bravery and lifesaving actions following a devastating motorcycle crash. Just off duty and heading home, Ryan witnessed a horrific collision in which a motorcyclist was thrown hundreds of feet from the wreckage after striking a truck.

The victim was critically injured and in cardiac arrest. With only trauma shears and borrowed gloves, Ryan rushed to the patient’s side and immediately began emergency care. Joined by a local trauma surgeon, police officer, and fire crews, he initiated CPR and assisted in securing the airway. Against all odds, they achieved return of spontaneous circulation just moments before transport.

Thanks to Ryan’s swift response and seamless teamwork with first responders, the patient—who sustained extensive facial and head trauma—survived. Now in rehabilitation, the patient is expected to make a full recovery.

Ryan’s courage, quick thinking, and selfless commitment to saving a life exemplify the highest standards of the EMS profession.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Ryan Rizen as a Star of Life!

Samantha Sabol is being commended for her exceptional lifesaving actions during a serious and complex tractor-trailer accident that left a patient trapped beneath part of a 340,000-pound cargo load. The incident occurred when an 18-wheeler carrying the heavy shipment overturned on a Texas state highway, pinning a passenger from another vehicle under the fallen freight.

Working under the direction of Acting Supervisor Paramedic Rick Pringle, and alongside EMT Talitha Tanous, the Temple Fire Department, and Temple Police, Samantha played a critical role in the hours-long extrication effort. The operation demanded unwavering focus, advanced clinical expertise, and emotional resilience—skills Samantha delivered with extraordinary precision and care.

Thanks to her intervention and determination, the patient was successfully freed, stabilized, and safely transported for advanced medical treatment. Samantha’s courage, skill, and unshakable commitment to saving lives exemplify the very best of the EMS profession.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Samantha Sabol as a Star of Life!

River Medical is proud to recognize Communications Lead Rudy Drago as a Star of Life for his extraordinary skill in gathering and relaying critical information during high-stakes emergencies.

Rudy’s expertise and instinct were put to the test when a Spanish-speaking caller dialed 911 to report that a construction worker had been impaled by a rebar. Though Rudy is not fluent in Spanish, he relied on his knowledge of EMS protocols, his limited Spanish, and his determination to communicate across the language barrier. He was able to quickly extract the vital details needed to shape the emergency response.

As he provided lifesaving guidance over the phone, Rudy also orchestrated a multi-agency rescue effort that required precision and collaboration. Because of his persistence and refusal to let a language barrier become a barrier to care, the injured worker received timely and appropriate treatment. The patient ultimately survived thanks to Rudy’s decisive actions and calm leadership under pressure.

Rudy’s colleagues describe him as a steady, detail-oriented professional whose commitment to service inspires confidence in both responders and community members. His dedication exemplifies the very best of emergency communications—turning chaos into clarity when every second matters.

River Medical is honored to celebrate Rudy Drago as a Star of Life.

Missy Satterfield is being recognized for her swift and expert response during a critical emergency involving an elderly car crash victim. While responding to a rural Texas motor vehicle accident alongside Flight Paramedic Marc Flores, Missy immediately recognized that the patient’s distress went beyond the shock of the collision. Drawing on her clinical expertise, she identified signs of impaired breathing caused by chest trauma and multiple rib fractures.

Moments later, the patient went into cardiac arrest. Thanks to Missy and Marc’s rapid intervention and advanced lifesaving techniques, they were able to restore the patient’s heartbeat and stabilize them for transport. Their training, quick thinking, and unwavering focus on patient care made all the difference.

The patient not only survived but was discharged from the hospital just two weeks later—a remarkable recovery made possible by Missy’s dedication and skill in the field.

For this, any much more, Air Evac Lifeteam is proud to recognize Missy Satterfield as a Star of Life!

EagleMed is proud to recognize Flight Nurse and Paramedic Nathanael Day as a Star of Life for his groundbreaking work and unwavering dedication to patients across rural Kansas.

Nathanael played a pivotal role in the creation of EagleMed’s in-flight blood program, a lifesaving initiative that now provides critically ill and injured patients in remote areas with a vital “fighting chance” even before reaching a hospital. This innovative program, built in collaboration with the American Red Cross, was far from simple to launch. From complex logistical challenges to strict regulatory requirements, the obstacles were many. Yet, through Nathanael’s determination, leadership, and vision, the effort succeeded—and today the program is saving lives throughout the region.

Nathanael’s dedication to his patients extends far beyond the helicopter. A regular blood donor himself, he has also taken the lead in organizing local blood drives, helping to strengthen his community’s emergency preparedness and overall well-being. His tireless efforts embody the true spirit of EMS—always seeking new ways to serve, protect, and give back.

EagleMed is honored to celebrate Nathanael Day as a Star of Life for his leadership, compassion, and relentless pursuit of excellence in patient care.

Morgan Stanley is being honored for exemplifying extraordinary compassion and commitment to her community—far beyond the traditional scope of emergency medical services. When a devastating apartment fire displaced dozens of families, Morgan immediately stepped in to help. She organized and led a large-scale donation drive that rallied support across the region.

Through her leadership and determination, essential items—including clothing, toys, and household goods—were collected and delivered, ultimately filling more than five ambulances with supplies for those in need. This act of generosity brought comfort and hope to countless individuals during one of the most difficult times of their lives.

Morgan’s selflessness in the face of crisis is just one example of how she embodies the very best of the EMS profession. Her compassion, initiative, and unwavering dedication to others inspire her colleagues and community alike.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Morgan Stanley as a Star of Life!

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Emergency Medical Technician Talitha Crowe as a Star of Life.

Talitha is being honored for her exceptional performance during the response to a harrowing tractor-trailer crash on a Texas highway. The incident involved an 18-wheeler carrying a 340,000-pound load that overturned, with a portion of the cargo crushing another vehicle and critically injuring its occupant.

Guided by on-site acting supervisor Paramedic Rick Pringle and working alongside Paramedic Samantha Sabol, Temple Fire Department, and Temple Police personnel, Talitha played a pivotal role in a complex, multi-hour rescue operation. The mission demanded sharp clinical judgment, steadfast concentration, and emotional strength—qualities Talitha demonstrated with precision and compassion.

Because of her advanced medical proficiency and quick thinking, the trapped patient was successfully extricated, stabilized, and safely transported for further care. Talitha’s calm under pressure and dedication to preserving life reflect the very best of the EMS profession.

Her bravery, skill, and compassion embody the values of American Medical Response, and it is with great pride that AMR celebrates Talitha Crowe as a Star of Life.

Chris Crawford is being recognized as a Star of Life for his exceptional clinical expertise and his ability to connect with patients on a human level.

In one extraordinary case, Chris’s keen diagnostic skills identified a rare, life-threatening aortic dissection in a patient whose vital signs initially appeared normal. Aortic dissections are notoriously difficult to detect, but Chris’s vigilance and clinical judgment prompted immediate changes to the care plan, ultimately saving the patient’s life.

Chris’s dedication extends beyond technical proficiency. On another call, he demonstrated his remarkable compassion when caring for a young patient with autism. By patiently engaging with the child in a calm, reassuring manner, Chris eased their anxiety, creating a safe environment where their medical needs could be addressed effectively.

Through moments like these, Chris has earned the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of the community he serves. American Medical Response is proud to honor Chris Crawford as a Star of Life.

Fear doesn’t stop Dustin Wilson—it fuels his resolve. On one extraordinary call, Dustin responded to an emergency involving an unresponsive individual found hanging from a bridge, entangled in a rope. The patient appeared to have been attempting to rappel down to recover belongings that had fallen into the water below.

With no fire personnel or rescue equipment yet on scene, Dustin took charge. Secured only by his partner and local officers, he climbed over the guardrail to reach the patient. His decisive actions allowed the team to pull the individual back to safety, where CPR was initiated. Thanks to Dustin’s leadership and quick response, the patient regained a pulse before being transported for further care.

Dustin’s courage under pressure and unwavering commitment to saving lives embody the very best of EMS.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Dustin Wilson as a Star of Life!

Brannen Zilka is being honored for his quick actions that saved the life of a spectator at a local sporting event—all while off duty. Last fall, while attending a football game with his family, Brannen saw a person collapse in sudden cardiac arrest. Without hesitation, he immediately began CPR and quickly retrieved an AED to deliver a lifesaving shock. Thanks to his rapid response and clinical expertise, the patient survived and was able to leave the hospital with no disabilities.

In addition to his frontline skill, Brannen is admired by his colleagues for his servant-leadership and commitment to his team. He dedicates personal time to serve with the Special Operations Unit, contributes to the System Status Committee, and teaches American Heart Association courses. He is also a trusted mentor in new hire academies, helping to prepare the next generation of EMS professionals.

Brannen’s service extends far beyond his daily duties. Over the years, he has deployed many times, not only as a crew member but also as an Ambulance Strike Team leader, stepping forward whenever his community or state calls.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Brannen Zilka as a Star of Life!

Carlos Bautista is being honored for his dedication and outstanding leadership, which have paved the way for a remarkable career in the air medical industry—an achievement few ever reach. A recognized expert in aviation, Carlos has accumulated more than 9,600 flight hours. Beyond his technical expertise, he serves as a trusted advisor and mentor to emerging talent. He is widely revered for his calm demeanor in challenging situations, his exceptional safety record, and his relentless pursuit of operational excellence—qualities that earned him EagleMed’s Employee of the Year award.

His colleagues describe him not only as a respected friend but also as a mission-driven leader who has played an innovative role in shaping EagleMed’s culture of safety and service. His guidance and example have left a lasting impact on both his teammates and the patients who benefit from his commitment to safe, effective care.

EagleMed is proud to recognize Carlos Bautista as a Star of Life.

Nicole “Nikki” Warren is being recognized for her clinical skills and quick action that saved the lives of patients on two separate occasions.

The first, a motor vehicle crash where the patient was at first believed to be deceased, required rapid attention after a longer-than-expected extraction from the wreckage. En route to the hospital, the patient received blood products and post-intubation care as Nikki used all her clinical knowledge to keep the patient alive during the flight. Because of her extraordinary abilities, that individual survived and was eventually discharged.

In the second incident, a patient with a crossbow arrow in the leg required three units of blood, one unit of plasma, and multiple doses of epinephrine. Despite these ministrations, the patient went into cardiac arrest and compressions were started. Due to the extraordinary level of care exhibited during this patient’s flight, the patient managed to make a full recovery.

In both of these patient interventions, Nikki played an irreplaceable role in the survival of these individuals.

Lucie Walters is a brilliant first responder who has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovative thinking, and an outstanding work ethic, earning the admiration of her leaders and peers at AirMed. Lucie has been the recipient of multiple awards, including the company’s Quarterly Safety Award and the Outstanding Employee of the Quarter Award.

Beyond her accolades, Lucie is being honored for her extraordinary composure and heroic actions after witnessing a shooting in a hotel parking lot while covering at the AEL base in Birmingham, Alabama. She provided critical aid to the victim by applying pressure to his wounds until emergency medical services arrived, ultimately helping to save the victim’s life. Lucie is a hero both on and off the clock, embodying the best qualities of a first responder.

Andrew Varela is being honored as a Star of Life for his exceptional dedication to the EMS industry and his exemplary performance in two critical emergency responses in 2023. In one instance, Andrew responded to a young boy who suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while riding his scooter. Andrew and his partner took over CPR, administered advanced life support, including defibrillation, and helped restore the boy’s pulse before his full recovery and discharge from the hospital. In another incident, Andrew and his trainee successfully revived a female patient in cardiac arrest at an urgent care clinic by performing CPR and using an EKG monitor to restore her pulse.

As a respected Field Training Officer, Andrew not only demonstrates clinical excellence but also leads and mentors new EMTs and paramedics, making him a well-deserving recipient of the 2024 Star of Life award.

Shane Terry, a nearly 20-year veteran with Air Evac Lifeteam, is an expert in emergency medical care, known for his ability to quickly assess and intervene in critical situations. His expertise has been particularly noted in two significant incidents: one involving a former AEL team member and the other, a child.

In the first instance, Shane was in an ER when a former team member experienced cardiac arrest. His quick thinking and skillful intervention, alongside ER staff, saved the individual’s life.

In another case, Shane responded to a call for a child in cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, he immediately recognized that the child’s airway tube was incorrectly placed. Shane reintubated the child and, recognizing the weather conditions were unsafe for flight, accompanied the ground unit to ensure the child received continuous care en route to the hospital.

Shane’s dedication to patient care and his ability to act swiftly in critical moments make him a standout in the field. His nearly two decades of service with Air Evac Lifeteam and his commitment to saving lives are why he is recognized as a 2024 Star of Life honoree.

Jason Southard is recognized as a champion of life for his heroic actions in saving the life of a fellow first responder. While on shift, a paramedic colleague suffered a stroke, and Jason’s quick thinking and immediate intervention not only saved her life but also preserved her ability to continue her career, be a mother, and lead a normal life post-stroke.

The paramedic describes Jason as an “amazing person who always remains calm under pressure, incredibly humble and kind, and always available to lend a hand.” His life-saving actions not only impacted his colleague’s future but also ensured that many more lives would be saved through her continued work.

Jason’s calmness under pressure and compassionate service make him a deserving recipient of the 2024 Star of Life award.

Raquel Soto is being recognized for her life-saving interaction with a suicidal patient. She and her partner, Howard Freeman, were the first to arrive on-scene for the call. An adult male was standing atop an eight-story parking structure indicating an intention to jump. Raquel made her way to the roof to establish contact with the patient and quickly established that the man was struggling with psychiatric and substance-used disorders and frustrated with failed treatment efforts, wanted to end his life. With support resources arriving at the ground level, Raquel established a rapport with the patient acknowledging that his struggle was real, and he was being heard. Over the next 20 minutes, Raquel displayed great empathy and ultimately convinced him that there were better solutions to his problems. She got him to step away from the ledge and allow EMS to transport him to the hospital, where he could receive treatment and take the first steps to mental health and recovery. This was an extraordinary, veteran-like demonstration of patient skills from an EMT with just five years on the job.

Lance Smeal, a 30-year veteran in EMS, is being recognized for his exceptional patient care and compassionate people skills. As a Field Training Officer and Advanced Emergency Medical Technician with American Medical Response in Buffalo, New York, Lance recently responded to a 911 call involving a toddler with breathing difficulties. While delivering expert care to the patient, Lance also took the time to calm and reassure the toddler’s older brother.

A lifelong Buffalo Bills fan, Lance connected with the sibling by talking about their shared love for the team, easing the tension of the situation. Before leaving with the patient, Lance gave the boy his Buffalo Bills watch as a gift, which left a lasting impression. After the toddler’s recovery, the family reached out to thank Lance in person. In true fashion, Lance surprised them with a Buffalo Bills Von Miller jersey, further demonstrating his kindness. The family was so moved that they shared their experience on social media, praising Lance and AMR.

Lance’s dedication to both his patients and their families reflects his compassionate approach to EMS, making him a proud recipient of the 2024 Star of Life award.

With more than 15 years of dedicated service as an EMS first responder, Kevin Rochford is being honored for his life-saving actions in January 2024, when he responded to a cardiac arrest involving a well-known community leader. Kevin’s quick and decisive intervention, which included administering multiple medications and performing defibrillations, led to the patient achieving ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation) after more than 30 minutes of effort. Thanks to Kevin’s expertise and persistence, the patient survived and has since returned to serving the community.

Known for his humility and commitment to lifelong learning, Kevin is actively pursuing courses to further his career in the medical field. His dedication to both his patients and his personal growth makes him a valued member of American Medical Response and a true asset to the Waco community.

Michael Penna is being honored as a Star of Life for his extraordinary dedication and bravery in providing essential medical care in war-torn Ukraine. In early 2023, Mike embarked on a life-changing mission, volunteering with the aid organization Front Line Medics to deliver emergency medical services to rural villages in the Donetsk region. These villages were deeply impacted by the ongoing conflict with Russia, and Mike’s decision to volunteer exemplifies his commitment to the mission of Global Medical Response: to provide care to the world at a moment’s notice.

Upon arriving in the liberated villages of Eastern Ukraine, Mike was faced with the harsh realities of limited resources, damaged infrastructure, and constant air raid alerts. Despite these extreme challenges, he remained undeterred, adapting to the austere environment and improvising solutions to ensure that critical medical care reached those in desperate need.

Driven by a profound sense of duty and compassion, Mike willingly put himself in harm’s way to provide care in one of the most dangerous environments imaginable. His perseverance and commitment to delivering vital healthcare in the face of overwhelming adversity exemplify the highest standards of the EMS profession.

Michael Penna’s selfless actions and unwavering dedication to helping others in times of crisis make him a deserving honoree for the American Medical Response Stars of Life award.