Arianne Emling is being recognized for her exceptional skill, professionalism, and perseverance while responding to a call for a critically ill cardiac patient. She and her partner, Flight Paramedic Beau McFarlin, were dispatched to care for a patient who had received an Impella device—a small heart pump—following a stent placement at a rural catheterization laboratory.

The patient was hypotensive and combative, requiring constant intervention. For three demanding hours before transport, Arianne and Beau worked tirelessly to keep the patient alive—ensuring airway integrity, responding to dangerous physiological changes, adjusting ventilator settings, and keeping vital equipment operational even as the Impella’s battery was close to failing.

By the time the aircraft lifted off and the patient was handed off to the receiving hospital, the individual was in a far more stable condition than when Arianne and Beau first arrived. Her expertise and unwavering commitment to patient care under the most challenging circumstances exemplify the very best of critical care medicine.

Air Evac Lifeteam is proud to recognize Flight Nurse and Base Clinical Lead Arianne Emling as a Star of Life!

Joseph Ketcham is being praised for his remarkable courage and quick action in the face of violence. After completing a long shift, Joseph was at home when he heard screams outside. Rushing to investigate, he saw an individual being stabbed.

While many might have fled out of fear, Joseph did the opposite. He confronted the attacker, forcing them to flee, and immediately turned his attention to the victim. Drawing on his Paramedic training, Joseph provided lifesaving care, treating multiple stab wounds and controlling severe bleeding. He remained at the victim’s side until first responders arrived and transported the patient to the hospital.

Thanks to Joseph’s fearless intervention and compassionate care, the victim survived. His actions reflect the highest standards of bravery and service, demonstrating that the call to protect and care for others never truly ends when a shift does.

MedicWest Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic Supervisor Joseph Ketcham as a Star of Life!

PJ Lowe is being recognized for her extraordinary dedication, leadership, and far-reaching impact across Central Mississippi and the EMS community.

An Advanced EMT, Field Training Officer, Honor Guard member, bike medic, and volunteer firefighter with two departments, PJ exemplifies service in every sense of the word. In addition to her demanding roles, she leads AMR Central Mississippi’s Mental Health Peer Support Group, reflecting her deep commitment to the well-being of her peers.

Her involvement in numerous EMS organizations and initiatives is a testament to her passion for the profession. PJ lives and breathes “all things EMS,” a calling that has profoundly shaped both her professional and personal life.

As a trusted mentor and educator, PJ also serves as adjunct faculty at Holmes and Hinds Community Colleges. Her hands-on teaching style, empathetic leadership, and steadfast focus on safety and excellence make her a sought-after preceptor. Students and new medics consistently request to train under her guidance, drawn to her authenticity, experience, and skill.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Advanced EMT and Field Training Officer PJ Lowe as a Star of Life!

Matt Magiera is being honored for his selfless actions and quick thinking while off duty in the aftermath of a devastating tornado. A dedicated Paramedic and avid “storm chaser,” Matt was surveying damage when he came across an injured individual. Without hesitation, he provided first aid and stabilized the patient.

Moments later, Matt identified a second, critically injured person who had been thrown more than 300 yards by the storm. With emergency resources stretched thin in the rural community, Matt collaborated with the local fire department to repurpose a fire vehicle into an emergency transport unit. He administered spinal precautions, closely monitored the patient’s condition, and ensured their safe transfer to a nearby hospital.

Matt’s ability to remain calm and resourceful under extraordinary circumstances exemplifies the very best of the EMS profession. His actions brought care and hope in the midst of disaster, reflecting the heart of what it means to serve as a Paramedic.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Paramedic Matt Magiera as a Star of Life.

Beau McFarlin is being commended for her exceptional skill, professionalism, and resilience during a critical emergency response involving a severely ill cardiac patient. Working alongside Flight Nurse Arianne Emling, Beau provided intensive care to a patient with an Impella heart pump following a stent placement at a rural catheterization lab.

The patient was hypotensive and combative, requiring continuous intervention for three hours prior to transport. Beau and Arianne worked tirelessly to stabilize the patient—maintaining airway integrity, managing life-threatening physiological changes, adjusting ventilator settings, and ensuring the Impella device remained operational despite a failing battery.

By the time the aircraft lifted off and the patient was transferred to the receiving hospital, the patient’s condition had significantly improved. The outcome was a direct result of Beau and Arianne’s clinical expertise and their unwavering commitment to patient care, even under extraordinary pressure.

Air Evac Lifeteam is proud to recognize Flight Paramedic Beau McFarlin as a Star of Life.

Alexander Megquier is being celebrated for his swift, lifesaving response to a medical emergency involving a dialysis patient. The patient had accidentally opened their fistula and lost a severe amount of blood, leaving them semi-conscious and on the verge of cardiac arrest.

Arriving first on scene, Alexander found the patient covered in blood and immediately put his clinical training into action. With calm precision, he rapidly administered blood products, stabilizing the individual so they could be transported safely to the hospital for advanced care. The patient had lost more than 800 milliliters of blood from the ruptured fistula, yet thanks to Alexander’s quick intervention, they survived—and today credit his response with saving their life.

Alexander’s skill, dedication, and commitment to patient care reflect the very best of the EMS profession. American Medical Response is proud to recognize Paramedic Alexander Megquier as a Star of Life!

Douglas Milks is being honored as a Star of Life for demonstrating one of the most important skills in emergency medical services—compassion. During a severe winter storm in the Town of Evans, south of Buffalo, Douglas responded to a call despite a driving ban and whiteout conditions. Navigating impassable roads, he reached a critically ill patient in need.

Although the patient later passed away, Douglas’ kindness and empathy left a profound impact. The patient’s spouse shared that Douglas provided not only comfort and dignity to their loved one in their final hours, but also a deep sense of peace to her as she said goodbye. His ability to offer both excellent medical care and heartfelt human connection exemplifies the very best of the EMS profession.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Paramedic Douglas Milks as a Star of Life.

Magen Morris is being recognized for her extraordinary service and unwavering commitment to patient care, especially during times of crisis. Whether working extended hours, managing a surge in call volume, or stepping up to cover staffing shortages, Magen consistently rises to the occasion with grace and determination.

Her calm, focused demeanor and “can-do” attitude reflect her deeply rooted mission to serve others. Colleagues and supervisors alike describe Magen as a cornerstone of strength—a quiet mentor who leads by example and is always ready to lend a hand when it’s needed most.

Magen’s impact extends far beyond her daily duties. She embodies the spirit of teamwork, compassion, and resilience, making her not only an invaluable asset to her organization but also a true inspiration to everyone around her.

MedicWest is proud to recognize Magen Morris as a Star of Life!

Holly Nasello is being lauded for her quick and accurate intervention in the case of a patient found unresponsive at a local car wash. Arriving on scene with her partner and local fire personnel, Holly immediately recognized the signs of a major heart attack and administered lifesaving aid without delay.

Working seamlessly with her partner and the fire crew, Holly helped stabilize the patient and prepared them for rapid transport by an awaiting air medical team. At the hospital, the patient underwent placement of four stents and spent nearly two weeks in the intensive care unit before being released. Physicians later described the outcome as nothing short of a “miraculous recovery.”

Holly’s decisive action, clinical expertise, and calm under pressure exemplify the very best of EMS and the critical role Paramedics play in saving lives every day.

Life Line Ambulance is proud to recognize Holly Nasello as a Star of Life!

Trey Phillips is being commended for saving the life of a patient who nearly drowned while he was attending a continuing education training in Orlando, Florida. During a break by the hotel pool, Trey noticed someone being pulled from the water—unconscious and not breathing.

Without hesitation, Trey’s EMS instincts took over. He immediately stepped in to assist hotel security, helping to remove the individual from the pool and initiating CPR. After several minutes of resuscitation, the patient regained consciousness.

Trey then placed the individual in the recovery position and remained at their side until Orlando Fire Department arrived, providing a thorough report to ensure a seamless transition of care. His quick action, calm presence, and commitment to excellence exemplify the very best of the EMS profession.

Air Evac Lifeteam is proud to recognize Trey Phillips as a Star of Life!

Rick Pringle is being honored for his extraordinary, lifesaving response to a horrific 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 massive shipment overturned on a Texas state highway, pinning a passenger from another vehicle beneath the fallen freight.

As the acting supervisor on scene, Rick coordinated the response with Paramedic Samantha Sabol, EMT Talitha Tanous, Temple Fire Department, and Temple Police during an intense, hours-long extrication effort. The operation demanded precise coordination, advanced clinical judgment, and determination to free and stabilize the patient so they could be transported safely for advanced care.

Rick’s steady leadership and unwavering focus, combined with the skill and dedication of everyone involved, ensured the best possible outcome in an incredibly challenging situation. His calm presence under pressure exemplifies the very best of EMS.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Rick Pringle as a Star of Life!

Julie Purick is being recognized for taking the term “commitment to patient care” to a whole new level. One winter morning, Julie responded to a fiery multi-vehicle collision where one of the victims had been engulfed in flames. Without hesitation, she worked alongside Rochester police officers to extinguish the fire and immediately began lifesaving treatment—placing the needs of her patient above her own safety.

Julie’s fearless actions ensured the victim could be stabilized and transported to the hospital. But heroism often comes at a cost. In the process of saving a life, Julie sustained severe respiratory injuries. She was hospitalized, intubated, and placed on a ventilator. Remarkably, just one week later, she recovered, the ventilator was removed, and she returned to duty—stronger and more determined than ever.

Julie’s courage, resilience, and devotion to her patients are not just commendable—they are unforgettable.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Julie Purick as a Star of Life!

LeAnn Riley is being honored for 35 years of unwavering dedication to problem-solving and her gift for empathetic, strategic communication in the face of crisis. As a calm and steady voice on the other end of 911 calls, she has guided countless individuals—many too frightened to speak clearly—through emergencies with precision, compassion, and care.

Her remarkable ability to ask the right questions and quickly assess the appropriate level of response is not a skill acquired overnight. It reflects decades of experience, professional mastery, and a deep understanding of the emergency medical services industry.

To her colleagues and supervisors, LeAnn is the very definition of an unsung hero. Her exceptional skill, accuracy, and commitment make her an indispensable part of her agency’s success and a trusted lifeline for her community.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize LeAnn Riley as a Star of Life!

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.