Larissa Schwerin, NREMT-P, FF1, FF2, is a Paramedic with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service whose career reflects a deep commitment to service, preparedness, and compassionate patient care. Since beginning her EMS career in 2021, Larissa has served communities in both Michigan and Illinois, earning the respect of colleagues through her clinical expertise, professionalism, and ability to remain composed in challenging situations.

Larissa began her EMS career in Michigan, earning her Paramedic license shortly after obtaining her EMT certification. She started professionally with Universal Ambulance before joining Superior in Michigan, where she served for three years. In July 2025, Larissa transitioned to Superior’s Illinois operations, continuing to demonstrate clinical excellence, teamwork, and a commitment to the highest standards of patient care.

Before entering EMS, Larissa served in the United States Army as a Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) Fire Direction Specialist with the 41st Field Artillery Brigade, attaining the rank of Private First Class. She was among the first female MLRS specialists in the nation and the first woman to serve in that role within her unit. Larissa was honorably discharged in 2015, carrying with her lessons in preparation, discipline, teamwork, and composure under pressure that continue to influence her work as a Paramedic.

Those qualities were on full display in July 2026 when Larissa and her EMT partner were transporting a patient who unexpectedly went into active labor. During her assessment, Larissa determined that delivery was imminent. With no additional assistance nearby and no hospital within a reasonable distance, she directed her partner to safely pull the ambulance to the side of the highway and prepared to deliver the baby.

In the back of the ambulance, Larissa remained calm, focused, and compassionate as she and her partner successfully delivered the newborn and cared for both mother and child. Faced with a rapidly evolving situation far from additional resources, Larissa relied on her training, clinical judgment, and preparation to take control of the situation and provide the care her patients needed.

From military service to emergency medicine, Larissa has consistently demonstrated the ability to serve others with courage, discipline, compassion, and professionalism. Her preparedness and composure inspire confidence among her colleagues and help ensure exceptional care for her patients. Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Paramedic Larissa Schwerin as a Star of Life.

Jessica Bertolotti, FP-C, CCEMTP, NRP, is a Critical Care Manager, flight Paramedic, educator, and EMS leader whose nearly three decades of service have been defined by clinical excellence, education, mentorship, and support for fellow EMS professionals. Jessica began her career with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance in 1997 and has served as a Critical Care Paramedic, Critical Care Flight Paramedic, Clinical Coordinator, and, since 2021, Critical Care Manager.

Today, Jessica leads the Midwest’s largest critical care transport team while supporting clinical education, staff development, operational improvement, and program growth. She has strengthened Superior’s Advanced Scope Paramedic program, developed competency-based critical care training, and served as the primary instructor for Advanced Scope Paramedic education as well as Critical Care Orientation and Onboarding. Her work has helped build collaborative relationships among Advanced Scope providers throughout the region and expanded her educational and consultative reach into Wisconsin.

Jessica also manages a specialty team supporting a pediatric critical care transport program, where Advanced Scope Paramedics and EMTs work collaboratively with a hospital-based transport team. Across these responsibilities, she combines extensive clinical experience with a passion for preparing clinicians to deliver exceptional care to some of the most critically ill and medically complex patients.

Her commitment to EMS professionals extends beyond clinical performance. Jessica leads Superior’s CARE Team, a peer-support program with members across multiple states. Recognizing that meaningful support must be both approachable and accessible, she developed a centralized website of mental health and wellness resources for Superior employees and established multiple pathways for employees to access peer support. Her work reflects a deep understanding that caring for caregivers is essential to building a strong and sustainable EMS workforce.

Jessica’s influence reaches beyond Superior through her service to the critical care and air medical communities. She has served as the Illinois representative for the International College of Advanced Practice Paramedics (I-CAPP) and volunteers with E.C.H.O. (Every Coast Helicopter Operations) as Co-Director of Education, a Conference Planning Committee member, and a Peer Support Team member. Through these roles, she advances education, professional development, collaboration, and peer support for clinicians beyond her own organization.

Throughout her career, Jessica has demonstrated that exceptional EMS leadership means developing both clinical excellence and the people behind it. Her dedication to advancing critical care, educating and mentoring clinicians, and supporting the well-being of EMS professionals exemplifies the spirit of a Star of Life. Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to recognize Jessica Bertolotti as a Star of Life.

Debra “Deb” Scott has built a career around service—first protecting her community and now preparing the next generation of EMS professionals to care for theirs.

Before entering EMS, Deb spent more than 25 years as a police officer in Illinois. She has since devoted 24 years to emergency medical services, building a career as both a Paramedic and educator. Deb earned her Lead Instructor (LI) certification in 2012 and joined Life Ambulance Network in December 2021, bringing decades of public safety experience and a passion for developing confident, compassionate EMS professionals.

As Lead Instructor for the Life EMS Academy, Deb coordinates the EMT program, manages educational compliance, and serves as a trusted resource for the Academy’s instructors. She personally onboards and mentors new instructors and has played an integral role in shaping the Academy’s teaching standards. Over the past four years, Deb has taught more than 500 EMT students. Many are now working in EMS, while others are preparing to graduate from Paramedic programs, extending Deb’s influence far beyond her own classroom.

Despite her responsibilities as an educator, Deb has never left the street. She continues to serve on an ALS ambulance when needed, bringing current, real-world experience directly into the classroom. Her students learn not only what the textbook teaches, but also how to apply that knowledge when patients, families, and fellow clinicians are depending on them.

Direct, caring, and compassionate, Deb sets high expectations because she genuinely wants those around her to succeed. She consistently goes beyond what is required and never hesitates to step in when a student, colleague, or leader needs support. Whether the need is professional or personal, Deb is a trusted mentor and a steady presence. To those who work alongside her, she is often the glue that holds the team together.

Outside of EMS, Deb treasures time with her family and enjoys animals and horticulture.

Through more than 25 years in law enforcement, 24 years in EMS, her continued service as a Paramedic, and her extraordinary commitment to education, Deb has dedicated her life to serving others. Her greatest legacy may be the hundreds of EMS professionals who carry her lessons, standards, and compassion with them on every call.

Life Ambulance Network is proud to recognize Deb Scott as a Star of Life.

Nicole Hughes of Advanced Medical Transport (AMT) has demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to her community through her work supporting veterans participating in the Greater Peoria Honor Flight Program. An Army veteran herself, Nicole brings a deeply personal understanding of the importance of honoring those who have served and ensuring they receive the care, dignity, and respect they deserve.

Nicole has taken a leadership role in strengthening the medical support AMT provides for Greater Peoria Honor Flight participants. Recognizing the unique medical needs of the veterans who make these journeys, she has worked collaboratively with the Honor Flight organization to ensure appropriate, dependable, and compassionate medical staffing. Her efforts have helped enhance the safety and overall experience of participating veterans while strengthening the partnership between AMT and this respected community organization.

Nicole also coordinates and supports the AMT employees who participate in Honor Flight missions. She provides direction, promotes teamwork, and helps ensure that each member of the medical team approaches the experience with professionalism, compassion, and a shared commitment to serving veterans. Her leadership allows AMT clinicians to focus on providing the support necessary for veterans to safely participate in a meaningful and memorable experience.

For Nicole, the mission carries special significance. Her own Army service gives her a personal connection to the veterans she supports and a profound appreciation for their sacrifices. Rather than simply participating in Honor Flight, Nicole has sought opportunities to make the program stronger and to ensure that the veterans it serves are supported throughout their journey.

The impact of her work has been recognized beyond AMT. Community partners have repeatedly expressed their appreciation for Nicole’s contributions, dedication, and commitment to the Greater Peoria Honor Flight Program. Their recognition reflects the relationships, credibility, and trust she has built with veterans and community organizations alike.

Through her leadership, collaboration, compassion, and commitment to service, Nicole has made a meaningful difference for veterans, colleagues, and community partners. Her work reflects a powerful continuation of her own commitment to service: a veteran now helping ensure that other veterans are honored and cared for.

Advanced Medical Transport is proud to recognize Nicole Hughes as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Sara Rolando, Director of Operations at Medics First, is an exceptional EMS leader whose commitment to service extends from the patients and professionals in her organization to the broader community.

In her leadership role, Sara oversees the complex demands of emergency medical response while ensuring Medics First provides reliable, compassionate care for non-emergency transports. She leads with integrity, resilience, and a deep respect for the people around her, earning the trust of employees and community partners alike.

Sara is particularly passionate about helping others grow. She invests in her team members through coaching, thoughtful feedback, and skill development, creating an environment where employees feel supported and motivated to succeed. When challenges arise, Sara approaches them as opportunities to learn, improve, and strengthen the organization. Her ability to inspire others while maintaining high standards has made her a trusted and respected leader.

Her commitment to improving community health and safety is equally evident. Under Sara’s leadership, initiatives such as the Medics First AED Grant Program work to place lifesaving automated external defibrillators in public spaces, helping communities become better prepared to respond when sudden cardiac arrest occurs.

Through her compassion, integrity, and community-first approach to leadership, Sara strengthens not only Medics First but also the people and communities it serves. Medics First is proud to recognize Sara Rolando as a Star of Life.

Julie Humes is being recognized for her unwavering commitment to patient care, even under the most extreme conditions.

During one particularly disruptive weather event, a head-on collision occurred, and the air medical team was grounded. Without hesitation, Julie volunteered to respond by ground vehicle. Her swift decision proved instrumental in saving the life of a critically injured patient who was bleeding profusely.

Julie administered blood and other lifesaving interventions, remaining by the patient’s side until they were safely transferred to hospital care. Thanks to her extraordinary skill and steadfast presence, the patient ultimately survived and was discharged after several weeks.

Julie is a hero who consistently puts patients’ needs at the forefront of her decision-making. Her calm under pressure and dedication to her community embody the very best of emergency medicine.

Air Evac Lifeteam is proud to recognize Flight Nurse Julie Humes as a Star of Life!

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!

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.

Tarun “Terry” Prajapati’s path into emergency medicine began from the patient’s perspective. After surviving a serious car accident, he was inspired by the compassion and skill of the ambulance crew who cared for him. Determined to provide the same comfort to others, he soon enrolled in EMT school.

At the time, Terry was working at Kinko’s, where he met MedEx Ambulance Service CEO Lauren Rubinson while assisting with presentation materials. Unaware that she owned the company, he casually asked if MedEx was hiring EMTs. With her encouragement, he applied and officially joined the MedEx team in 2006.

Terry’s career is a testament to dedication and growth. He advanced from EMT to Paramedic while attending nursing school and earning his BSN. His experience spans emergency and trauma departments across Chicagoland, shifts on the ambulance, and service as a Flight Nurse providing care worldwide.

Today, Terry balances multiple roles with remarkable commitment. He is a Nurse Practitioner, a Firefighter Paramedic with the Leyden Fire Protection District, and founder of a Prehospital Mobile Clinic designed to bring urgent care directly to underserved communities. His work demonstrates not only his clinical expertise but also his innovation and passion for equitable patient care.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Terry and his wife are eagerly preparing to welcome their first child this December.

From the patient seat to advanced practice nursing, Terry’s journey reflects resilience, service, and a lifelong commitment to others. MedEx Ambulance Service is proud to honor Tarun “Terry” Prajapati as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Ryan Zavada is a deeply dedicated member of Advanced Medical Transport of Central Illinois, where he has served with distinction for the past 12 years. His EMS journey began 23 years ago as a volunteer Emergency Medical Responder with the Long Point Fire Department. Today, as a highly skilled Critical Care Paramedic, Ryan provides expert and compassionate care for patients with the most complex and delicate needs.

In June, Ryan and his partner were entrusted with transporting a young hospice patient whose final wish was to pass away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones. Along the route, the patient’s family asked if the ambulance could slow down so she could glimpse her beloved horse one last time. Upon learning about the patient’s lifelong devotion to the animal, Ryan and his partner made a safe stop, allowing her to share a final, tender moment with her horse before continuing home. This simple yet profound act of compassion brought immeasurable comfort and joy to the patient and her family during a heartbreaking time.

Ryan’s actions reflect the very best of what EMS represents. He understands that his role is not only to provide excellent clinical care but also to honor the dignity, humanity, and emotional needs of every patient. His calm, reassuring presence helps ease the burdens of those experiencing some of life’s most difficult moments, and he takes pride in being both a source of kindness and professionalism.

Beyond his patient care, Ryan serves as a mentor and role model for newer providers, consistently demonstrating Advanced Medical Transport’s core values: Compassionate, Accountable, Respectful, Ethical, and Sustainable.

Advanced Medical Transport proudly recognizes Ryan Zavada as a Star of Life for his compassion, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.

Mathew Matouk serves as a Paramedic at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance in Illinois, where he is recognized for his clinical expertise, commitment to patient care, and dedication to mentoring new EMS professionals.

Mathew began his EMS journey in 2015 while attending culinary school. Seeking a career with greater purpose, he enrolled in the Emergency Medical Technician program at Joliet Junior College, later completing the Paramedic Program at Ingalls Memorial Hospital in Harvey, Illinois. In 2019, he expanded his emergency service credentials by earning his Firefighter II certification.

He joined Superior in July 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and has continually advanced his training. In 2022, he completed the Critical Care Transport Paramedic Program at Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin. The following year, he became a Field Training Officer, where he assists Superior’s education department with new-hire orientation, skills assessments, and training.

Mathew is being honored as a Star of Life for his life-saving actions during a roadside emergency. While off duty, he and his partner stopped to assist an unresponsive patient experiencing a drug overdose on the side of an expressway. Mathew immediately administered Narcan, secured the airway, and ensured the patient’s safety until fire department EMS crews arrived to continue care. His swift intervention made the difference between life and death. In recognition of his exceptional performance, Mathew received the Top Performer Award at Superior’s inaugural EMS Symposium in Rosemont, Illinois, in February 2025.

Outside of work, Mathew enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new cuisines, and pursuing his passion for the arts. A drummer and theater enthusiast, he has even appeared as an extra in an episode of Chicago Fire. Looking ahead, he aspires to become a Registered Nurse and is a strong advocate for paramedic-to-RN bridge programs.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to celebrate Mathew Matouk as a 2025 Star of Life.

Dustin Williams serves as an Emergency Medical Technician, Assistant Manager of Critical Care Transport (CCT), and Manager of Ground Organ Transport (GOT) at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance in Illinois. Since joining Superior in 2022 after completing the EMT program at the Technology Center of DuPage, Dustin has distinguished himself through leadership, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.

He began his career in the field as an EMT and Field Training Officer, mentoring new hires and ensuring they were well prepared to serve patients and the community. His leadership potential quickly became evident, and in 2023 he was promoted to Assistant Manager of CCT. In this role, he oversees a team of more than 120 critical care paramedics, nurses, EMTs, and Emergency Medical Responders across multiple stations. At the same time, Dustin serves as Manager of GOT, leading a team of 15 drivers who support surgical teams across Chicagoland.

As Superior’s youngest manager, Dustin has embraced responsibility with enthusiasm and professionalism. He ensures the operational readiness of medical equipment and fleet resources, supports compliance and accountability, and prioritizes safety across all operations. He personally meets with new drivers to review responsibilities and expectations, and he plays a key role in safety education, including Certified Emergency Vehicle Operator (CEVO) training and Superior’s annual “Safety Road-e-o” driving assessments.

Dustin was nominated as a Star of Life for his outstanding leadership, positive attitude, and transformative contributions to both patient care and safe ambulance operations. His colleagues praise his willingness to help, his ability to mentor across all levels of staff, and his dedication to building a culture of safety and excellence at Superior.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to recognize Dustin Williams as a 2025 Star of Life.

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.

Michael Mitchell earned his EMT certification from Waubonsee Community College, where he was recognized on both the Dean’s and President’s lists. While his ultimate goal is to become a police officer, Michael began his EMS career in February 2024.

Michael and his partner are being recognized as Stars of Life recipients for their life-saving actions during a critical incident. While stopped at a red light, they were approached by an off-duty police officer carrying a pediatric patient who had been shot. Thanks to their quick response, the crew was able to initiate life-saving measures and transport the infant to the nearest trauma center. This event highlights Michael’s dedication and skill in emergency medical services, demonstrating his commitment to providing exceptional care in the most challenging situations.

Diamond Hall, an Emergency Medical Technician with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Illinois, is being recognized for her exemplary dedication to public service and her remarkable life-saving actions. A graduate of Oak Park River Forest High School, Diamond went on to complete her EMT training at Illinois Central College, where she was a member of the honors society and earned two academic scholarships. Her commitment to public service extends beyond EMS, as her ultimate goal is to become a police officer.

Diamond and her partner are being honored as Stars of Life for their swift and heroic response to a critical situation. While stopped at a red light, an off-duty police officer approached their ambulance carrying a pediatric patient who had been shot. Thanks to their quick thinking and immediate life-saving interventions, Diamond and her team were able to stabilize the infant and transport them to the nearest trauma center. This incident is a powerful example of Diamond’s skill, composure, and dedication to Emergency Medical Services.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Diamond Hall as a 2024 Star of Life for her unwavering commitment to saving lives and serving her community.

When a premature baby, born at 27 weeks’ gestation, was in respiratory distress, Dakota Shadwell’s expertise and training on the Bubble CPAP helped save the infant’s life.

It happened when Dakota and his partner, Kelly Hamill, were called to help a patient who had been taken to a local emergency department in a rural area that did not specialize in obstetric or neonatal care.

Once there, Dakota and Kelly delivered excellent patient care to not just one, but two patients—the mother and her baby—until additional specialty help arrived. The baby, who weighed just two pounds, would go on to receive additional care from a ground pediatric specialty team while Dakota and Kelly transported the mother by air to another regional health facility.

Kelly Hamill is being honored for her impressive ability to pivot the focus of her care and successfully utilize her training on a new lifesaving technology for infants.

Kelly’s dedication and flexibility were recently demonstrated when she and her partner were dispatched to a rural hospital for what they thought was a call for a mobile EMS response for an adult female transport. However, they ended up providing care and resuscitating a baby as well.

Kelly and her partner, Dakota Shadwell, worked together to stabilize both the mother and the baby, who was born prematurely at 27 weeks’ gestation and weighed only two pounds. They utilized Bubble CPAP technology designed specifically for such small and fragile patients. Their skillful employment of this new advanced system allowed the baby to go from a distressed respiratory condition to a stable one.

The pair then continued to treat the baby, increasing blood glucose, attempting UVC, and obtaining peripheral IV access. They stayed with the baby until a ground pediatric specialty team arrived, then transported the mother by air to another regional hospital.

Danny Neczek is a skilled EMT and 20-year veteran at MedEx Ambulance. Danny functions as an Operations Supervisor, and will soon complete his training as an ambulance mechanic as well.

On the evening of March 6th, while supervising MedEx’s South Base, Danny suffered full cardiac arrest. Ironically, the team was celebrating National Employee Appreciation Day with pizza.

Fortunately, Danny was surrounded by five EMTs and three Paramedics. The MedEx team immediately reacted and began resuscitative measures on Danny. Danny was down for 22 minutes when the team finally got a pulse back. Danny was rushed by a MedEx crew to the University of Illinois Hospital, where he was placed in a hypothermic coma. Miraculously, 10 days later, Danny was discharged from the hospital with NO lasting effects from the incident.

Today Danny has returned to full active duty, and serves as a walking and talking reminder of the importance of what EMS does each and every day.

Janet Brooks began her career with Superior Air-ground Ambulance Service, Inc. back in December 1992. After spending her early professional career in Food Service, which included management with K-Mart and McDonald’s, she grew unhappy with the inability to do what she really wanted to do—follow in the footsteps of her mother, a cardiac nurse, and help others. 

As a small child Janet would find all types of small, wounded animals and bring them to her mother to see how they could help them heal. Some lived and some died, but that didn’t deter Janet.

At the age of 15 she became “Candy Striper” volunteering her Saturdays to deliver mail and flowers to sick patients at the hospital where her mother worked. After her shift was over, she would go up to her mother’s unit, where (under supervision) she was allowed to help care for patients.

Janet volunteered this way for two years, during which she learned how to perform CPR. It was impossible to predict how this training would pay off in the future, until…

While camping on vacation in Rapid City, South Dakota, tragedy struck. Janet witnessed a young female being pulled from the pool in an apparent drowning.  Janet swiftly swam to the other side of the pool, jumped out of the water, and asked if anyone knew CPR. Janet was met with blank stares and asked someone to call 911. Janet, now 18, tried to remember her CPR training from 3 years back. She performed chest compressions and gave mouth-to-mouth the best she could until the young victim began to cough up pool water. Janet quickly turned the victim onto her side so she wouldn’t aspirate and covered her up with towels to keep her warm. In the distance, Janet heard the wail of the sirens of the inbound ambulance. The victim was then taken to the waiting ambulance and was quickly whisked away.

That is when the shock hit Janet. With the assistance of her friend’s father, Janet was taken to their camper shaking uncontrollably. Doubts ran through her min. “What if I didn’t perform CPR correctly? Did I do more harm than good?” But she guessed doing something, even imperfectly, was better than doing nothing at all.

Once she calmed down, Janet called home to tell her family how her vacation was going so far. She was able to see the Black Hills from their campsite. She was going to see Mt Rushmore and that she had just saved a drowning victim. Her mother began to cry and was grateful her daughter was where she needed to be at that time and place. Janet’s mother contacted the volunteer office and thanked them for requiring that hospital volunteers learn CPR. Janet still has the article that was written about her in the hospital’s newsletter.

Janet attended a local Community College where she has an associate degree in criminal justice. Her desire was to further her schooling, but money was in short supply. So, Janet began to work at McDonald’s on campus. Janet worked her way up to Assistant Manager in just a few short years. Janet worked for Mcdonald’s for 12 years and was also working part-time at a local K-Mart.

The day Janet witnessed a cat being hit by a car changed her life. A woman standing on the side of the street picked up the cat and began to run toward the local Fire Department. Janet, who was driving by in her car, yelled to the woman to get in and she would then drive them to an area animal hospital. Sadly, the cat—who belonged to the woman’s daughter—died of a broken back. Janet then asked where her daughter was, trying to make small talk to take the uncomfortable silence away while driving the woman and the dead cat to their animal hospital 30 minutes away. The woman said that her daughter worked at the local zoo and that she should call her. Janet informed the woman that she should wait until her daughter came home from work to inform her that her pet had been killed. The woman agreed and thanked Janet for helping her out in her time of need. The woman asked Janet what she did for a living and Janet told her she worked for McDonald’s but was unhappy due to her being passed over as a Store Manager. Janet asked the woman what she did for a living and the woman stated she was going to school to become an EMT. Janet always wanted to work on an ambulance but had no idea how to go about doing so. The woman then told Janet that she had what it took to become an EMT, she helped a stranger in her time of need. She told Janet that if she was serious about a career change, she would talk to her instructor and get Janet into the next class. Janet enrolled in the next EMT class.

Following her hire, Janet worked hard at Superior. After her day shift, she would volunteer her time on an ALS rig so she could learn as much as possible.

Janet was the first station manager to have a station at a local hospital where she attended their Paramedic program. Janet was in the 1996-1997 Paramedic class, all the while running a station. Once she graduated, she stepped down as a manager to begin her career as a Paramedic.

Janet tested into one of Illinois’ most prestigious EMS systems, Northwest Community Hospital. Janet is a FTO and a Paramedic Preceptor. Janet was also an EMS Coordinator working between NWC and Superior.

Janet has been influential in helping save the Company thousands of dollars with the development of the pack system. Janet and her former station manager were tired of throwing away dirty supplies and began to use Seal-A-Meal to package supplies to help keep them clean and organized. Superior adapted the program and uses it to this very day.

Janet works a 24-hour shift and serves at special events like concerts, sporting events, and the Chicago Marathon. In 2004, Janet was part of a deployment for then President-Elect Barack Obama’s Inauguration to head to Washington D.C. to provide EMS services while the D.C. paramedics took care of the events at the Capitol. Janet has worked on several movie shoots and an episode of Extreme Home Makeover.

Janet is a team player when it comes to helping new station managers become acclimated to the station and the crew members. She takes on the role of making sure the station has the supplies needed. In fact, Janet is known at her station as Momma Jan. She makes sure that the station is clean, that rigs are stocked appropriately, and reminds the crews to be safe and have a great day.

Janet enjoys listening to music, concerts, and jigsaw puzzles. When Janet isn’t working, she is at home with her wife of 12 years and their two rescue dogs. Janet and her wife are very active with their church. They prepare meals for the food and housing insecure in their community. They serve meals for the PADS Interim Housing Center. As well as two senior complexes for food insecurity with the Northern Illinois Food Bank. Janet also volunteers at the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Marco Patino NRP, LI, is a dedicated and accomplished healthcare professional who embarked on his career with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Inc. in February 2017. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for serving his community, Marco has made significant contributions to the field of emergency medical services (EMS) in Illinois.

Currently, Marco Patino holds the position of Paramedic and serves as an integral part of the Superior Leadership team as the Manager of Education for Illinois. In this role, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and a strong commitment to improving the quality of EMS education and training in the region. Marco’s dedication to teaching and his role as a support structure for EMT classes have made him a respected figure in the EMS community.

One of Marco’s notable achievements has been his involvement in implementing EMR (Emergency Medical Responder) programs in high schools throughout Illinois. By introducing these courses, he has played a crucial role in educating the next generation of EMS professionals and raising awareness about the importance of emergency medical services.

What makes Marco’s journey even more inspiring is the fact that he is a DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipient. Despite the challenges and uncertainties that come with this status, Marco has shown remarkable resilience and determination in pursuing his career in healthcare. He not only serves as a role model within the EMS field but also advocates passionately for the rights and opportunities of DACA recipients. His advocacy work sheds light on the importance of inclusive policies and support for individuals who, like him, have made significant contributions to their communities.

In addition to his demanding leadership responsibilities and advocacy efforts, Marco remains deeply connected to the field of clinical practice. He actively schedules himself for ambulance shifts multiple times a week, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to providing hands-on care to patients in need. This dedication ensures that he stays connected to the realities of pre-hospital care, which, in turn, informs his leadership and educational roles.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Marco Patino values and cherishes his time spent with his two children, Layla and Troy, as well as his beautiful wife Sabrina. These relationships are a source of strength and inspiration, driving him to excel both personally and professionally.