Cheryl VanSeters joined Life EMS Mobility Division in 2016 as an Emergency Medical Technician after becoming a State of Michigan licensed EMT. Her rapid ascent through the ranks exemplifies her commitment and dedication to the field of emergency medical services. In 2018, Cheryl transitioned to the Control Center as a System Status Controller and by 2020, she had achieved her Advanced Emergency Medical Dispatcher certification. Demonstrating a continued passion for excellence, Cheryl became a Field Training Instructor in 2024, focusing on improving training processes and methodologies for new hires.

Cheryl’s role as a mentor is central to her leadership style, characterized by her personal commitment to the professional growth of her colleagues. She is renowned for her ability to tailor her training techniques to suit individual learning styles, ensuring all new dispatchers are well-prepared and confident in their roles. Her proactive approach to workplace challenges and her anticipatory skills ensure smooth operations and a supportive working environment.

Her exceptional leadership and performance have consistently been recognized with top-tier Quality Improvement (QI) scores. Cheryl’s dedication extends beyond her official duties; she is known for volunteering for extra tasks and always being available to assist her peers and the field crews. This commitment was further highlighted when she topped her class at the National Emergency Number Association 911 Center Training Officer course.

Cheryl’s empathy and compassion shine through in every interaction, whether on the phone with a caller or in face-to-face discussions with colleagues and trainees. Her ability to bring joy and positivity to every shift not only uplifts her team but also enhances the overall atmosphere of the Control Center.

Life EMS celebrates Cheryl VanSeters as the 2024 Star of Life, a deserving recognition for someone who puts her heart into her job, positively impacting every person she interacts with and continuously driving change to improve the services at Life EMS.

Patti Ludvig McCartney began her Paramedic career in 1997 with the Life EMS Kalamazoo operation. She served that community with the utmost skill and compassion for two decades. Her passion for the art of paramedicine, coupled with her expertise and mentorship has had an immense impact on the junior associates at Life EMS.

Patti briefly left Life EMS to pursue an ER-based paramedic role at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo. Her time there was short-lived, when she learned of an opportunity to join the Life EMS Community Paramedic team at TANDEM365, a mobile integrated health program. Her passion for pre-hospital medicine and care at the community level returned her to EMS in order to pursue this novel discipline.

Patti’s journey as a Community Paramedic has been marked by her ability to bridge the gap between traditional emergency medical services and community health care. Recognizing that many medical emergencies stem from unmet long-term health needs, she has been instrumental in creating plans that focus on preventive care and chronic disease management. Her proactive initiatives have not only reduced the number of 911 calls and emergency room visits but also enhanced the quality of life for countless individuals.

One of Patti’s most notable contributions is her work with underserved populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those struggling with the full spectrum of social determinants of health. She is literally changing lives for the better. Patti consistently goes above and beyond, building strong relationships with her patients, advocating for their needs, and ensuring they receive the appropriate care and resources. Her ability to connect with her patients on a personal level has fostered trust and encouraged adherence to treatment plans, resulting in improved health outcomes.

Patti’s leadership extends beyond direct patient care. As a mentor to fellow paramedics and healthcare professionals, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of community paramedics. Through her guidance, many have adopted her holistic approach, focusing not only on acute medical needs but also on the social determinants of health. Patti’s influence has helped expand the community paramedic program, making it a vital component of the healthcare system in Kalamazoo, Allegan, Ottawa, Kent, Montcalm, and Newaygo Counties.

Patti’s commitment to continuous learning and improvement is another hallmark of her career and stays at the forefront of advancements in paramedicine, regularly participating in professional development and contributing to research aimed at improving community healthcare delivery. Her expertise is widely recognized by her peers and other members of her multidisciplinary team, and she is often sought out for guidance on difficult cases.

Patti’s advocacy for healthcare equity, her passion for preventive care, and her dedication to improving the lives of those most in need have left an indelible mark on the community she serves. She exemplifies the very best of what it means to be a community paramedic: a compassionate healer, a tireless advocate, and a trusted leader.

For her extraordinary service, unwavering commitment, and profound impact on the field of community paramedicine, it is with great pride that Life EMS Ambulance recognizes Patti as a Star of Life.

Keone Bareng currently serves as a Paramedic Supervisor for Life EMS Ambulance of Michigan. He started in Emergency Medical Services in 2002 as an Emergency Medical Technician, then in 2010 he became a licensed Paramedic before progressing to Field Supervisor in 2018.

Keone always does his best to be helpful, and is often the first one to step up when assistance is needed. He has great communication skills and a positive attitude, key leadership traits that are greatly appreciated by all of his associates at Life EMS. When Keone is on duty you know it will be a good day. He always asks how he can make the day better for his colleagues whether it is visiting the Control Center, moving associates to different stations, or by working in the field with a solo EMT or Paramedic when ALS assistance is needed. Keone interacts positively with everyone he encounters and always represents Life EMS to the highest standard in the communities we serve.

Keone is well-deserving of this recognition due to his extraordinary efforts to deliver skill and compassion to his patients, customers, and associates. Life EMS is proud to celebrate Keone as a 2024 Star of Life.

Aaron Wainwright began his journey in EMS in 2011 and soon after, in 2012, he joined Life EMS as an EMT. Demonstrating a commitment to continuous growth, Aaron achieved his Paramedic certification in 2019. In 2021, he progressed to Supervisor in the Northern Operations in Mason County.

As a leader, Aaron stands out as a true visionary. He possesses a unique ability to communicate his expectations with both clarity and precision, ensuring that every team member comprehends their specific duties and responsibilities. This style of leadership not only nurtures unity within the team but also boosts overall efficiency and productivity.

Beyond his leadership skills, what truly distinguishes Aaron is his authentic and respectful care towards his patients. The warmth of his demeanor combined with his innate empathy establishes a comforting atmosphere for those in need of medical assistance.  Patients consistently express their gratitude for his attentive and compassionate approach, underscoring his commitment to providing exceptional care.

In addition to his professional achievements, Aaron is an exceptional human being. He treats everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of their role or background. His willingness to lend a helping hand and offer guidance to colleagues further solidifies his reputation as a remarkable leader and team player.

Life EMS Ambulance is proud to recognize Aaron Wainwright as a Star of Life.

Veronica launched her EMS career in 2002 as an EMT in the Mobility Division at Life EMS Ambulance. She switched gears and joined the Life EMS Control Center team in 2009. Here, she rose through the ranks and became a Supervisor in 2016, a position she excels in to this very day.

Veronica has always been incredibly kind and helpful to the associates in the Control Center. Veronica’s dedication to professionalism, leadership, and compassionate care is truly exemplary. Her impact on our team, the associates in the field, and the communities served by Life EMS cannot be overstated.

Veronica is well deserving of recognition given her extraordinary efforts and attributes. The Life EMS Control Center celebrates Veronica as a 2023 Star of Life.

Stephanie launched her EMS career in 1994 in Ontario, Canada. She worked at Toronto Paramedic Services in numerous roles including Commander.

In 2019, Stephanie joined Life EMS in the Mobility Division. Since then, she has progressed through several roles, including working on the ambulance. She was promoted to Supervisor in 2021. Today, Stephanie is the Mobility Supervisor and Behavioral Health Transport Liaison for Life EMS Ambulance

Stephanie is hard-working, reliable, and thoughtful. She consistently exceeds the expectations of her colleagues, patients, and customers. She is deeply kind, and always checks in with coworkers to see how they are doing. The associates rely on her for advice and help.

Stephanie is truly deserving of this recognition, and Life EMS Ambulance is proud to celebrate her dedication, skill, and compassion.

Chris Kapla received his Paramedic license in 2006 and joined Life EMS in 2009.

Chris is a dedicated Paramedic who excels in training staff. He is also a member of the CISM team. Chris upholds the values of Life EMS by delivering skill and passion with dignity and respect.

Matt Hapner joined Life EMS in 2014, and is currently a Medic, Supervisor, and Education Coordinator (Medic Instruction).

Matt brings a strong drive and dedication to the Education Department every day. He has grown through the ranks at Life EMS, beginning as an EMT, then a Paramedic, and now a Supervisor. He has served the community with skill and compassion, and has earned the respect of his colleagues with his willingness to help each associate gain the knowledge they need to better themselves every day on the road.

As a result of his passion to help others, Matt transitioned to the Education Department and became the lead Paramedic educator. He has brought the same skill and compassion that he displayed in the field to the classroom, and goes above and beyond for every student. He will make time for anyone who has a question or who is struggling with learning, including coming in on his days off to help students prepare for tests. Matt is passionate about setting his students up for success with the skills and knowledge they need before starting their clinicals on the ambulance.

Chris Fouch joined Life EMS in 2009 and is currently a Paramedic and full-time Field Training Instructor in the Kalamazoo, MI operation.

Throughout his time at Life EMS, Chris has demonstrated an incredible resiliency and a willingness to lead by example. He has recognized that leadership alone cannot set the culture and tone within an organization, and has stepped up to assist by acting as a positive role model for new associates. As a result, Chris has taken on additional responsibilities over the past year, including the formal orientation of new hires. He has been invaluable in orienting EMTs to the NICU and PICU ambulances, as recent transitions in policy allow for EMTs to complete these mission critical transports. Chris has been cited by the local medical control authority (KCMCA) as “the field trainer who is ‘doing it right,’” ensuring that training is complete, all medical control course work is completed, and trainees are set up for success.

Chris displays a contagious spirit of positivity and it is authentic in every way. He enjoys participating in shift builds for schedules and continually seeks any way in which he can better both himself and Life EMS as a whole. Through the active participation of associates such as Chris, the future of Life EMS is bright.

Life EMS is honored to nominate Chris as a 2022 Star of Life for his work ethic, tenacity, grit, positivity, and organizational involvement.

Tim Dickinson earned his Paramedic license from Montcalm Community College in 1996. He started out working as an EMT and Paramedic for Newaygo County/Gerber Ambulance, and also served as a firefighter in the county for several years. 

In February of 2000, Life EMS took over EMS operations in Newaygo County, and Tim began working as a part-time EMT and Paramedic, while working full-time at the Sappi paper plant in Muskegon. Tim began full-time work for Life EMS in 2011 after the paper mill closed. Currently, Tim serves as a Paramedic Field Supervisor in the Newaygo County operation; a position he has held since 2015. Tim lives in the Fremont area with his wife, Louise, and they have three grown children and four grandchildren.

Tim has earned the respect of his coworkers who nominated him as a Star of Life. He demonstrates a lead-by-example approach in his commitment to the associates, patients, and facilities he serves. Tim works tirelessly to make sure the schedule is fully staffed and often fills shifts himself, even at other operations. One nomination wrote, “Tim is highly organized and takes care of issues in a timely manner, which is noticed by associates and keeps morale on the right side of the scale. I cannot think of a better choice to represent Life EMS than Tim Dickinson.” Life EMS Ambulance is proud to recognize Tim Dickinson as its 2019 Star of Life.

Life EMS Ambulance is pleased to recognize James Hadley as our 2014 Star of Life. James began his career at Life EMS Ambulance in 1997 as a mobility (wheelchair transport) associate. James obtained his basic EMT license in 2002. James has served effectively in many different roles, including as a mobility associate, as a basic EMT working on an ALS ambulance, and for many years as the support services coordinator at our Grand Rapids Central Support Facility. James demonstrates reliability, a strong work ethic, and resourcefulness no matter what role he was filling. However, James has earned his recognition as our Star of Life for the outstanding ancillary work he has done that goes beyond his typical duties. James has represented Life EMS on the planning committees for community events such as the Grand Rapids Festival of the Arts and for many athletic events such as the Grand Rapids Marathon and Iron Man Triathlon. James has done a great job helping plan and organize the medical component of these events, and he often is present during the events to oversee and coordinate the EMS medical coverage. In this role James has developed many great relationships with key community leaders and groups and has been an excellent ambassador for EMS in general and Life EMS Ambulance in particular. James has also served as an installer for our Life Extra Care personal response system (PRS). He has done a great job in this role, providing skilled customer care in not only installing the system in customer’s homes but carefully explaining the service, answering questions, and making sure the needs of our elderly customers are met. In these roles James displays caring for his customers and provides feedback and assistance to his teammates to make improvements in our services. In everything James does, he makes a significant contribution to our company, our customers, and the communities we serve. James is truly a Star of Life!”

Rich is a Paramedic Field Supervisor in our Ionia County operation, and he exemplifies the best of Life EMS through his professionalism, dedication, and compassion.

He joined Life EMS in 2008 as an EMT, and two years later he earned his Paramedic certification. Fast-forward two more years, and Rich obtained his critical care Paramedic certification, and in 2013 he was promoted to field supervisor.

Always smiling, Rich presents himself in a confident and professional manner. He maintains a calm, reassuring demeanor with his patients and a cheerful, educational attitude with coworkers.

Rich is supportive of his coworkers both in their personal lives and professionally. He is always ready to help a new associate, and shares his knowledg as a very patient trainer. As a supervisor, he listens to all sides, and he doesn’t mind if someone calls him at home to trouble-shoot an issue when the on-duty supervisor is out on a call.

Over all, Rich leads by example and keeps the best interest of the communities we serve front and enter at all times. In the past, he has covered countless hours as an on-call supervisor when needed, and he continues to step up and fill partial shifts to make sure staffing levels are maintained.

Rich was instrumental over the last many months as we worked to implement HealthEMS Mobile Touch. He was one of our original beta testers and worked tirelessly on documenting using Mobile Touch to help identify issues and improve the product as we prepared it for roll-out. His feedback to Life EMS and to the vendor was very helpful. Rich also helped train his fellow associates.

Rich is a true family man. He drives the Belding Band, supports the drama arts, and encourages his children in all that they attempt. In addition to all the community activities he participates in, Rich is also an active firefighter with the Belding Fire Department.

John began his EMS career at Life EMS Ambulance in 2008 after 25 years working in another field. John began as an EMT-Basic, working in mobility and as a ReadiMedic before becoming a Paramedic. John received his paramedic license in 2009 and was promoted to a level II in 2011. Recently, John has spearheaded the new ICP role, working closely with Tandem 365 to service clients through the integrated care system. John feels that this is his most rewarding career experience to date. John said, “Seeing what EMS can be and will be has been the most rewarding experience.” John has also made LPGA standby a success the past two years.

John’s humility, actions, and performance point to his love of EMS and dedication to his career. Life EMS Ambulance is proud of John, who truly is deserving of the Star of Life award.

Ryan Davis has been a Life EMS associate since April 2007, and has held various operations roles from Paramedic to Field Supervisor. Ryan is an exceptional role model for his associates and has a passion for field training equaled only by his drive for continual improvement. His work has produced a variety of success stories at Life EMS and he consistently seeks to raise the bar in education. Ryan is a critical deliverer and developer of training in the field training tracker platform.

Beyond his role in associate training, Ryan is active in coordinating clinical third riders among KVCC, WMED, and KCC. Even with his additional responsibilities, Ryan still finds a way to carve out time to coach associates in their day-to-day work life, to serve as a Kalamazoo County Medical Examiner Investigator, and to complete his bachelor’s degree at Western Michigan University. Ryan is one to count on in times of crisis—always calm, level- headed, and hard-working yet approachable.

Ryan holds his critical care certification and is been a key link in the chain of success at Life EMS.

Jake Winn was selected by his fellow employees to be a 2016 Star because of his compassion and willingness to help others.

After his first medical response call as a volunteer at the local fire department in a small community, Jake knew that he wanted to be involved in EMS. He earned an EMT basic license in June of 2013 and became an employee at Life EMS in
September of that year. Subsequently, he enrolled in an EMT Advanced class, which he completed in July of 2014. Realizing how advanced life support can improve patient outcomes, Jake promptly enrolled in Paramedic school and is scheduled to graduate this July.

A dedicated husband and father of three children, Jake manages to balance family life, school and his job at Life EMS. He also works at Pond Creek Volunteer EMS. In the little spare time he can find, Jake enjoys the outdoors, including fishing and hunting, and is an avid OU football fan.

Life EMS is honored to present Jake Winn as one of its 2016 Stars of Life.