Christopher Spilde excels at providing excellent and compassionate care to patients in his community and is equally committed to fostering this same standard of care among his peers.

With approximately 28 years of service in Emergency Medical Services, nearly half of them within the Metro West family of companies, Christopher has become a trusted leader and mentor. At Woodburn Ambulance, he consistently demonstrated his commitment to EMS by mentoring others, even before holding formal leadership roles. Colleagues frequently sought his guidance to improve their performance and deepen their operational understanding.

Because of his dedication to supporting others, Christopher quickly advanced through the ranks at Woodburn Ambulance. He has served as a Field Training Officer and Shift Officer, and today he holds the role of Clinical Manager while also leading the company’s Quality Assurance Program. In addition, Christopher regularly contributes as an instructor, teaching classes for local first responders.

His unwavering dedication, wealth of experience, and commitment to excellence embody the very spirit of the Stars of Life award. Christopher’s impact on Woodburn Ambulance and the citizens it serves is both deep and lasting. Woodburn Ambulance is proud to recognize him as a Star of Life.

Joe Sisneros found his calling in service early, beginning as a volunteer firefighter in Alaska. When he saw ambulance calls going unanswered, he stepped up without hesitation. He earned his EMT certification and ensured his neighbors had someone they could rely on in their moments of need.

That spirit of care and commitment followed him to Crescent City, California, where he joined Del Norte Ambulance and pursued his Paramedic training. For Joe, emergency medicine became more than a job—it became a passion.

Today, Joe leads Del Norte Ambulance’s Explorer Post 911, mentoring the next generation of responders. Under his guidance, the program has become a launchpad for future EMS professionals. Explorers learn CPR, basic first aid, and the fundamentals of EMS operations, ride along with professionals, and gain firsthand insight into what it means to serve. Beyond technical skills, Joe instills responsibility, compassion, and pride in community service. Many of his Explorers have gone on to become EMTs and Paramedics, carrying forward the values they learned under his mentorship.

Joe is also committed to education and clinical excellence. He provides continuing education courses for his team and other responders, ensuring that professionals remain current, sharp, and ready to deliver the highest standard of care. He contributes to the Del Norte Ambulance CQI committee, helping elevate standards, foster accountability, and build a culture where learning never stops.

For Joe, saving lives begins in the community. He teaches CPR to neighbors, students, and local organizations, empowering everyday people to act confidently in a crisis. His classes not only build lifesaving skills but also create a stronger, safer community. His love for teaching extends to local schools, where he collaborates with science clubs to give students hands-on experience in emergency care.

Joe Sisneros does not simply serve his community—he lifts it up. Del Norte Ambulance is proud to honor him as a Star of Life, recognizing his compassion, dedication to education, and lasting impact as both a caregiver and a leader.

Daryl Kennedy embodies the very spirit of the EMS Star of Life. Since joining Advanced Life Systems in September 2024, he has become a valued member of our Spokane operation, setting a standard of excellence for all who serve alongside him.

A devoted single father, Dary’s ability to give his all-both at work and at home-is nothing short of remarkable. His journey in EMS began as a volunteer firefighter/EMT, where his commitment to serving others first took root. When he joined Advanced Life Systems as a full-time EMT, his dedication, skill, and compassion quickly set him apart.

In recent months, Daryl has stepped into the role of Field Training Officer, where his professionalism, empathy, and depth of knowledge have made him a cornerstone of our new employee orientations. He invests in the growth of every new EMT, ensuring they are prepared not just to do the job, but to truly serve their community.

Daryl’s impact extends far beyond the walls of our organization— every patient, family member, and colleague who interacts with him feels the strength of his character and the sincerity of his care. His nomination for the EMS Star of Life is a reflection of his leadership, his tireless work ethic, and his unwavering compassion.

Naomi Crittendon exemplifies the spirit and resilience of the EMS profession. Since joining Olympic Ambulance in April 2023, she has quickly become a cornerstone of the Pierce County medic unit, balancing full-time fieldwork with her ongoing education as a student. Her dedication to both patient care and team development is nothing short of inspiring.

Naomi plays a pivotal role in onboarding new hires, guiding them from day one through field readiness with clarity, confidence, and compassion. She actively contributes to New Employee Orientation, teaching key components with a depth of knowledge that reflects her mastery of the craft. Her peers consistently recognize her not just for her technical skill, but for her integrity, adaptability, and unwavering support.

Often described as the “universal EMT,” Naomi thrives in any situation-whether it’s a high-acuity call or a complex team dynamic. She approaches every challenge with a solution-focused mindset and a calm, capable presence. Her passion for patient care is matched only by her commitment to the well-being of her colleagues.

Naomi Crittendon is a rising star whose impact is already deeply felt across the organization. Her nomination for the EMS Stars of Life is a tribute to her excellence, leadership, and the future she’s helping shape in emergency medical services.

From a young age, Domingo Barboa knew he was called to serve. Growing up in Kingman, Arizona, he watched his father—a retired fire chief and Paramedic—lead with compassion and integrity. His father instilled in him the values of civic service and compassion. The stories shared by community members about his father’s impact left a lasting impression, inspiring Domingo to follow in his footsteps as a second-generation first responder.

Today, Domingo serves as an EMT with Cascade Ambulance in Bellingham, Washington, where his dedication to patient care and calm leadership make him a standout member of the team. His journey into emergency medicine began with hands-on experience in sports medicine and clinical CNA work, laying a strong foundation for the high-acuity care he now provides on the front lines.

Domingo is known for his sharp critical thinking and steady presence in high-pressure situations. He plays a vital role in onboarding and mentoring new EMTs, helping shape the next generation of emergency medical professionals. His ability to lead with humility and confidence has earned him the respect of both colleagues and patients alike.

A valedictorian in high school, Domingo brings academic excellence and a tireless work ethic to everything he does. He is currently advancing his education in paramedicine and critical care nursing, with the goal of expanding his scope of practice in service to his community.

Cascade Ambulance is proud to recognize Domingo Barboa as a 2025 Stars of Life. In a field defined by unpredictability and urgency, Domingo remains resilient under pressure, grounded in service, and unwavering in his commitment to compassionate care.

With more than a decade of distinguished service in emergency medical services, Julianna “Juli” Wadsworth exemplifies the highest standards of leadership, clinical excellence, and compassion. Her unwavering commitment to both patients and colleagues has earned her the respect and admiration of everyone around her.

Juli has served in multiple roles throughout her EMS career, including as a supervisor, where she was responsible for guiding teams through some of the most critical decisions in high-pressure environments. During her time in leadership, she played an instrumental role in developing and implementing Olympic Ambulance’s New Employee Orientation Program, which continues to support the growth and success of providers across the organization. Her calm demeanor, integrity, and ability to balance the needs of patients, providers, and the community have made her an indispensable leader.

After advancing her clinical skills and earning her Paramedic license, Juli continued to shine as both a caregiver and mentor. Whether responding to a 911 call in the middle of the night or staying late to support a crew after a difficult shift, she consistently demonstrates humility, empathy, and selflessness. She is deeply committed to mentoring new EMS professionals and advocating for continuous improvement in patient care.

Her colleagues describe her as a steady presence who inspires those around her to deliver their best, both in and out of the field. Juli’s tireless dedication reflects the very spirit and values of the Star of Life.

Olympic Ambulance is proud to recognize Julianna Wadsworth as a Star of Life!

Joe Scott has been a dedicated member of Medix Ambulance in Warrenton, OR since 2016. He began his EMS career in a wheelchair van, quickly obtaining his EMT license within a few months. Joe has since worked full-time on the ambulance, consistently striving to advance his career and enhance the level of care he provides.

In 2022, Joe earned his Paramedic certification from the National Medical Education & Training Center in West Bridgewater, MA, as part of Medix’s tuition assistance program. Since obtaining his Paramedic credentials, Joe has swiftly climbed the ranks, becoming a Field Training Officer and Shift Lead. He also served on the company’s safety committee, holding the roles of Safety Officer and Chairperson. In addition, Joe taught the Advanced EMT course at a local community college in 2022, further demonstrating his commitment to education and mentorship.

Before his EMS career, Joe studied music with a focus on percussion and worked as an arranger and instructor for high school marching bands and percussion ensembles. He is currently pursuing his CCP-C certification to expand his knowledge and provide exceptional care to his patients.

Medix Ambulance Service is proud to nominate Joe Scott as a 2024 Star of Life for his dedication, leadership, and commitment to the EMS profession.

Don Marr has served his community through EMS and EMS education for more than 40 years. During that time, he has held the positions of EMS Program Coordinator and Lead Instructor at Southwestern Oregon Community College, Training Officer for Bay Cities Ambulance, Education Specialist at Bay Area Hospital, Senior NCO for the Oregon Army National Guard Medical Training Team, and Emergency Medical Response Coordinator for the US Navy in the Emergency Management Office at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, home of the 5th Fleet.

Don has been a guest instructor in the two medical schools in Lithuania as a team member providing the first ACLS training in Lithuania, and at the medical school in Bahrain mentoring the instructors setting up and providing the first Pediatric Advanced Life Support training and certification in Bahrain. While in Bahrain Don taught the “Medical Response to Weapons of Mass Destruction Course” to US Navy medical personnel and doctors, nurses, and Paramedics from Salmaniya Medical Center, Bahrain. Don is currently a Paramedic and Paramedic Preceptor at Bay Cities Ambulance.

Don enjoys going on long-distance motorcycle ride as well as helping his wife of 43 years with her collection of chickens, ducks, and geese.

Thank you, Don Marr, for all that you do to support Bay Cities Ambulance and the communities we serve.

Jorge Garcia, an Emergency Medical Technician at Umpqua Valley Ambulance, joined the EMS profession in 2019. He is currently completing Paramedic School, furthering his passion for caring for his community—a passion he has nurtured from a young age. Initially finding his calling as a Pastor in his church, Jorge later expanded his service to the medical field, where he continues to make a significant impact.

In addition to his EMT career and paramedic studies, Jorge remains active in his church, volunteers with his local Fire Department, and enjoys experimenting with cooking. He’s particularly famous among friends and colleagues for his habanero chicken mac and cheese.

Jorge is recognized by his supervisor and peers as a spirited, intellectual individual who consistently goes above and beyond to provide exceptional care and comfort to his patients. He lives by the personal motto: “A mission given is a mission complete.”

Jorge’s dedication to his profession and his community has made him an invaluable asset to Umpqua Valley Ambulance. The company is proud to nominate Jorge Garcia as a 2024 Star of Life, honoring his commitment, compassion, and unwavering love for EMS.

Don started his EMS career over 37 years ago as an EMT/Firefighter in Astoria, Oregon. While he enjoyed being a firefighter, he fell in love with the EMS side of the job.

As such, 19 years ago, Don came to Medix Ambulance as a Paramedic Supervisor. Three years ago, Don progressed to overseeing the operations in our newest division in Longview, Washington.

Don’s dedication to his job, the company, and the care of our patients has been a huge part of Medix’s continued success.

Don has been married to his high school sweetheart for 35 years. Together they share three beloved children. The couple adores doting on their four grandchildren.

Medix is proud to call Don Thomas a 2023 Star of Life.

Darrell Stanley is approaching his 22nd anniversary serving his community at Olympic Ambulance. Throughout his tenure, Darrell has excelled in many roles in the organization. He has proudly led his colleagues as Duty Officer for his shift since 2015.

As an experienced Field Training Officer, Darrell is a State Emergency System Evaluator and has been key to the initial education of development of local EMTs. Darrell’s vast experience and knowledge make him an important element of Olympic’s continued success. Darrell also lends his many talents to the EMS high-risk infection team in the state of Washington.

Throughout Darrell’s time with Olympic Ambulance, he has provided quality patient care while simultaneously going above and beyond to work across departments and divisions to achieve our shared goals. Olympic is proud to honor Darrell Stanley as a 2023 Star of Life.

“Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”
—J.K. Rowling.

Kristina Ploeger’s passion is to serve as a light for others during their worst moments. This drive stems from her humble upbringing in Arizona, which instilled in her values that paved the way for the person she is today. Kristina realized at a young age what was important to her; family, health, and happiness.

In that spirit, Kristina launched her healthcare career in 2002 caring for dementia patients. A few years later, she started volunteering as a Firefighter with Columbia River Fire in St Helen’s, Oregon. It was there that Kristina quickly realized she had found more than a career—she found her destiny. Kristina graduated from college, earned her Paramedic license, and spent 17 years working for Metro West Ambulance in Hillsboro, Oregon.

Last year, in search of a change of scenery, Kristina and her family moved to Idaho where she became licensed as a real estate agent. A few months later, when she learned that Metro West had become the ambulance provider for Baker County, Oregon, she couldn’t pass up the opportunity to serve at Metro West again. Kristina has spent many years providing great patient care. Now she has taken on the role of helping to build and grow a new division for the company.

Kristina’s spare time is often spent with the Coast Guard Auxiliary promoting water safety. Kristina is happily married to Paul Ploeger. Together they have five beautiful children as well as a daughter-in-law and a son-in-law. 

Metro West is proud to honor Kristina Ploeger as a 2023 Star of Life.

Erica Blockman is the clinical Coordinator and Paramedic for Del Norte Ambulance. Prior to joining Del Norte Ambulance, Erica served as a certified Flight Paramedic, a ground transport Paramedic, and engineer firefighter. She received her Fire Science degree in 2007 and her Associate of Science Degree in Prehospital Emergency Medicine in 2013.

Erica has gone above and beyond the call of duty time and time again. Her efforts significantly impact our company and our community through her commitment to providing quality mobile healthcare.

In addition to her commitment to EMS, Erica also strives for physical well-being. She is a former IFBB Physique bodybuilder and a physical trainer. In her free time, Erica enjoys relaxing with her dogs and paddle boarding on our local river.

Del Norte is proud to honor Erica as a 2023 Star of Life.

Cyndy Cain is Umpqua Valley Ambulance’s first EMT nomination for the Star of Life. She is a shining example of Servant Leadership and we are lucky to have her. There is no one here more dedicated to the care and service of others. Whether it is taking care of patients, family, or other crew members; she always puts others first. With a smile on her face, she brightens the room. Her cheery disposition and baked goods, which she brings in for all the employees, uplift our hearts and feed our souls. Not only does she maintain her infectious sunny disposition every day, but she will call you out when you are wrong and always stands up for anyone who needs a hand. We are lucky to have such a shining star as Cyndy, which is why we think she is the perfect person to represent our EMTs at the Star of Life this year.

These were the words that represented Cynthia Cain for the 2019 Star of Life, she was one of two of our employees nominated. Due to COVID the Star of Life was postponed. In the following months Cyndy was diagnosed as terminal. Cyndy never stopped being our shining example and could not do anything but put others first. When the AAA and our company’s Owner heard that Cyndy would not be able to make it to a future Star of Life, they got together and came to Umpqua Valley Ambulance to present Cyndy with the Star of Life. Cyndy had shared with me through tears of joy that she had never felt so honored, but even then, she did not recognize that she earned this honor through her daily commitment to others. She stayed working at Umpqua Valley Ambulance until the pain would not let her continue. She told me she saw our company as extended family and there was no where she felt more at home and nothing she liked more than helping people in their time of need. She often still stopped by just to see how we were doing and to bring in baked goods, which she would continue to do for as long as she was able. She worked diligently to make sure her Mother, Sister, and Nephew were taken care of when she was gone. Even while she was transitioning into the last days of her life she worried about their futures and put them first. She not only showed us how to live each day with happiness and love in your heart, she also showed us all how to leave this world a better place. She made our world a better place every day and set an example for all of us to follow. To honor Cyndy and all those like her in the world we need to keep a cheery disposition in our hearts and as Roy Bennett best put it “Help others without any reason and give without the expectation of receiving anything in return.” Thank you Cyndy for all that you have done for us.  

Nic Heller began working in EMS four years ago after a good friend and neighbor gave him an application to volunteer for Polk County Fire District. After six months of initial training, Nic began responding to calls and was immediately hooked. He received his EMT-B certification and joined Pacific West Ambulance (PWA) two months later. 

Nic is currently training to be a Paramedic while working two full-time jobs. In addition to his job as an EMT, Nic serves as a Behavior Consultant subcontractor for the state of Oregon and writes behavior plans for adults that live in assisted living and memory care facilities. He also continues to work as a volunteer for Polk County Fire District. Nic plans to attend the National College of Technical Instruction (NCTI) next year and to return to PWA upon completion of his degree.

Nic and his wife, Cassandra, have two children, Mercy and William, two dogs, and two cats. Nic enjoys spending as much time as he can with his family, as well as playing bass guitar for his local church.

Robert has worked for Medix Ambulance since November of 2010 as an EMT Basic. Robert is very knowledgeable, which is one of the many reasons his partners enjoy working with him. Robert is pleasant and hardworking, and always goes the extra mile to perform additional tasks and assist his co-workers. He never questions an assignment, and always finds ways to achieve his goal in the simplest and most effective method possible.

Robert is married to Brenda, the Communications Supervisor for Medix. During his free time, Robert enjoys kayaking, local sports programs, and enjoying the outdoors.

Robert’s presence and cooperation are greatly appreciated. Medix believes Robert embodies exactly what a Star of Life should be and is very proud to have him represent our company. 

Candice Dickson’s first day as a paid EMT on an ambulance was September 11, 2001, with AMR Rancho Division in Southern California. A year and a half prior, Candice found herself suddenly widowed and was looking for a sense of control and security, which the challenges of mobile healthcare fulfilled. Of her experience in EMS, Candice says, “I found that I got back from it so much more than I ever expected. I found like-minded people with tons of curiosity and interesting senses of humor, people that took their skills very seriously, but didn’t have to wear their scars.”

In 2003, Candice became a Paramedic after studying at Crafton Hills College in Yucaipa, California. She received a field internship at Yucaipa City Fire, which lead to a paid position as a Call Firefighter, in addition to her full-time Medic job with AMR. Candice also began teaching in the EMT and Medic program at Crafton Hills. In order to improve her wildland fire skills, Candice also worked for a short period for the California Department of Forestry.

Candice moved to Phoenix, Arizona in 2006, and worked for South West Ambulance, before returning to the West Coast and relocating to Lincoln City, Oregon in 2008. She has been a Medic with Pacific West Ambulance (PWA) since 2009, and has enjoyed the challenges of working in a rural community with a rigorous Medical Advisor. In 2017, Candice attended and graduated from the North Lincoln Fire & Rescue Academy, which has allowed her to live her passion for EMS and serve her small community even more.

When not on duty, Candice loves to go fishing.

Sheila Jackson has worked for Metro West Ambulance for over 20 years. Calm, professional, and caring, Sheila continuously demonstrates high level compassionate clinical care, whether it is a routine patient transport or a more emotionally challenging event.

Mentoring new Paramedics and EMTs is Sheila’s passion. Sheila’s 20 plus years of dedication to EMS is seen throughout community, as she spends a lot of her off time volunteering with animal shelters and with a local fire agency. While volunteering, she trains, coaches, and mentors new Medics, and is always ready to share her years of wisdom with others, from new EMTs to seasoned Paramedics. 

When not on duty, Sheila enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Sheila’s dedication to Metro West Ambulance and the EMS community is demonstrated through her hard work and perseverance. She is loyal, honest, and committed to the growth of the EMS profession. She rarely misses a day of work, fills in when necessary for fellow medics, and continuously volunteers her time to make a difference. Metro West Ambulance is proud to honor Sheila as a 2019 Star of Life.

After 14 years in Special Education working with medically fragile individuals, Cassandra Sperlein made the leap to EMS. She began her career as an Emergency Medical Technician in Los Angeles, where she worked for two years on an interfacility transport unit doing Basic Life Support and Critical Care Transports. She then worked as an Emergency Medical Technician for a special events company, where she also held the positions of Field Training Officer and Supervisor.

In January 2017, Cassandra began her career at Metro West Ambulance as an EMT in the Wheelchair Department. She was able to obtain her Ambulance Certification and started working on an ambulance shortly after starting with the company. Cassandra recently moved to the Standby Division and is currently attending Paramedic school. After a few years of experience in the field, Cassandra hopes to become a Field Training Officer in order to help and teach new EMTs and Paramedics.

Cassandra greatly enjoys reading and taking adventures with her wife and 5 year old son.

Prior to moving to Roseburg, Oregon, Bob Wilkinson worked in Virginia for Richmond Ambulance Authority where he completed a certificate in Paramedicine. Bob has served Douglas County, Oregon since 2005, beginning as an EMT with WEST Ambulance in Roseburg while working on an Oregon Paramedic license. A few years later, Douglas County Fire District #2 purchased the EMS division. Currently, Bob is a Paramedic with Umpqua Valley Ambulance in Roseburg.

Over the years, Bob has taken on the role of a quiet, behind the scenes leader. He is always looking for new ways to keep busy, such as volunteering as a Child Safety Seat Technician and teaching part-time for the local Paramedic program as an instructor for Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events and for High Threat Techniques and Tactics. Bob is passionate about the physical and mental health of his crews, and thus also regularly volunteers as a crisis intervention PEER counselor.

On October 1, 2010, Douglas County public safety entities were put to the test when an active shooter threatened the local community college. The mass casualty incident gave Bob the opportunity to analyze the procedures and consider ways in which his crews could improve their response. According to Bob, “EMS is one of the most dangerous service jobs out there. We interact with the public usually during some of the most stressful times of their lives.” As a result, he is working to provide crew members with body armor to use in high-stress situations, as well as to increase training on situational awareness.

Bob has been married for 31 years and has three children. He spends most summers with his parents in Alaska, where he was born and raised. When he is not working on one of his worn-out vehicles, Bob enjoys fishing and reloading. Prior to his career in EMS, Bob worked as a baker and pastry chef, and recently made his daughter’s wedding cake.