Mid-Valley Ambulance is honored to present Maddox Allen with a Star of Life award. Following in his father’s footsteps, Maddox started in his family’s business of veterinary medicine before recognizing that emergency medicine was his true passion. In 2011 he received his EMT certification and began volunteering at Lane Fire Authority as a Firefighter. Maddox completed his Paramedic degree in 2017 and has plans to continue his education as a Critical Care Paramedic and to pursue his bachelor’s degree in emergency medicine.

One of Maddox’s most commendable traits is his willingness to expand his knowledge of emergency medicine in rural areas. Maddox has participated in Cycle Oregon, a 1,500 mile bicycle tour around Oregon that requires camping out and treating patients for a multitude of injuries and illnesses throughout the tour. He has also participated in community career events and standbys at specialized events.

Maddox is a shining example of the future of EMS in Oregon, and Mid-Valley Ambulance is incredibly proud to introduce him as its award recipient.

Kiefer was born and raised in Powers, Oregon. In high school he excelled in both academics and athletics. He was class valedictorian and a member of the National Honor Society. He has always had an interest in the medical field and decided to pursue EMS at his local college.

Kiefer has been a Paramedic since 2014 and has worked at Bay Cities Ambulance since 2016. In addition to a being a Paramedic, Kiefer is also Bay Cities Ambulance’s Safety and Operations Committee President. He enjoys EMS because each shift is different than the last, and he has a passion for the new challenges and opportunities that critical care presents.

When he is not working, Kiefer enjoys golfing and elk hunting with his friends and family. His wife, Ericka, is a huge support system and has been a key part of his success in the field. Kiefer also enjoys spending time with his kids, Kayle, Kipton, Ensley, and Kannon.

“Outstanding people have one thing in common: an absolute sense of mission.” These words by Zig Ziglar perfectly describe Metro West Ambulance’s Marketing/Customer Advocate & Recruiter Karri Bolman!

Metro West is proud of Karri’s advocacy and how she has championed EMS throughout her career. Karri works closely with our region’s long-term care facilities, adult foster care homes, assisted living, independent living, and memory care facilities. She familiarizes these organizations with EMS, interfacility mobile healthcare and mobile integrated healthcare, then trains and supports them and the residents that they care for.

Karri joined the Metro West Ambulance Family of Companies in 2003. She started as a Customer Service Call Taker, then became a Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) certified Dispatcher in our Communications Center. In 2005, Karri joined Metro West’s Marketing & Business Development team. Karri is now our company’s talent recruiter, responsible for hiring new employees for all divisions and positions. This includes presenting at Oregon EMT and Paramedic education programs in addition to promoting career programs at local high schools.

Throughout her career, Karri has been very involved with several local organizations. Currently, Karri serves on the Board of the Eldercare Support Foundation which provides “Senior Wishes” to geriatric patients. She serves as the President of the Senior Provider Information Network, a group dedicated to providing quality continuing education and networking opportunities to senior healthcare professionals. She is also on the board of the Oregon Health Care Association (OHCA) which represents more than 620 nursing homes, assisted living, residential care, senior housing facilities, in-home care agencies, and long-term care corporate offices, in addition to 200 nationwide business partner members.

Karri has worked hard to collaborate across disciplines to improve patient outcomes with a focus on long-term care. In addition to being recognized as an “Unsung Hero” within our company, Karri has received a Special Services Award from the OHCA. Karri has also been honored for her work by the Marquis Vita Life Foundation and by the Oregon Medical Case Management Group over the years.

Always first and foremost for Karri are her children, daughter, Hana, and son, Collin. Karri enjoys spending her time with them playing games, cooking, and going on family adventures hiking, golfing, and rock rappelling.

Metro West Ambulance is proud to honor Karri Bolman as a 2019 Star of Life in recognition of her dedication to our company, our mission, and her advocacy with our long-term health partners.

Mike started working in the wheelchair department of Metro West Ambulance in 2012 and climbed the ladder to Field Training Officer shortly after. While working, he is also attending The National College for Technical Instruction studying paramedicine. Mike moved to Oregon from Southern California 3 years ago and enjoys spending time with his family, his wife, two dogs, and soon to be daughter! Mike has told us he “Enjoys EMS because it takes the principles and satisfaction of giving great customer service that he learned spending years in retail and takes it to the next level.” He loves coming into people’s homes where they are having the worst days or months of their life and the challenge of meeting their needs and hopefully having a positive impact on that person. A favorite story of his that he likes telling new hires that he is training for the department is something a patient once told him while transporting to dialysis. She asked him if he liked his job, and he told her, “of course but doing Non-Emergency transports is not the end goal, I am going to paramedic school.” She replied, “While that’s nice, I want to remind you that even doing Non-Emergency transports you are saving lives. Because without medical transport, people like me would die. I need to get to dialysis and to my doctor appointments, and without you I would die.” Mike takes great pride in his work here at Metro West Ambulance and continues to go above and beyond the call of duty. We would like to applaud him for his continued efforts and loyalty to his patients, facilities and to our company as this year’s Star of Life.”

When a fellow paramedic FTO was asked what could be said about Spencer in his biography for the Star of Life Award, he immediately quipped, “He is tall and has a firm handshake!” This mention was quickly followed up with a smile, laugh and a detailed opinion about Spencer’s merits. This type of interaction exemplifies the reputation Spencer has at Metro West Ambulance. Spencer started working as an EMT-Basic in the wheelchair division of Metro West Ambulance in 2008. While working, he also studied paramedicine at Portland Community College. He graduated in 2009 and earned his paramedic license from the State of Oregon. He quickly moved up and into the ALS ambulance division. From day one of his FTO period, Spencer has been able to effectively balance his fun personality, professionalism and his constant willingness to learn and improve his practice. He is always challenging himself by expanding his knowledge of EKGs, cardiology and critical care medicine. Recently, he completed the lengthy and very challenging CCEMT-P course. This never-ending passion to learn and challenge himself has paved a quick road to his position as a field training officer. As FTO, he is now able to his share his knowledge and passion for EMS with new employees. Besides his clinical development, Spencer is also passionate about Metro West Ambulance’s operational success. He has volunteered on the Operations Advisor Committee, and has been chair for the past year. In that challenging position, he strives to constructively present new ideas, opinions and most importantly, effective solutions to management on behalf of fellow employees. He has proven to be a respected voice of reason that has brought renewed success to Metro West Ambulance. Metro West Ambulance is proud to honor Spencer as a 2014 Star of Life.”

In 2008 Robert Conrath joined the Metro West Ambulance family of companies. In 2011 he was promoted to Field Training Officer, during that time he played an integral part in developing policies and procedures for the Non-Emergency transport division. Becoming an FTO has allowed him to share his extensive skills and knowledge with new employees within the company. Robert has since graduated from Oregon Health and Science University’s Paramedic program and is continuing to make a difference within our ambulance division. Roberts’s strong willed dedication and leadership to the company has paved the way to success for our Non-Emergency division and he is an excellent example of a Star of Life recipient.”

Michael was hired by Metro West in April 2017. His new position as an EMT marked an official milestone in his life—he was transitioning into EMS following four years of service as an active duty U.S. Marine.

The transition between professions was seamless, though, as Michael applied the same levels of commitment, enthusiasm, responsibility, and dependability that he acquired while serving as a Marine. One of Michael’s most commendable traits, simply put, is his willingness to work.

Michael would begin every workweek looking for gaps in the weekly shift schedule, then he’d request to pick up the extra shifts, in addition to his own full-time schedule. If coverage was needed for an early transport or out-of-town movement, Michael was on it.

During the 2017 wild land firefighter season, Michael was constantly picking up extra shifts to provide coverage for EMTs who were either contracted out as wild land firefighters or were volunteering with separate fire agencies. It was Michael’s outstanding work ethic that catapulted him into a full-time position on a medic unit.

Michael continues to push himself as both a professional and a student as he pursues new and additional career opportunities. He earned a Tactical Combat Casualty Care certification and completed Secfor International’s challenging High Risk Medic program in November 2017.

He has undoubtedly raised the bar and set a new standard of excellence that is expected of new hires.

Michael is always quick to acknowledge the support, flexibility, and encouragement he receives from his supervisors, partner, dispatchers, family, and his new fiancée.

Metro West Ambulance is nominating Michael as a Star of Life for his incredible work ethic, consistently professional demeanor, and his adaptive personality.

Jason is celebrating his 15th year working as a Paramedic Field Training Officer with Metro West Ambulance, and he is being nominated in recognition of his operational excellence and the consistency that he maintains as a field trainer.

As a field training officer, Jason is always ranked as one of the top trainers by his Paramedic trainees. They regularly comment on how appreciative they are of his professionalism, his consistency in evaluation, and the detailed clinical and operational knowledge he shares with them.

Jason is a consummate professional, focusing on listening first and then professionally guiding his trainee in the appropriate direction. This subtle yet firm teaching style has allowed his trainees to feel much more comfortable stepping into their new role of Paramedic in a busy EMS system.

Jason is also a husband, father, and dedicated sports fan. When he is not busy training new Paramedics, he will be following his favorite basketball team or traveling to the latest EMS conference seeking more EMS knowledge.

Metro West is proud to call Jason Fleming a Star of Life for 2018.

Erik started as an EMT in the Metro West Wheelchair Transport Division back in 2011, then in 2014 he became a Nationally Registered Paramedic.

For the past two years, Erik has worked as a preceptor, mentoring Paramedic students throughout their internships, patiently sharing his knowledge and experience. Most recently, he has been promoted and is now serving as Metro West Ambulance’s newest Field Training Officer.

Metro West is celebrating Erik as the Star of Life for 2018 not only for his professional development in the organization but, more importantly, for his dedication to patient care.

This past fall, while off-duty and on the way to work, Erik came upon a serious accident where a pedestrian had been hit by a vehicle. Erik parked his car nearby and assisted with initial patient care, and he later ended up assisting the crews with the emergency intubation and transport to the trauma center.

On that call, and through his mentoring of new Paramedics, Erik has exemplified his dedication and service to EMS. 

We are proud to have him as Metro West’s 2018 Star of Life.

Laura joined Pacific West Ambulance as an EMT a little more than four years ago and has since become a Paramedic. During this time, she has proven herself to be a deeply compassionate caregiver for her patients as well as a true team player. She is always ready to help at a moment’s notice.

She started in EMS when she was working at the hospital in Poplar, Montana. The hospital had a volunteer ambulance service that often put on classes. At first she wasn’t too sure that EMS was where she wanted to be, but then she ran her first call. She says she immediately fell in love with the ambulance, the field, the constant newness…and the rest is history.

Laura is the chairperson for Pacific West Ambulance’s Safety, Operations, and Quality committee, which helps shape the day-to-day operations of the organization. She has been instrumental in advising management on different aspects of the operation and then making changes with the goal of producing better employee job satisfaction and patient outcomes.

In Laura’s off time, she enjoys spending time with her 9-year-old, Tristan, her other half, Chris, and their wiener dogs, Duck and Goose, along with an assortment of chickens. Her family enjoys outdoor activities including kayaking, fishing, hiking, hanging out at the ocean, beachcombing, reading, painting, and a bit of video-game playing.

Pacific West Ambulance is proud to name Laura T. Ballanger our 2018 Star of Life.

Randy has been serving our rural Oregon coastal community since 1994. He started as a volunteer firefighter at Coos Bay Fire Department and quickly discovered his passion for EMS. Randy then started his EMS career, first earning his EMT Basic then his EMT Intermediate while volunteering with the Coos Bay Fire Department.

Randy started with Bay Cities Ambulance in November 2002. He worked his first six years as an EMT Intermediate, often being the primary caregiver, and refined his skills and knowledge. Then in 2007, Randy started the hard work that resulted in his earning his AA degree in paramedicine in 2009.

Since becoming a licensed Paramedic with Bay Cities Ambulance, Randy has continued to advance in his chosen profession, progressing to Field Training Office and then Paramedic Supervisor.

Now in his 15th year with Bay Cities, Randy has advanced to Administrative Supervisor. In that role he has numerous different responsibilities, including helping to establish our Community Paramedic Program.

We are privileged to have Randy as part of our team here at Bay Cities Ambulance, and, as the organization continues to grow, we’re excited to watch Randy grow with us.

Jennel began her career in EMS as a volunteer firefighter and EMT at Lane Co. Fire District (now Lane Fire Authority), in 2008, and is now a Paramedic with Metro West Ambulance. Jennel truly values the training, experience, and support she received during her five years as a volunteer. Throughout her time as a volunteer, Jennel was awarded the EMT of the Year in 2010 and Public Educator of the Year in 2011.

Jennel became a Paramedic in 2013 and was hired by Metro West Ambulance in January of 2015. She was chosen as this year’s Star of Life recipient for Metro West Ambulance Eugene-Springfield because of her commitment, dedication, and passion for growth. Jennel is not afraid to step up to the plate and accept extra duties. On top of her ambulance and FTO duties, Jennel also helps with interviewing, hiring, and training new employees. She became an ACLS instructor late last year, with plans of obtaining additional instructor training in the near future. Jennel hopes that people can look up to her as a role model, and she enjoys helping those around her succeed.

Jennel believes her own personal success is in part due to those around her. Her superiors at work, her parents and siblings, and her husband and kids, all help make her into the outstanding Paramedic she is today. Jennel’s husband is also a Paramedic, and having that support is invaluable to her.

Melissa joined Metro West Ambulance on April 17, 2000 as a BLS provider in the non-emergent wheelchair transport division. Over the years, Melissa has held many positions within the company, such as shop manager, ambulance department supervisor, and dispatch supervisor. Melissa’s internal desire and strive to learn all there is to know in EMS and in the organization is commendable.

During the last year while fighting a very brave battle with cancer, Melissa has still been able to maintain her position as Logistics Manager, Chief of Staff, supervisor to the Vehicle Service Technicians, and supervisor of the Vernonia Ambulance Volunteers. Melissa will frequently staff openings in the 911 system and, in her spare time, volunteers at River City Speedway as one of the emergency responders during their racing events.

Despite her commitment to volunteer work and difficult battle with cancer, Melissa has remained dedicated to her career as an EMS provider, through both her duties at Metro West Ambulance as well as her support of her community.

It is Metro West Ambulance’s pleasure to nominate Melissa Zimmer as a 2017 Star of Life.

Theresa “Trese” has been a dedicated member of the Pacific West Ambulance team since September 14th, 2014 and has been in the EMS field since 2002. Trese has worked in many facets of providing emergency medical care, showing the ability to be versatile, knowledgeable, and compassionate. On a daily basis, she demonstrates being a team player with co-responders directing scenes, and by educating newer EMT’s and Paramedics.

Trese was promoted to the position of Field Supervisor in the Spring of 2016, where she provides support to upper management, fellow supervisors, and field staff. Trese aspires to become a Field Trainer for new paramedics and EMT’s joining the Pacific West team. Trese’s vision is to improve training by bringing new and innovative ideas to the table and developing her employee’s skills and ability to advance in the EMS industry.

It is with great pride that Pacific West Ambulance nominates Theresa Helstowski as our Star of Life for 2017. Trese Helstowski is a caring, devoted, and genuine individual; her commitment to high quality patient care shows in every step she takes with her job and every interaction she has with her patients. Our company and community thanks Trese for her unwavering service and countless hours of hard work.

Harlan Brock has worked for Metro West Ambulance for over 11 years. Whether delivering babies or mentoring new paramedics and EMT’s, Harlan’s passion and dedication to EMS and Metro West Ambulance are demonstrated through his hard and tireless work.

Harlan always leads by example and embodies Metro West’s core values of teamwork and dedication. This was demonstrated recently when he served as a volunteer member of a regional search and rescue effort to locate a missing girl in the Columbia River Gorge. Harlan reached out to local companies to coordinate supplies and resources needed for the search.

Recently, Harlan and his partner were cleaning the ambulance after a transport to a local emergency department. All of a sudden, a shiny new Tesla came screeching into the emergency department bay. Harlan heard an ED technician shout, “There is a woman in labor in that car!” and sprang into action. Harlan quickly put on a fresh pair of gloves, safety glasses, and grabbed an obstetrical kit as he followed the technician to the passenger side of the Tesla. Soon after Harlan began his assessment, he recognized the patient was going to deliver soon. Minutes later, a healthy baby girl was delivered in the front seat of the car. Harlan is able to quickly assess and respond to situations with the resources necessary, to assure optimal patient outcome. Calm, professional, and caring, Harlan continuously demonstrates high-level, compassionate, clinical care to all of his patients.

Harlan is loyal, honest, and committed to both his company and profession. Harlan rarely misses a day of work, fills in when necessary for his fellow medics, and continuously volunteers his time to make a difference. Metro West Ambulance is proud to honor Harlan as a 2017 Star of Life nominee.

Leanna was born and raised in Prineville, Oregon and eventually moved to Portland, Oregon to continue her education. She graduated from Portland Community College with a 4.0 GPA, and is currently enrolled at Portland State University where she is majoring in Biology with a minor in Public Health. She discovered early that she wanted to help people and eventually become a doctor. Two years into school, Leanna explored EMT classes so she could gain healthcare experience, and never thinking that she would enjoy being in EMS with the lights, sirens, and anxiety. But not only did she enjoy it, she excelled at it!

Shortly after receiving her EMT certification in 2014, Leanna joined Metro West Ambulance (MWA) as a member of the BLS team. Leanna stepped up to become a Field Training Officer (FTO) at MWA in the Wheelchair Transport Department, which allows her to polish her patient skills. Leanna cherishes moments such as holding patients’ hands when they’re scared or making balloon animals out of gloves for a smile. A career filled with patient care and focus rather than emphasis on emergencies, Leanna believes, can get personnel through the long days, failures, and heartbreak that is inherent in EMS. Teaching providers to stay compassionate while doing the hardest jobs imaginable is paramount to Leanna.

Leanna represents the BLS division and Vehicle Service Technicians on the Infectious Disease Control Committee. She created an infectious control guidebook for all of MWA as well as a specialized quick guide to protect new EMTs. Additionally, she submitted a proposal to change EMT training in the ALS division to cultivate leadership among new medics. She has also been an Activity and Skills Provider for People with Disabilities. Leanna is a great asset to EMS, to MWA, and to the communities in which she serves.

Leanna’s long-term focus is to become an emergency medical doctor, then eventually the medical director of an EMS agency. She is completing her medical school prerequisite classes now with a 4.0 GPA, and plans on taking the MCAT during the summer of 2016. One of her future goals is to make burnout uncommon among providers by changing the focus of EMS from emergencies to patient care. In the field, she has been a major part of amazing acts of heroism, compassion, and skill, but she’s also seen the toll this industry has on providers.

Robert found his calling in EMS when he began volunteering at a small rural fire department. He was immediately intrigued by the fast-paced environment, and set upon the path to becoming a Paramedic.

Now, with eight years of experience in the field, he is able to share his experience and wisdom with others. Robert is always happy to train new employees, and leads by example to instill in new team members the core values of teamwork and dedication. “I truly enjoy helping new employees become familiar with the system,” says Robert.

Robert’s wife, Jennel, who is also a Paramedic, is a source of deep inspiration for him at home and at work.

We are honored to nominate Greg Sorensen as a 2016 Star of Life for his dedication to EMS, as well as for his instruction of the art and science of prehospital medicine to numerous EMTs and Paramedics entering the field. His 32-year commitment to caring for his community is deeply commendable.

With a 10 year start in EMS, Greg began his career at Metro West Ambulance in June of 1999 and became a Field Training Officer in 2004. Greg also fills in as an Operations Supervisor, co-chairs the QI Committee, and is a member of the communication center’s QI Committee. Greg is an outstanding example of personal integrity, dedication, and compassion in EMS – qualities everyone strives for in their own EMS careers – and truly represents the gold standard of prehospital emergency care.

Greg works with various EMTs, Paramedics, and potential new hires on developing their skills in the field and teaches them the past, present, and future of EMS. Greg knows the future of EMS is built on teaching these individuals to be the best medical providers possible.

In his spare time, Greg helps facilitate volunteer projects for the needy in the community he lives in, and he helps facilitate yearly volunteer projects for Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.

These are but a few reasons why Greg Sorensen deserves the honor of being an American Ambulance Association 2016 Star of Life.