Maurice Matthews is being honored by Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Michigan for his outstanding contributions to the EMS profession over 46 years of dedicated service. Maurice has continuously served the Metro Detroit area since launching his career in 1978. He began as an Ambulance Attendant, then became an EMT in 1979, a Paramedic in 1986, and a Critical Care Paramedic in 2007. In 2021, Superior was fortunate to have Maurice join the team, where he continues to provide exceptional patient care.

Maurice is known not only for his clinical expertise but also for his role as an exceptional mentor and co-worker. Throughout his career, he has cared for thousands of sick and injured patients and has trained dozens of Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics. When asked what he enjoys most about the EMS profession, Maurice said he values every aspect of the job—from patient care to taking pride in the rig and training new personnel.

Outside of EMS, Maurice enjoys hunting and spending time with his wife and three children. Superior is proud to honor Maurice Matthews as our 2024 Star of Life.

Lori Peterson, a Paramedic and Field Training Officer at Medstar Ambulance, is recognized by her peers for her exceptional dedication to patient care and unwavering support for her colleagues. Known for treating every patient as if they were a member of her own family, Lori’s compassionate approach is a hallmark of her work.

In addition to providing top-notch care, Lori serves as a valuable resource for both new and experienced EMS personnel, as well as local first responders and hospital staff. Her knowledge and willingness to share her expertise make her an integral part of the team. Lori is always there to lend a hand, whether someone is facing personal or professional challenges, and she consistently brings a positive, caring attitude to every shift.

Lori’s exemplary behavior and willingness to go above and beyond for her patients and colleagues have earned her the respect and admiration of all who work with her. Medstar Ambulance is proud to nominate Lori Peterson as a 2024 Star of Life, recognizing her outstanding contributions to EMS and her community.

Kylend Hetherington of Medstar Ambulance was nominated by his peers as a Star of Life for his persistent positivity, dedication to patient care, and unwavering willingness to assist with anything asked of him. Known for his sharp uniform and kind-hearted approach, Kylend consistently prioritizes the needs of his patients, ensuring they receive the best care possible.

Kylend’s commitment to growth is evident in his eagerness to learn new skills, procedures, and clinical information, always striving to enhance the care he provides. He conducts himself with the utmost professionalism, whether interacting with team members, other EMS agencies, hospitals, or, most importantly, the patients he serves.

Kylend’s positive attitude and dedication to both his patients and colleagues make him a standout EMT, and Medstar Ambulance is proud to have him on the team.

Throughout his 35-year career at Jackson Community Ambulance, Wayne Gooding has made significant contributions to the field of EMS, particularly through his leadership in developing Jackson Community Ambulance’s Community Paramedic program. Wayne has served as a Community Paramedic since 2016, when the role was first introduced. His extensive and well-rounded service in EMS reflects a deep commitment to both emergency medical services and public health.

In addition to his role as a Community Paramedic, Wayne has served as a Supervisor, Critical Care Paramedic, and Field Training Officer. Wayne also developed JCA’s Bike Response Team for special event support and is a seasoned team leader for our National Response Team. He has been deployed several times, including responding to Hurricane Katrina and the 9/11 World Trade Center attack.

Wayne is a vital part of the JCA team, and his years of service have made impacts far beyond immediate patient care, improving the core health of the community. Thank you for all you do, Wayne! We are proud to have you on our team.

With over 45 years of dedicated public service, Steve Jaskot has made a lasting impact in the field of emergency medical services. As a full-time Community Paramedic with Jackson Community Ambulance, he plays a vital role in post-acute care, providing crucial patient follow-ups. Steve’s approachable nature and sense of humor allow him to connect effectively with challenging patient populations, fostering trust and improving care outcomes.

Steve holds a paramedic instructor-coordinator license, underscoring his expertise in both training and mentorship. Beyond EMS, he has undergone extensive training in firefighting and reserve police services, proudly serving in these roles for more than four decades. A versatile and skilled professional, Steve is an active member of Jackson Community Ambulance’s Hazmat Team and National Response Team and is currently deployed to regions impacted by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.

In addition to his daily responsibilities, Steve serves as a seasoned leader at large-scale events, including NASCAR races at Michigan International Speedway and the Faster Horses music festival, where his experience and leadership are invaluable. Throughout Steve’s career, he has served as a Station Coordinator, Supervisor, and Hazmat Team member with an Advance Hazmat Life Support certification.

Thank you for all you do, Steve. Your service has made a lasting impact on the patients you serve and on the future of EMS. We are proud to have you on the JCA team!

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 has served his community on the Huron Valley Ambulance team since 2016. Chris is considered to be a “unicorn” in EMS as he thrives as a Paramedic in an emergency setting, as well as when acting as a Community Paramedic or Critical Care Paramedic. In a single shift, he may be resuscitating a cardiac arrest, transferring a critically ill patient to a tertiary care center, then providing in-home care to a chronically ill individual.

In addition to his clinical skills, Chris is known for his kind and compassionate personality, which has earned him a reputation among patients and coworkers alike. He consistently goes above and beyond for his patients. Whether it’s a witty joke to lighten the mood or taking the time to educate patients about their conditions, Chris always works in his patients’ best interest. Chris is also known amongst his coworkers as someone who cares about teaching everyone he works with the tangible skills necessary to become a good medic. 

His colleagues note that Chris is very knowledgeable and is the best example of what a Paramedic should be.

We are fortunate to have Chris on our team, as he is an excellent example of how to serve as a patient-centered paramedic. Thank you for all you do, Chris; we’re proud to recognize you as a Star of Life!

Emily joined LifeCare Ambulance in 2010 and, since that time, has made a significant positive impact on our organization.

In addition to her roles as a Senior Paramedic and part-time Road Supervisor, she also acts as a Field Training Officer ensuring new employees are equipped with the skills they need to be quality EMS providers.

Emily is known amongst her coworkers for having an infectious positive attitude. She dedicates her time to training others, improving working conditions, and building morale. Emily is also a strong patient advocate. She speaks to her patients and their family members with empathy. She provides skilled, quality care to community members in every encounter.

Recently, Emily has further increased her involvement in Emergent Health Partners / LifeCare Ambulance. For instance, she is currently enrolled in the EMS Instructor-Coordinator class. She was recognized by the Michigan Department of Health & Services for excellence in EMS and outstanding service. Her positive attitude is infectious to both her colleagues and co-responding departments.

Thank you for all you do for your coworkers, patients, and community, Emily! LifeCare Ambulance is proud to recognize you as a Star of Life.

Colin Driscoll is a Paramedic and field training officer in our Central Operations. Colleagues wrote in his Stars of Life nomination that, “Colin is always going above and beyond for his patients. He does it with every single patient, making sure that all of their clinical care is the best, their social and personal needs are met, and that they are getting the best help they can. He takes extra time to answer questions during and after the call about how things work with his partners. Whether it’s a question about a clinical condition or about protocols, his knowledge is always spot on and he’s always super helpful. He spends extra time with patients and their families at the hospital, helping with the transition of care and making sure they know what’s happening.”

Central Operations Manager Alex Barczak added, “I’m not surprised to see Colin being recognized by his peers. He is a skilled Paramedic and does all that he can to make sure his patients receive the best care. He puts the same effort into training the EMTs that are assigned to him, setting a great example for them and demonstrating the core values of our organization.”

When asked about being selected by his peers as a Star of Life, Colin said, “I appreciate my coworkers who voted for me to be here. EMS is a challenging career that requires dedicated providers. I’m just happy to have helped patients, trained new providers, and made a difference where I could.”

Outside of work, Colin enjoys spending time with family and cross-country running.

Haley Chapko is a Paramedic and field training officer in MedStar’s North Operations.

Haley is a very hardworking member of the Medstar team. She puts in extra hours to help out with staffing levels, and always engages with her patients and their family members. Haley invests time in training colleagues by reviewing skills, running through scenarios, and just providing general advice. A colleague noted, “Haley is an all-around amazing provider and the first call I would make if my family member needed to be transported.”

North Operations Manager Jeremy Compau said, “I’m proud to work with Haley, and glad that she is part of our team. She is very deserving of recognition. She has endless energy for her patients and her partners. She is ready, willing, and able to help out with special projects in our service area. Her compassion, commitment, and dedication are inspiring.”

On being selected, Haley said, “I feel extremely honored. I am emotional about being nominated as a Star of Life, let alone being elected by my peers. I have been in the EMS field for 10 years, starting at my hometown ambulance service, then to another Genesee County agency, and came to Medstar six years ago. Here, I have grown to become a Paramedic, then a Field Training Officer, and am now the FTO coordinator. We have a great leadership and support staff with phenomenal clinicians, I feel privileged to be a part of the team.”

Away from work, Haley enjoys reading, music, arcades, fishing, and spending time with family, friends, and her two dogs.

Paul began his career in EMS with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Michigan, Inc. in 2009. He currently serves as a Station Manager within the Michigan leadership team.

Paul began his career as a Paramedic. He became a part of the Critical Care Team in 2010 and started on the flight team in 2012. He was Board Certified as a Flight Paramedic in 2013. Paul spent seven years on the rotor service and one year on fixed wing service, prior to his promotion to Warren Station Manager.

Paul has contributed greatly during his time at Superior. As a Station Manager, Paul was instrumental in fostering a strong working relationship with Superior’s NICU team partners. He worked to equip more ambulances across the Michigan fleet to accommodate NICU/PICU patients. He also provided outreach to the NICU departments, giving them training and guidance on transport-related concerns. Another area Paul has contributed to is the mentorship of the station manager group. Paul has personally taken on the responsibility of mentoring and guiding fellow station managers to help them excel.  

Additionally, Paul consistently provides oversight and coordination for staff training. He has both developed and coordinated Superior’s compliance and skills training for staff, with a high rate of success. Paul is an active American Heart Association instructor within Superior. Not only does he teach courses for the staff, but he also provides instruction for the residency program at Beaumont Hospital-Farmington Hills where he teaches resident physicians CPR and ACLS.  

Paul has been a part of the US Department of Health and Human Services National Disaster Medical System since 2013 and has worked with several other Michigan providers and providers from other states on his deployments over the years. He considers his time deployed in service to disaster zones across the country and participating in national security special events as very rewarding.

During Paul’s free time, he enjoys boating, snowboarding, mountain biking, camping, and CrossFit with his friends and family.

We are proud to call Paul Tank one of our own and recognize him as a 2023 Star of Life.