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Tag: MI

Aaron Wainwright

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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 Smith

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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 Rahilly

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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.

Christopher Paul

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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 Kidd

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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 Tank

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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.

Micheline Allaire Clement

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Micheline Allaire Clement continuously pursues the highest standards in patient care and is always an inspiration to her coworkers. She is known for her remarkable gift for making patients and their family members feel at ease, no matter the situation. She is a positive member of the air medical community and is always looking for solutions to the current challenges facing EMS. Micheline has an MS in Nursing. She also has also attained two advanced certifications; Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) and Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN).

Micheline’s EMS expertise became critical in a personal situation last summer while on a hike with her family. Her brother-in-law collapsed after suffering cardiac arrest. As the only medically trained person on the hike, Micheline performed CPR while others called for help. She continued administering CPR until first responders arrived and were able to get a return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Her brother-in-law had a potentially fatal dysrhythmia for which he now has a pacemaker. He has fully recovered from the incident that could have had a far different outcome had it not been for Micheline’s quick intervention.

 

Svenja Wahle

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Svenja Wahle has served with Huron Valley Ambulance since 2016. During her years at HVA, Svenja has worked her way up from an EMT to a Senior Paramedic. Svenja is known for always having a positive attitude and for continually thinking about ways to encourage growth in those around her. She is very creative and she enjoys teaching newly licensed personnel, regularly helping trainees to prepare for EMS clearance interviews.

In addition to her work as a Paramedic, Svenja has spent some time working in HVA’s 911 Communications Center. She is currently an HVA Field Training Officer and recently developed a comprehensive training program for new EMTs. Svenja also serves on internal committees for operational improvements, and is the Chair of the EHP Supply Group. Her positive outlook and dedication to training new employees have strengthened HVA and bolstered its ability to provide quality care to the communities.

Sean Stringham

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Sean Stringham has served with Monroe Community Ambulance since 2014. Sean began his career at MCA as an EMT. After obtaining his Paramedic license, Sean quickly worked his way up the ranks to a Senior Paramedic, and has also completed the training and certifications to work as a Community Paramedic and a Critical Care Paramedic. Sean’s most recent promotion was to MCA Team Leader, in which he serves as a role model, educator, and mentor to his coworkers. Sean has earned a tremendous amount of respect from his coworkers for his excellent patient care, selfless nature, and willingness to spend time helping his coworkers develop their skills.

Sean has been instrumental in identifying and developing needed programs at MCA, including the Critical Care Paramedicine and the Internal Quality Review programs. Most notably, Sean spearheaded the Quality Review program in a desire to help his coworkers grow their skills as EMS providers. He has spent a tremendous amount of his personal time reviewing calls with MCA employees and has incorporated local emergency medicine residents into this review process. His efforts have led to a successful program that allows EMTs and Paramedics to better understand and implement treatments, policies, and protocols.

Sean’s passion for EMS and his dedication to the success of his coworkers is a continual benefit to MCA and the community.

Jill Holmquest

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Jill Holmquest has served with Huron Valley Ambulance since 2014. Jill is known for being a compassionate and caring individual who gives 110% in all she does. Jill joined HVA as a Paramedic and has worked her way up to Senior Paramedic and Field Training Officer. She has become certified as a Critical Care Paramedic and a Community Paramedic, and serves on HVA’s National Response, Special Pathogens, and Hazardous Materials Response teams.

Jill’s time as a Field Training Officer has made her a pillar of HVA’s training program. She puts endless time and energy into helping EMS students and trainees. She has gone above and beyond to assist her peers before and after her shift and has dedicated much of her own time to creating programs and curriculums that allow her trainees to excel in their positions. Jill recognizes the value of a nurturing learning environment and ensures her students and trainees have the resources and welcoming space to craft their skills as EMS providers. Jill’s dedication to her students and trainees has developed them into outstanding clinical practitioners.

Jill is looked to as a leader both inside and outside of our organization. In addition to her training role at HVA, she has also taken a special interest in mentoring students from the University of Michigan EMS club and has frequently been a guest speaker at their monthly club meetings. Jill’s passion for EMS has led both of her sons to follow in her footsteps. Cody and Christopher also serve at HVA as a Senior Paramedic and an EMT, respectively.

Jill’s dedication to training the next generation of EMTs and Paramedics is remarkable and stands in direct opposition to the nationwide shortage of EMS providers in the nation. She is creating a bright future for both HVA and the field of EMS.

Chris Kapla

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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.

Matthew Hapner

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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.

Christopher Fouch

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

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.

Frank DeLaTorre

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Frank DeLaTorre is a committed mobile healthcare leader whose service in EMS spans three decades. During this time, Frank has worked tirelessly to ensure excellence in prehospital care for our communities.

Frank began his EMS career in 1990 as a volunteer for Coloma Emergency Ambulance Service (now known as Pride Care). Soon after, he earned an Associate in Science Degree from Southwestern Michigan College in 1991. Frank continued his education in an Emergency Medical Technician Specialist program, earning his license in 1992. In February 1992, Frank was hired by Southwestern Michigan Community Ambulance Service (SMCAS) as an Emergency Medical Technician Specialist.

Frank continued his educational journey when he began Paramedic school in the fall of 1992. In April 1993, Frank earned his Paramedic license in the State of Florida and his Michigan Paramedic license in May 1993. In November 2009, Frank received his Critical Care Paramedic certification. Frank was promoted to Shift Captain at SMCAS in April 2010.

On top of his EMS credentials, Frank also holds Michigan Firefighter 1 and 2 certifications, along with Fire Officer 1, 2, and 3 certifications. In addition to working full time for SMCAS, Frank has been employed by Van Buren County Emergency Medical Service (VBEMS) for 23 years, North Berrien Fire-Rescue for 18 years, and Niles City Fire Department for 6 years.

Frank is the SMCAS representative for the Berrien County Fire Chiefs Association. He currently chairs the Fire Chiefs Association Communications Committee that was formed as the Chiefs Association and Berrien County work on a grant to move Fire/EMS onto the state’s Michigan Public Safety Communications System (MPSCS) 800 radio system. Frank is the MABAS Division 3501 Plan Coordinator, a member of the Berrien County Firefighters Association, and serves as the Secretary for the North Berrien Firefighters Association. Frank is also one of the state trainers for the MPSCS 800 radio system and one of 18 communication technicians (COMT) in the state of Michigan.

Frank has spent time helping fire departments to create and update radio templates, along with programming 800 and VHF radios and pagers in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. Frank is also an instructor with the American Heart Association. In 2018, Frank helped to initiate a Fire Cadet Program at North Berrien Fire-Rescue.

Frank is very devoted to his family and enjoys spending time with his wife, three children, and two dogs. He also enjoys cheering for the Chicago Bears!
SMCAS is proud to recognize Frank DeLaTorre as a 2019 Star of Life.

Joe Weindorf

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Joe Weindorf joined the Emergent Health Partners Communications Center in October 2017. In the short time since, Joe has earned the respect and appreciation of his colleagues and has proven himself a capable leader.

Joe was instrumental in solving problems and maintaining operations during Emergent’s recent CAD system implementation. For example, Joe created “cheat sheets” to assist the team in adapting to new processes. These efforts smoothed the transition for all staff, ranging from the veterans with many years of dispatch experience to new hires. Joe’s contributions reduced stress and improved morale. When challenges arise, Joe always steps in to lend a hand to anyone who needs support.

In addition to his skills in the Communications Center, Joe is an EMT serving Emergent’s Monroe County Division.

Joe enjoys spending time outdoors and is thankful for Michigan’s four distinct seasons. Joe especially likes golfing, walking with his dog, and skiing.

Emergent Health Partners is proud to recognize Joe Weindorf as a 2019 Star of Life.

Gary Truitt

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

In Memory of Gary Truitt

Gary Truitt exemplifies what it means to be a Paramedic at Jackson Community Ambulance (JCA). Gary maintains a positive attitude and is always willing to help educate new employees and partners. No matter the day, Gary is ready to tackle any challenge that is presented to him.

Gary began his EMS career in 1984 as an EMT. Since then, he has provided mobile healthcare at several services, including Reading Ambulance, LifeCare Ambulance, the State of Michigan Department of Corrections, and now JCA. Gary retired from the Department of Corrections in 2009 and has been working full time with JCA since 2011. He is currently one of the South Central Region’s Field Training Officers as well as a volunteer firefighter for Moscow Township.

Gary’s integrity and passion for serving his community have elevated him to become one of the most respected Paramedics within JCA. He maintains a high level of professionalism and deep commitment to his patients, all while sharing his unique sense of humor with others.

When not serving his community, Gary loves riding his motorcycle. It is not unusual to see him riding to work even in inclement weather. Gary also enjoys the outdoors and is known to take his fifth wheel camper down South. Everyone also appreciates the fudge he brings to work every Christmas, all while he spends many hours volunteering during the holidays cooking for the less fortunate.

Trevor Harris

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Trevor Harris came to work at LifeCare Ambulance Service as a newly trained EMT in January of 2009. He performed very well on an ALS unit right up until a fateful morning. On September 1, 2010,Trevor was involved in a significant car crash on his way to work. He was severely injured and his return to the workforce was not a given. Trevor was finally able to return after eight months of healing and rehabilitation. Through perseverance and dedication, Trevor was able to adapt quickly into our dispatch center. His performance since the transition has been remarkable. Below are some excerpts from the three nominations received for Trevor Harris: “I would like to nominate Trevor Harris for the Star of Life. Trevor has overcome great obstacles in his personal life to get to the point he is at with this company. Trevor does an excellent job at dispatching and is a voice of calm and reason when it comes to the hectic dispatching and dealing with us road crews”. “I would like to nominate Trevor Harris for this honor. He is a very effective dispatcher who always keeps tension at a low key. He is a hero in our radio dispatch center in my opinion”. “Trevor always has a positive attitude, even when the system is slammed and he is getting phone calls with crews complaining. He watches out for the well-being of the crews and listens to their suggestions. He has been a great asset to the dispatch team”. Trevor and his wife Abby have four children ranging in ages from 5 to 10. LifeCare’s previous Stars of Life recipients chose our 2014 Star of Life honoree from the nominations received, and we are pleased that they have chosen Trevor as our 2014 Stars of Life.”