Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Amy Wollenburg, Paramedic, as a Star of Life. Amy joined Mayo Clinic Ambulance in 2007 and has taken on various roles such as Emergency Medical Dispatcher, Paramedic, Field Training Officer, Community Paramedic, Assistant Supervisor, and Instructor. She serves in both our Austin/Albert Lea locations and our Education Department.

Amy’s nomination for the Star of Life Award highlights her exceptional dedication to helping others, whether it’s restocking an ambulance, covering a shift, or providing support to colleagues after difficult calls. Her actions reflect a deep sense of compassion, which positively impacts the well-being and experiences of everyone she interacts with.

Amy holds a bachelor’s degree in paramedicine and a certificate in EMS administration. In her free time, she enjoys outdoor activities, attending sporting events for her niece and nephew, and participating in high-intensity fitness classes.

Amy expressed her gratitude for being nominated for the Star of Life Award by her colleagues, emphasizing the significance of the recognition, especially coming from a dedicated team in Austin and Albert Lea. She draws inspiration from the unwavering commitment and compassion of her colleagues and feels privileged to work alongside them.

Amy believes that the award not only acknowledges her efforts but also symbolizes the collective strength, support, and camaraderie among the team in Austin and Albert Lea. She is thankful to be part of this group and is committed to upholding the high standards set by the team in delivering care and service to their patients. Dan Anger, Director of Education and Training, describes Amy as a devoted and compassionate paramedic who consistently goes above and beyond. Her dedication to patient care, quick thinking during critical situations, and steadfast support for her colleagues distinguish her in the field. Amy’s tireless efforts to uphold our primary value of the needs of the patient come first, as well as her role as a mentor for all staff, make her a deserving recipient of the Star of Life Award.

For over 30 years, Stacy Omdahl has dedicated herself to serving the rural communities of Roseau County, Minnesota. She began her career in 1994 with the then volunteer Roseau Ambulance, now LifeCare EMS, following the encouragement of a friend. Throughout her career, Stacy has remained a steadfast and invaluable part of the organization, offering her expertise and guidance to countless staff members who have come and gone over the years. As a historical anchor for LifeCare EMS, Stacy has played a vital role in preserving the organization’s traditions while adapting to the ever-changing nature of the EMS profession.

When reflecting on her career, Stacy takes great pride in giving back to the community where she grew up. For her patients, the familiarity of a known and friendly face brings an added sense of comfort during difficult moments. Her deep connection to her community drives her commitment to providing exceptional care.

Stacy is highly respected by both her colleagues and the community she serves. A hospital staff member shared, “When Stacy is on, I feel things run smoothly and efficiently, and she always has a smile on her face. Her priority is the patient and what is best for them. She is well-liked and respected in the community and serves as a mentor to others.” Stacy’s presence at community events, either representing LifeCare EMS or with her family, highlights her deep involvement and dedication to the people of Roseau.

Beyond her contributions as a mentor and role model in EMS practice, Stacy also promotes responder wellness, often seen walking around the hospital and EMS campus, setting a positive example for her peers.

Throughout numerous changes in the organization, Stacy has been a steadying force, demonstrating professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to her patients and community. Her 30 years of service stand as a testament to her commitment, making her a cherished member of LifeCare EMS and a role model for all who work alongside her.

Royce Hsiung, EMT-IV Tech at Lakes Region EMS, has been a dedicated member of the organization since 2018, beginning as an EMT and advancing to the role of EMT Field Training Officer (FTO) in 2020. In addition to his EMS work, Royce has proudly served in the Army National Guard since 2012, bringing invaluable leadership and experience to both his military and EMS roles. Over the years, Royce has played a significant role in mentoring and educating new EMS professionals, occasionally serving as an orientation educator for new hires.

What truly sets Royce apart are the acts of kindness he performs outside of his typical EMS duties. Whether it’s shoveling a patient’s driveway or helping an elderly patient with groceries, Royce believes these compassionate acts are as important as providing medical care. In one memorable instance, he helped a patient clean her kitchen while his partner made her a sandwich. Her son later arrived, expressing deep gratitude, and the moment exemplified the quiet, meaningful impact Royce has on his community.

Royce has also been instrumental in the evolution of the FTO program at Lakes Region EMS. When he first became an FTO, the program was paper-based and lacked clear goals. Thanks to the collaboration between FTOs and the incorporation of feedback, the program has since transitioned to a digital system, making the experience more efficient for new hires. Royce takes pride in seeing former trainees rise to become FTOs themselves, recognizing this as one of the most rewarding aspects of his role.

Outside of his professional life, Royce leads an active lifestyle, enjoying gym workouts, running, and single-track trail riding. He and his wife play in two volleyball leagues, and he also enjoys disc golfing, amateur ball golfing, and camping with his family. A lifelong learner, Royce engages in various hobbies such as tying fishing flies, playing video games, and learning to cook. He also loves traveling with his wife and spending time outdoors.

Through his dedication to Lakes Region EMS, his military service, and his commitment to helping others, Royce Hsiung embodies the spirit of the Star of Life award. His compassionate approach and continuous drive for improvement make him an exemplary EMS professional.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Taylor Gibson, as a Star of Life.

Since joining in 2018, Taylor has excelled as an Assistant Supervisor and Emergency Medical Dispatcher in Emergency Communications. Colleagues praise Taylor’s exceptional performance. One coworker noted, “Taylor is a true asset to Emergency Communications. His work not only exceeds standards but also significantly impacts patients, providing unparalleled support and care.”

Taylor’s supervisor, Seth Whalen, commends his broad EMS knowledge and dedication: “Taylor often goes above and beyond expectations. He’s a tremendous asset to colleagues and patients alike. His unwavering commitment to positive outcomes for patients, telecommunicators, and EMS staff is evident in all he does. The joy and satisfaction he finds in his work are both apparent and refreshing.”

Outside of work, Taylor is married to Rebecca, a Mayo Clinic nurse. They have a son and two dogs, enjoying cooking and traveling together. Banff National Park, western Montana, and Maine hold special places in their hearts.

Taylor’s stellar performance and positive impact on colleagues and patients alike make him an exemplary choice for the Star of Life recognition.

Taylor has made a positive difference in the lives of many people, and he has earned the respect and admiration of his peers and supervisors. He is a valuable member of the EMS community, and he embodies the spirit and purpose of this award.

Brandon Trauba has been an incredible asset to Lakes Region EMS over the course of his career. Starting as an EMT in 2014, Brandon quickly progressed to Paramedic, Critical Care Paramedic, Supervisor, then on to Operations Manager today. Brandon continues to be an exemplary leader in his newest role; he asks difficult questions and is thoughtful but firm in how he deals with challenges. He shows great ownership and engagement in the organization and has a good practice of looking at things through both a leadership lens as well the lens of a field provider.

In his role as an Operations Manager, Brandon is the driving force behind many improvements within the organization. He leads the Field Training Officers group, mentoring new and experienced employees. He also guides new staff through orientation, readying them to serve the community on their own. Brandon also spearheaded the rollout of an entirely new narcotics process. He diligently gathered feedback from all staff, worked to understand the process, and then trained the team before launching the module.

In addition to his contributions to the communities of Lakes Region EMS, Brandon has been a member of the United States Reserves for the past 12 years. He has served our country on multiple deployments as a Flight Paramedic.

Outside of work, Brandon enjoys spending his time with his four-year-old daughter and wife, Justine. He also enjoys going to the family cabin in his spare time.

Lakes Region EMS is proud to recognize Brandon Trauba as a 2023 Star of Life.

Marcia Anderson has served as an outstanding medic, teacher, and mentor for her many years in EMS. No one has more dedication and passion for our profession than she.

Marcia has worked as a Paramedic for M Health Fairview for more than 30 years. During that time, she has held many roles and has had a positive impact on many people; Paramedic, FTO, FTEP Training Specialist, Educator, Mentor, and Wellness Advocate. Marcia is dedicated to bettering herself and our profession through educational opportunities, and as such she has earned numerous instructor certifications and attained the rank of Critical Care Paramedic, FP-C. Marcia has contributed to the development of EMS in Dakota County by providing extensive training to First Responders and the general public as well as building strong EMS professionals in her role as Educator with Century College Paramedic program.

Marcia is a strong promoter and advocate for better mental health and wellness for EMS professionals. As an active rider with the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride for several years, Marcia has peddled more than 1,000 miles, bringing awareness to the mental and physical strain mobile healthcare professionals take on, as well as memorializing those EMS professionals who left us too soon.

A top-tier EMS clinician, educator, mentor, and role model, Marcia epitomizes the spirit of the Star of Life.

The City of Cannon Falls Ambulance Service takes great pride in nominating Paramedic Brenda Voshalike as a 2022 Star of Life recipient.

Brenda has served the community as a Dispatcher, Police Reserve Officer, Emergency Medical Technician, Paramedic, and Educator. Brenda is now in her fifth decade of service to the Cannon Falls community.

Beginning as a Police Dispatcher in the 1970s, Brenda was encouraged to become an EMT with what was then a volunteer ambulance service. She eventually assumed a leadership role as the Ambulance Supervisor, and then Service Director, and assisted in transitioning the service to a combination career/volunteer model. After identifying a need for Advanced Life Support service in the community, Brenda earned her Paramedic certification, becoming the first Paramedic in Cannon Falls. When the concept of Community Paramedicine became a reality, Brenda was one the first to obtain the additional training and licensure.

Brenda has been, and continues to be, actively involved as an educator for both new EMTs and members of the community, teaching CPR and First Aid. Hundreds of students throughout the years have learned life changing and lifesaving skills from Brenda.

As part of the Minnesota EMS Honor Guard, Brenda provides a valuable service to her profession throughout the state. She offers support services for Line of Duty and Non-Line of Duty funerals, and honors those who have fallen in our challenging profession. All of the members, including Brenda, volunteer their time for the program.

While many of her peers might joke that her first charting system was on stone tablets, no one has provided more time contributing to EMS in the community. Brenda has averaged over 3,000 hours on the schedule per year. Although many of these hours are on duty hours for her full-time position, plenty are also from back up coverage, teaching, and public information events.

Brenda Voshalike is the very definition of service before self. Thousands of residents and visitors to the Cannon Falls community have been impacted by Brenda. Without any doubt, we are proud to call her a friend, a partner, and a Star of Life.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance is honored to be represented by Shelly Ziegler, Paramedic, as a Star of Life.

Shelly began her career with Mayo Clinic in 2008, initially as a Paramedic at Mayo Clinic Ambulance in Fairmont, MN, and now works in Mankato, MN. Shelly’s patient care skills and commitment are evident to all who work with her. She is also known for her compassion and ability to communicate with patients of all ages as well as their family members.

“Shelly is the consummate teammate who selflessly helps out not just with the Mankato team but with our other operations as well,” says Paul Drucker, Senior Director of Mayo Clinic Ambulance. In a nomination submission, one of Shelly’s colleagues notes a time when Shelly went above and beyond the call of duty to provide for the physical needs of the family of a patient on what was certainly their worst day. Shelly helped the family without seeking any acknowledgement and with her own funds, though not for the first or only time. Shelly’s colleague also remarked that Shelly is an admirable example of how to serve every day.

When asked to give her advice to new Paramedics and EMTs entering the field of EMS, Shelly explained, “Always be willing to help others and be there for coworkers. We have a special career, and we see and deal with a lot of things most people would never dream of doing. Sometimes we are the only ones that understand how each other feels. Be sensitive to that and always take care of your work family!”

Shelly is originally from Vernon Center, MN and received her Paramedic education at South Central College in Mankato, MN.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance is honored to be represented by Lisa Vogel, Education Instructor in Education and Training, as a 2022 Star of Life.

Lisa began her career at Mayo Clinic in 1988.

“Helping others has been my life’s work,” Lisa says. “The combination of continuous education, the use of the latest and greatest technology to improve care, and the commitment to ensure the needs of the patient come first, is what has always driven me. The compassion and dedication required to do the job right, and to be there when others are at their worst.”

Lisa consistently demonstrates the highest standards of the Mayo Clinic values—Respect, Integrity, Compassion, Healing, Teamwork, Innovation, Excellence, and Stewardship. In a Star of Life nomination form, a colleague wrote that Lisa “can be trusted with the most delicate information, whether it has to do with patient confidentiality, employment issues, or personal issues. She is someone you can openly discuss things with, and employees will often seek her out when they have had a stressful situation in their career or personal lives. She is always ready to listen, even when off-duty, and is a twenty-four-hour employee.”

In addition to her role at Mayo Clinic Ambulance, Lisa serves as Chief of Midway First Responders in Proctor, MN. She also works with the EMS Honor Flight program for veterans, and has coordinated an annual Thanksgiving Day meal at an arena in Duluth, MN for those in need, which has served many thousands of meals since 1991.

Whether Lisa is providing EMS education to colleagues, volunteering in nearby communities, leading a medical first responder unit, or directing the efforts of a meal for thousands, her one sole focus has always been helping people. To Lisa, “Making a difference in people’s lives is the most rewarding outcome there is.”

Allison Stout has been an incredible asset to Lakes Region EMS over the course of her ten-year career. Starting as an EMT, Allison advanced to become a Critical Care Paramedic, FTO, and, most recently, a QA Coordinator.

Allison has gone above and beyond, investing an incredible amount of time training and onboarding each employee. She has not only taught classes, but also has progressed our clinical education offerings by reviewing, adapting, and developing new courses. Allision’s contributions to further develop the organization’s clinical excellence are remarkable. She sets the tone and expectations for each new hire, embracing the clinical culture at Lakes Region EMS. She shows great ownership in the organization with each employee she has the opportunity to interact with.

Allison is also an accomplished artist. Prior to starting her career in EMS, she worked as a studio and commission artist. Making art and being creative is still a source of enjoyment, but has become more of a leisure activity in recent years. When Allison is not working, she enjoys spending time with her partner, Jon, and his son, Zander, as well as the rambunctious quadrupeds that live with them.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance is honored to be represented by Lyle Groves, Transport Nurse Manager, as a 2022 Star of Life.

Lyle began his career at Mayo Clinic in 1986 and has held a variety of roles throughout his tenure. He has never backed away from a challenge, which is what has always made Lyle such a key member of the team. Lyle’s first day as a nurse at Mayo was in the intensive care unit, and from that day forward he consistently looked for new things to learn and new ways to care for his patients.

“I take pride in meeting challenges head-on and finding solutions,” Lyle says. “I have never been one to say ‘that’s not my job;’ rather I look for ways to solve problems. For me, that approach is gratifying.”

Lyle’s colleagues describe him as one who is always willing to help and to reach out to others in need. He has the ability to recognize when a peer or patient is upset or struggling, and is ready to listen with calming compassion. Of his admirable attitude, Lyle says, “You have to approach your role with desire, ambition, find something that excites you and keeps you motivated. You also have to continue to learn, there is always something in health care to learn.”

Lyle is originally from Rice Lake, WI and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Viterbo University in La Crosse, WI.

TenaMarie Meyer joined Lakes Region EMS in 2000, working initially as an EMT Basic. Over the course of her 20+ year career, she went on to become a Paramedic, Critical Care Paramedic, and FTO. Tena has shown tremendous dedication to Lakes Region EMS by investing countless hours expanding the education opportunities, including teaching EMR and EMT, as well as new hire course(s) for onboarding and Essentials of Critical Care. Developing and teaching these courses put her as a constant presence for new employees, mentoring them as they begin their careers in EMS and within our organization.

Tena is passionate about improving patient care and provider knowledge through education and simulation. In her current role as the Manager of Clinical Services, Tena oversees clinical care and education, further advancing clinical offerings and education opportunities. Her pride and ownership show through all she does.

Outside of her work at Lakes Region EMS, Tena enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time with her husband and three boys at their cabin in northern Minnesota. Lakes Region EMS is proud to recognize TenaMarie as a 2022 Star of Life.

Lee Huber has more than 15 years of experience in public safety, including fire, law enforcement, and emergency medical services. Lee began his career working at a small rural ambulance service as an EMT-Intermediate and eventually became the department’s Director. He came to Lakes Region EMS as one of the Operations Managers, with the primary responsibility of leading a new management contract for a rural hospital-based ambulance service. Since taking on this role, Lee has led the service in an engaging and meaningful way, bringing employee engagement to an all-time high. He is dedicated to standing out as not only a manager for the contracted area, but also a leader who goes above and beyond when it comes to the success of Lakes Region EMS. 

Lee has been in his role at Lakes Region EMS for the past six years. During this time, he has been an overall sounding board for problem solving in areas throughout the operation. He also has utilized his previous leadership experience and his clinical knowledge to help facilitate multiple partnerships, such as with state representatives, and community programs, including EMR Medical Direction for multiple agencies and CPR class coordination with local programs. Lee’s dedication to Lakes Region EMS is steadfast and unyielding.

John Joswiak has 13 years of experience in emergency medical services, and has spent the last eight years with Lakes Region EMS. John started his career as an EMT-Basic, quickly moving to the position of Paramedic, for one of Minnesota’s leading ground Critical Care transport services. He is currently licensed and working in Minnesota and Wisconsin operations as a Critical Care Paramedic. John is well recognized as someone who will spend additional time on special projects, mentor new staff, and always go the extra mile for his patients and partners. He has also led our employee Adopt-a-Highway program over the past several years. Lakes Region EMS is proud to nominate John as a 2019 Star of Life.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service is proud to name Jeff Neve, Emergency Medical Technician, as a 2019 Star of Life. Jeff began working for Gold Cross Ambulance (now Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service) in Albert Lea, Minnesota, 19 years ago. As a lead Emergency Medical Technician, Jeff intermittently serves as the point of contact for several other Minnesota cities and facilitates staffing changes, transfers, and crew movement as needed.

Jeff’s colleagues describe him as a team player who is always willing to get involved and who leads by example. He fosters teamwork by stepping up and finding creative solutions for patient transport requests when the system is stressed and transport options are limited. He provides guidance for teammates when unique situations and challenges present, and he consistently works in a collaborative manner — not only within Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service, but also with referring agencies. Jeff’s supervisor remarks that he “welcomes new team members by showing kindness, and helping them learn geographic areas and their role in emergency medical services. He is quiet and calm in chaotic situations, which supports both responders on the scene, and patients.”

“What I like most about my job is helping people,” says Jeff. “Lots of times, patients are experiencing the worst thing they have ever been through, and it is nice to comfort them and get them through that difficult time.”

Outside of work, Jeff enjoys spending time with his family and attending his daughter’s volleyball and softball games. He also hosts an Austrian foreign exchange student, and enjoys going to his basketball games.

Of his job as an Emergency Medical Technician, Jeff says, “After 19 years, I still enjoy going to work, and look forward to it.”

Rose Pelzel has served as an EMT and Paramedic for Devine Redeemer and HealthEast Ambulance service for nearly 47 years, making her one of the longest serving street medics in the United States. Rose began her EMS career in 1972 by taking the Advanced First Aid class in South St. Paul, Minnesota. Rose was the only woman in the class and immediately faced challenges. Driven to help people, she was inspired by the Parable of the Good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Rose pressed forward. In 1974, Rose completed Paramedic school and helped form the first MICU team in the Upper Midwest.

Rose is a trusted colleague and a skilled professional. Her colleague wrote, “Early in my own Paramedic career, Rose was my mentor, exhibiting great passion for helping others, patients and coworkers, in need of her care.” She always exemplifies the good stewardship needed to carry on the HealthEast mission, “Optimal health and wellbeing for our patients, communities and ourselves.”

In the late 1980s, Rose joined one of the first Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) teams in the Upper Midwest. She was then able to bring her deep passion to care for people to other first responders that needed care of their own. Despite facing her own EMS burn-out at least three times in her career, Rose was able to find energy, drive, and inspiration to continue to “love” her career. Today, Rose has a calming and grounding effect on her team. Her sincere empathy and mission to find good in all people and situations, drives her to help people find and realize their potential.

Rose has served with great distinction in many roles; Crew Supervisor, Critical Care Paramedic, Field Training Officer, Preceptor, mentor, and friend. Rose has accumulated immeasurable experience that she shares with her colleagues as fuel for their growth and development. One of the most valuable pieces of advice she offers is to stay emotionally and mentally present when providing mobile healthcare. “Be with your patient. Treating your patient is not being with them. Find a way to connect and be with them,” she says. The energy and inspiration that Rose channels from these personal connections are what keep her fully engaged with her career.

Although she has already served 47 years as a full-time field provider in a high volume metropolitan area, Rose has no plan to retire. “If my EMS career did come to an end suddenly, I don’t have a need to do anything else,” she says with a huge smile, referring to a recent 911 request in Eagan, Minnesota. Rose and her partner, along with two Good Samaritans and a fire crew came to the aid of a drowning boy. Heroic efforts resuscitated the young boy. Joyous as it was to treat, save, and later meet their patient, Rose found the most meaning in her interaction with the child’s family. “The look on the father’s face when he shook my hand meant so much to me. It showed sincere appreciation and more importantly, deep connection,” she said.

Rose Pelzel has served her patients, colleagues, and community with outstanding care, respect and understanding for nearly five decades. She has truly earned her place as a 2019 Star of Life.

Brian Meyer is a star performer in the eyes of Lakes Region EMS. It is an honor to give this award to someone who has dedicated over two years of service to our organization with skill, determination, and leadership. Brian is one of our most dedicated and hardworking EMT’s at Lakes Region EMS. Brian is consistently showing through his actions and commitment to outstanding patient care and customer service why he is one of our top performers. He gives his all to his patients, co-workers, and to the community. He is well respected by staff and management and goes out of his way to help move our organization forward. His commitment doesn’t just stop after he punches off the clock. Brian is also involved with community programs and fundraisers such as Shop with a Cop and our Adopt a Highway sponsorship. He is an active member of the Lakes Region EMS Tactical team, headed by our local sheriff ‘s Office, and creates and teaches multiple EMS components to the other team members. Additionally, Brian teaches CPR and assists with several aspects of our EMR classes for the community and other local responders. Brian dedicates an enormous amount of time and energy to Lakes Region EMS, always picking up extra shifts when needed, and striving to be his best. Management and staff always know they can depend on Brian for anything. Brian’s partners are thrilled to be able to work alongside him and reinforced this message through the multiple nominations Brian received to earn him the Star award. Brian also had the honor this year of representing Lakes Region EMS at the Arrowhead EMS conference in Duluth, Minnesota. He was selected by the leadership staff to represent the organization as a result of his commitment of excellence in state-of-the-art patient care, his outstanding customer service, his dedication to the communities we serve, and his responsibility for the organizations financial health and wellbeing. Lakes Region is blessed to have such a competent, dedicated, and generous individual to represent our organization. He is deserving of the Stars of Life award and we are thrilled to honor him for all his years of service.”

Adam has been nominated for this award by multiple employees over the past two years. He’s a person who has always taken initiative to be a leader even before he held a leadership role within Lakes Region EMS. His dedication to his organization has continually proved this for over 16 years. Adam started out his career as an EMT and over the years has worked his way up to Paramedic, Field Lead, Supervisor, and most recently Ambulance Operations Manager. His willingness to learn and grow as a professional and his passion for the job has continued to show in his leadership. Adam also spends his time serving our local police force. He is the first and longest standing medic on the SWAT team and continues to play an essential role in sustaining the SWAT Medic program at Lakes Region. Despite this dedication and commitment, he continues to prove there is more room for growth as he is currently working to complete his BA in Organizational Leadership. He has long work days and late school nights, yet he still gives 100% to his job and the community. Adam maintains his dedication and outstanding commitment daily by always going the extra mile. He is responsible for the training and orientation of all new staff, vehicle maintenance and operational supplies, and equipment purchasing. He is willing to listen and problem solves, as well as finds creative solutions to day to day issues. Adam has the clinical expertise to excel as a Paramedic and the leadership knowledge to manage a team of people with integrity and professionalism. He does all this while maintaining a smile on his face making for an enjoyable working atmosphere. Adam has an infectious laugh that fills the office and a big heart that reaches many. Lakes Region wouldn’t be what it is today without having Adam as a member of its team. The Lakes Region EMS leadership and staff thanks him for all of the hard work and dedication that he has given to the organization, through his time and thoughtfulness, his leadership, and his ownership to the organization and the people working alongside him. Every member of the staff, from the executive leadership, to the clinical staff feels honored to have such a great leader and individual working by their side.”

Mayo Clinic Medical Transport is proud to select Tim Alden, RN, as a 2014 Star of Life.Tim has served as a flight nurse aboard Mayo One for more than seven years and has been a nurse for more than fifteen. Tim’s efforts to serve patients continue beyond his nursing career. Tim has been a volunteer EMT for Grand Meadow (Minn.) Ambulance Service, the community where he lives, for more than twenty years. This long-term commitment to EMS, both as a volunteer and a career, exemplifies his passion for patient care. Throughout Tim’s career as a nurse he has earned the trust of his patients, his peers and leadership. “Tim models the role of nurse as the patient advocate. We have received several testimonials from patients and family members that believe their life or family member’s life was saved because of Tim’s care,” wrote a colleague who nominated Tim for the Star of Life honor. The same colleague also wrote this of Tim, “Tim Alden’s performance as a flight nurse and the word excellence may very well be synonymous. Tim was one of the first flight nurses to obtain certification as a CFRN (certified flight registered nurse) and helped to inspire others to do so.” Perhaps the best example of Tim’s embodiment of excellence in EMS is his reputation. Tim comes to work ready to work. Anything requested of Tim will be done promptly and effectively. Tim has the respect of his peers, managers and colleagues. Patients who Tim has the privilege of caring for receive high-level compassionate and professional care.”

Gold Cross, the paramedic service of Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, is proud to honor Chris Roser as a 2018 Star of Life.

Chris began his career with Mayo Clinic in 1981. Hed says there is a simple reason he has dedicated nearly four decades to mobile healthcare, “I like helping people at a time when they need it the most.”

Chris has served patients in a variety of roles during his tenure. He has applied his training and skills as a flight paramedic on Mayo Clinic’s helicopter and airplane as well as his current role as a ground operations paramedic. While Chris says he recalls many highlights as he reflects on his career, one special period of time was when he had the opportunity to work alongside his son on calls as paramedics together.

When he’s not working, Chris enjoys water-skiing and has been on a competitive ski team since 1995. He also enjoys playing hockey, traveling with his wife, and spending time with his three sons and their families.

A colleague wrote this in support of nominating Chris for the Stars of Life award, “Chris has all of the qualities and values that Mayo Clinic appreciates. He is respectful, caring, and has a positive effect on everyone he comes in contact with—patients, emergency services colleagues, and coworkers. He is just the kind of person that a new employee can learn so much from.”

Chris’ advice for the next generation of paramedics coming into the workforce is to, “do your best, be kind, and treat patients like you would want your family member treated.”