Matthew Lonon is a Flight Paramedic with Med-Trans Corp/Regional One in Spartanburg, South Carolina, whose clinical judgment and lifesaving critical care made a profound difference for a critically injured child.

Matthew responded as part of the flight crew caring for a child who had been struck by a vehicle and sustained a traumatic brain injury, multiple fractures, and severe lacerations. Recognizing the severity of the child’s injuries and the urgent need for definitive care, Matthew and his crew made the critical decision to “load and go.”

Rather than delay transport to perform extensive stabilization on scene, the team rapidly loaded the young patient into the aircraft and departed for the receiving facility. Once airborne, Matthew and his team delivered advanced critical care throughout the flight, providing the interventions the child needed while moving quickly toward definitive treatment.

The response demonstrated the importance of sound clinical judgment in critical care transport. Faced with a severely injured pediatric patient, Matthew and his crew balanced the need for immediate medical intervention with the urgency of reaching a higher level of care. Their ability to make that decision quickly and provide advanced treatment during transport proved pivotal to the child’s survival.

The impact of their care continues to resonate with the patient’s family. Today, they credit Matthew and his crew with helping give their loved one the opportunity to celebrate another birthday—a powerful reminder of the lasting difference EMS professionals can make in a single critical moment.

Matthew’s clinical skill, decisive action, and commitment to his patient exemplify the very best of critical care transport. MTC/Regional One is proud to recognize Flight Paramedic Matthew Lonon as a Star of Life.

For more than 20 years, Dustin “Dusty” Edwards has helped ensure that Medic’s clinicians have the equipment, supplies, and support they need to care for the community. Dusty began his EMS career after earning his EMT certification while considering a career in law enforcement. A ride-along with Medic changed his course, and he joined the organization in Logistics before transitioning to the field as an EMT-B. After approximately five years, Dusty returned to Logistics, where he advanced from Lead to Supervisor and, in 2022, to Logistics Manager. Today, he leads a 30-person team whose behind-the-scenes work is essential to every ambulance response.

Throughout his leadership career, Dusty has focused on making Medic more efficient, prepared, and responsive to the needs of its frontline clinicians. He co-led the implementation of Operative IQ to digitize and automate ambulance recovery and inventory processes, improved the availability of triage kits, streamlined narcotics stocking and inventory, and led a comprehensive evaluation of ambulance stock based on usage and provider feedback. He has also championed equipment and operational improvements designed to reduce burdens on field crews and help them remain focused on patient care.

Dusty’s leadership proved especially valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Logistics faced significant staffing and supply-chain challenges. He developed staffing strategies based on workload and peak demand while strengthening emergency stock practices and vendor relationships. Those improvements helped create a more resilient supply system that has continued to serve Medic during subsequent disruptions, including Hurricane Helene.

Despite his many accomplishments, Dusty is far more likely to celebrate his team’s success than take credit himself. Colleagues describe him as a servant leader who leads with kindness, humility, purpose, and humor. His approach reflects an understanding that supporting the people on the front lines ultimately means supporting every patient they serve.

Through his leadership, innovation, and more than two decades of dedication, Dusty has strengthened the systems and people that keep Medic prepared to answer the call. Medic is proud to recognize Dustin “Dusty” Edwards as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Gregory “Wrangler” Brooks began his career with MedEx Medical Transport in 2012. Over the past decade, he has held numerous roles at MedEx, beginning with a position in the Billing Department and later serving as Director of Communications before becoming Chief Logistics Officer. Along the way, Wrangler became a Certified Ambulance Coder (CAC) and obtained his NCOEMS EMT Certification, giving him a broad understanding of the clinical, operational, and administrative sides of the medical transportation industry. Throughout every stage of his career, he has distinguished himself through his loyalty, dependability, leadership, and unwavering commitment to his colleagues and the organization.

Today, Wrangler is at the center of MedEx’s daily operations, managing the schedules of more than 450 employees and more than 100 units across three states. He serves as a critical link among EMTs, Paramedics, Field Managers, and Dispatch, helping keep hundreds of employees and multiple operations moving in the same direction. When staffing challenges arise, Wrangler is often the person others turn to. He remains calm under pressure, quickly assesses the situation, and works tirelessly to find a solution.

His contributions extend well beyond scheduling. Wrangler plays an important role in building the future of the MedEx team by reviewing applications, coordinating interviews with Field Managers, and partnering with Human Resources throughout the onboarding process. He also works closely with the MedEx COO and CEO, providing valuable operational insight and helping maintain clear communication across the organization.

Wrangler’s leadership has been particularly evident during times of crisis. When COVID-19 struck in 2020, he helped keep MedEx operations moving by coordinating employee schedules through an unprecedented and constantly changing situation. He has also coordinated numerous natural-disaster strike teams in partnership with NCOEMS and FEMA, helping ensure that resources and personnel were where they were needed most.

Before beginning his career at MedEx, Wrangler attended Chowan University in North Carolina, where he graduated cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree in History. Also, he was a four-year starter and letterman on the university’s golf team. His passion for both has remained a part of his life and he enjoys sharing those interests with others and building relationships with his colleagues.

Wrangler is also a devoted husband and father of two. The same loyalty, responsibility, and commitment that define his professional life are reflected in the importance he places on his family and the people closest to him.

MedEx Medical Transport is proud to recognize Gregory “Wrangler” Brooks as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Rachel Borsich began her career with Medic in 2019 as a Quality Improvement Analyst and has since advanced through several leadership roles, including Quality Improvement Team Lead and her current position as Quality Improvement Supervisor. Through her work, Rachel has helped transform how Medic uses data to evaluate performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and make informed decisions that strengthen patient care and operations.

One of Rachel’s most significant accomplishments was leading Medic’s transition to Tableau, revolutionizing the agency’s approach to data analytics by making complex information more accessible, understandable, and actionable throughout the organization. Her expertise has also contributed to several major agency initiatives, including the ImageTrend implementation, the BLS Field Training Officer project, and Medic’s Leadership and Culture project.

Rachel’s commitment to EMS extends well beyond her quality improvement responsibilities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she chose to earn her EMT certification so she could help support ambulance unit hours while gaining a deeper understanding of the work performed by Medic’s frontline providers. Since 2021, Rachel has continued practicing as an EMT alongside her quality improvement role. That firsthand experience gives her a valuable perspective, connecting the data she analyzes with the realities faced by providers and patients in the field.

Rachel’s contributions have earned recognition both within Medic and across the EMS profession. She was named Medic’s Unsung Hero in 2022 and received an AIMHI Excellence in Value Demonstration or Research Award for her role in Medic’s Response Configuration initiative. She also serves on Medic’s Community Engagement Team, helping strengthen the connection between the agency and the community it serves.

Through her creativity, adaptability, leadership, and commitment to service, Rachel demonstrates that advancing EMS takes many forms. Her ability to combine data-driven improvement with firsthand operational experience has strengthened her organization and contributed to better-informed decisions for the providers and patients Medic serves.

Medic is proud to recognize Rachel Borsich as 2026 Star of Life.

Kyle Sheehan began his EMS career in Cleveland, Ohio, in 2004, working as an EMT for Advanced Ambulance. After earning his Paramedic certification through Cuyahoga Community College, he continued developing his clinical experience in the Emergency Department at Lutheran Hospital and providing event medicine through Cleveland Clinic. Kyle joined Medic in 2009 and has since served as a Paramedic, Field Training Officer, and member of Medic’s Special Events team.

Throughout his career, Kyle has distinguished himself through exceptional patient care, clinical skill, and a calm presence that inspires confidence in patients and colleagues alike. Among Kyle’s clinical accomplishments are 39 ROSC pins, recognizing successful cardiac arrest resuscitations.

Kyle’s impact is equally evident in the clinicians he mentors. Becoming a Field Training Officer is among his proudest accomplishments, and he approaches the role with the same compassion and professionalism he brings to patient care. Kyle challenges others to become better clinicians without making them feel diminished, generously investing his time, experience, and knowledge in developing the next generation of Paramedics.

Kyle does not seek recognition for his accomplishments. Instead, he consistently shows up ready to serve his patients, support his colleagues, and strengthen his team. Medic is proud to recognize Kyle Sheehan as a Star of Life for his outstanding clinical care, dedication to mentorship, and lasting impact on his patients, colleagues, and community.

Tim has spent countless hours making other employees’ jobs easier and ensuring that all areas of the Agency are taken care of. He consistently goes above and beyond.

Communications supervisor may not be a very visible, upfront job, but it truly is the backbone of our operation. Tim works hard in the background to make sure all aspects of Communications are functioning at full capacity. Tim maintains multiple systems to include CAD and CAD to SIREN, and helps develop ways to make documentation and data collection easier.

Tim has just completed his year as RCC (Radio Communications Council) chairperson for the local Charlotte P25 Radio System while also attending CAD Administrator training. He has been a liaison to our County Fire departments and County First Responder agencies, and he’s active in the County Fire Association meetings as well as with providing radio and pager assistance to the departments.

Tim often assists at the MOC (Mobile Operations Center) during special events such as Panther’s Games, Speed Street, or New Year’s Eve, using his COM-L (COM Lead) or COM-T (COM-Tech) as support roles for Communications/ICS functions. He also leads the distribution of Medic’s new portable radios and additional mobile radios.

Tim is a stellar MEDIC employee—consistently kind, compassionate, and eager to  help wherever he’s needed. During many night shifts, crews have reported issues, knowing that whatever the hour, Tim would provide assistance. Tim will go the extra mile to help everyone he meets and is genuine in all that he does. You can see his dedication to his family, friends, and this Agency in his every action.

Parker Wallace began his EMS career at Mecklenburg EMS Agency (MEDIC) in 2017 as an EMT and quickly advanced through the roles of Paramedic and Paramedic Crew Chief before earning his current position as a Field Training Officer.  Parker is an adjunct instructor for Atrium Health’s Center for Prehospital Medicine, helping prepare the next generation of EMS professionals with the same dedication and professionalism that define his own career. He also serves on MEDIC’s Special Events Team and Competition Team, where he continues to demonstrate his clinical excellence and leadership.

As a Field Training Officer, Parker sets high standards of care while supporting new hires with patience, compassion, and encouragement. Colleagues describe him as someone who “meets new hires where they are, diligently working to help them become competent EMTs.” His ability to remain calm and reassuring during even the most
critical calls has earned him the deep respect of partners and students alike. Known for inspiring others through his actions, Parker is celebrated as both an outstanding instructor and a shining example of what an excellent Paramedic should be.

Mecklenburg EMS Agency is proud to honor Parker Wallace as a 2025 Star of Life.

Christopher Jerrell began his EMS career in 2015 at Union Emergency Medical Services, where he built a strong foundation as an Emergency Medical Technician. Guided by the mentorship of seasoned providers, he advanced to the role of Basic Life Support Field Training Officer and soon pursued Paramedic training. After earning both his state and national Paramedic credentials, Christopher joined Mecklenburg EMS Agency (MEDIC) in 2017. There, he discovered a passion for progressive, high-performance EMS and quickly advanced through roles including Paramedic Non-Crew Chief, Paramedic Crew Chief, and Field Training Officer before stepping into his current position as Assistant Operations Supervisor.

Two standout accomplishments reflect Christopher’s dedication to both patient care and mentoring: every new hire employee and Paramedic trainee he has guided has achieved a 100% first attempt pass rate on all required evaluations, and from 2017 through 2024, he achieved return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) on 33 patients. He also served as a Team Lead Administrator for MEDIC’s COVID-19 vaccine clinic, where his leadership helped ensure zero vaccine waste, and has represented the agency in community programs such as the launch of the PulsePoint Respond App and the Keep the Beat initiative to promote bystander CPR. In addition, Christopher serves on MEDIC’s dignitary protection team, providing medical coverage for high- profile officials and events.

Beyond his professional achievements, Christopher has a passion for travel and personal growth. He has set two lifelong goals: to visit all 50 U.S. states and to experience every continent in the world. His commitment to service, leadership, and excellence in patient care embodies the spirit of EMS and continues to inspire those around him.

Mecklenburg EMS Agency is proud to honor Christopher Jerrell as a 2025 Star of Life.

Scott Bodien has dedicated his career to using mapping technology to make communities safer and stronger. His expertise in geographic information systems (GIS)
first brought him to Charlotte in 2003, where he spent eight years with the Catawba Lands Conservancy, using GIS to protect lands in the urban footprint. He began his public safety GIS work in 2011 as an analyst with the Charlotte Fire Department, where he gained valuable experience with the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system used by multiple agencies. In 2014, he joined Mecklenburg EMS Agency (MEDIC) as a GIS Analyst and quickly became an indispensable part of the organization.

Since then, Scott has led transformative improvements to MEDIC’s mapping and dispatch systems. He revamped MEDIC’s centerline to align with the county’s roadway network, enhancing directionals and accuracy. He successfully integrated all adjacent county centerlines into a routable network, hand-drawing more than 850 miles of private driveways to ensure responders could locate even the most remote addresses. In 2016, he pioneered the integration of address points into MEDIC’s CAD system, significantly improving response times and accuracy. He has also developed automated tools to analyze transport routes and billing data, ensuring accuracy and accountability in thousands of weekly transports.

Scott’s expertise is recognized not only within MEDIC but also across regional public safety agencies, where he is viewed as a leading authority on GIS quality and design. His colleagues honored him with MEDIC’s Unsung Hero Award for his behind-the-scenes innovations that directly enhance emergency response and patient care. Beyond his professional role, Scott is a proud 30-year cancer survivor, serves as a Cub Scout den leader for his son’s pack and volunteers as a leader in the regional GIS users group. Known for his humility, service, and relentless pursuit of excellence, Scott embodies the very spirit of behind-the-scenes EMS.

Mecklenburg EMS Agency is proud to honor Scott Bodien as a 2025 Star of Life.

Shelly Miller has been a dedicated member of Mecklenburg EMS Agency (Medic) for 12 years, excelling in various roles throughout her tenure. She was instrumental in the successful transition to an in-house billing department, which has become known for its excellent and compassionate customer service. In 2023, Shelly was nominated as a member of the American Ambulance Association Cost Data Collection Education Faculty, where she led educational sessions at regional EMS conferences across the country, helping EMS agencies navigate key challenges.

Shelly’s contributions to the EMS field were further recognized when she received the prestigious AAA Distinguished Service Award, highlighting her invaluable impact on both Medic and the EMS profession nationwide. Her dedication, expertise, and leadership make her an integral part of the EMS community.

A senseless, tragic police-involved shooting incident in Charlotte, North Carolina in April of this year sent shockwaves across the country and especially in the public safety community. Eight law enforcement officers were injured during this act, four of whom lost their lives in the line of duty. Ryan, despite personal risk to himself, provided life-saving care as a member of Medic’s Special Operations tactical paramedic team. Though this is what this team is trained for, this situation was incredibly complex. Ryan exemplified the vital role EMS plays in protecting our community every day amid extraordinary circumstances. Ryan also received Medic’s most prestigious award, the Medal of Valor, for his actions that day and continues to serve as a Field Training Officer and Paramedic Crew Chief.

Heather Teague has served her community for 26 years. She comes from a proud legacy of public safety as caring for fellow citizens was passed down from her father, a retired firefighter. It is clear that Heather learned from the best as she is now the most sought-after Paramedic Preceptor at Medic.

Heather is known for her knowledge and scene management skills in the field. Her nominations from co-workers describe Heather as, “approachable even on the worst days, caring, and the one that you want taking care of your loved ones.” This trust in her skill and empathy is one of the highest honors an EMS professional can have.

Mecklenburg EMS Agency is proud to recognize Heather as a 2024 Star of Life.

Since Nicole Tyson’s first day at Medic in 2011, she has consistently performed vitally important duties in support of Medic’s revenue cycle with excellent attention to detail and diligence.

Her colleagues rave that “Nicole is a leader within the department and an exemplary employee. She helps guide and support her co-workers and advocates for patients.”

Nicole is responsible for enrollment and billing compliance with governmental payors, which include critical processes that allow the Agency to meet its mission. Nicole executes her duties all behind the scenes with little recognition.

During her tenure, Nicole was a key part in 2011 when Medic successfully brought Medic’s billing department in-house. Her work was also critical for enhancements to Medic’s online patient portal.

Nicole has always had a sincere desire to help others and was drawn to the healthcare field, and though not on the front lines she still finds ways to make a difference every opportunity she gets. Nicole is from Stanley, NC and has lived in the Charlotte area for over 30 years. She enjoys volunteering with youth groups, church, camping, fishing, and beekeeping.

Medic is proud to honor Nicole Tyson as a 2023 Star of Life.

Andrew “Drew” Smith began his career at Medic in 2003 and is currently an Operations Supervisor. Drew is best known as an employee advocate and mentor, which has been proven invaluable over the last two decades.

Drew has spearheaded the Crew Chief promotional process for the last seven years, contributing to the advancement and growth of employees as they transition into their own leadership positions.

Drew’s nominations also highlight his exceptional level of selflessness, kindness, professionalism, and a sense of calm during times of difficulty. Drew’s colleague noted, “When there were times that I thought I couldn’t do my job anymore, he was always there to remind me that he supported and believed in me.”

Drew is originally from Missoula, Montana, and has called the Charlotte area home for the last 20 years. Drew has always loved working in public service, first being inspired to work in EMS after taking an EMT class to aid in helping elderly clients at one of his first jobs. He was hooked ever since.

Drew is an avid Seattle sports fan and most loves spending time with his family. Medic is proud to honor Drew Smith as a 2023 Star of Life.

Throughout her 24 years of service at Medic, Beth has been known to be dedicated to Medic’s mission. She is a passionate educator and an advocate for improvement.

In addition to her roles as Paramedic Crew Chief, Field Training Officer, and Driver’s Instructor, Beth is also invested in the future of both Medic and EMS as an industry by participating in over 20 improvement project teams.

Beth cites mentoring as one of her proudest experiences at Medic, such as her time as a field training officer to new EMTs and Paramedics, many of whom are now doctors and physician associates and still refer to her as “Mama Beth.” Beth also participated in Medic’s COVID-19 vaccination clinic and was an instructor for Medic’s first in-house EMT credentialing program.

Beth’s colleagues note that she is, “a true example of professionalism. Beth’s dedication to patient and employee advocacy is unmatched in the agency.” Her nominations highlight her goodwill, sense of honor in the workplace, strong character, accountability, and an innate desire to excel.

During her off-time, Beth enjoys volunteering for various charities and elementary schools, traveling, doing anything outdoors, and visiting with family. She was inspired to work at EMS due to the incredible healthcare professionals who cared for her grandparents, including a Medic crew. Medic is honored to celebrate Beth as a 2023 Star of Life.

Rebecca Zamagni-Mander began her career in June of 2005 and has excelled professionally as a Telecommunicator, a Controller, a Communications Training Officer (CTO), an Assistant Communications Supervisor, and now as a Communications Operations Supervisor.

Rebecca has handled the scheduling of candidates for critical testing, scheduling of and facilitation of panel interviews, scoring of new candidates, decision making for conditional offers of employment, and the conducting of reference checks of candidates for hire. She also successfully completed the PSAP Managers Course offered by the NC 911 Board, as well as her ED-QI (Emergency Dispatch-Quality Improvement) in order to learn more about how to develop CMED employees.

Another of Rebecca’s strengths includes her ability to ensure employee success. She has an open and transparent dialogue, which the CMED employees all appreciate. They also admire her ability to listen to them, whether about professional or personal matters. She seeks to understand and gives trusted advice. Rebecca always manages to foster positive discussions and to bring out the best in all employees.

Rebecca is wholeheartedly dedicated to this community and the citizens we serve. She is truly a patient advocate and is very proud of the work Medic does every day.

Throughout her time at Medic, Anna Baldwin has proven herself to be an exceptional employee and representative of Medic’s mission. Anna consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty. She is a true inspiration and example of what an EMT should be. Over her two years with the agency, Anna has received 54 commendations from Medic employees and the public, and 9 nominations for a Star of Life.

Anna’s nominations outline her passion for patient advocacy. She treats every patient like they are her only patient that day and with the utmost respect and empathy. Anna listens to get to the root of each patient’s issue and fights on their behalf at the hospital. Whether it be getting an appropriate bed assignment or getting the patient the proper assistance after their discharge, Anna advocates for her patient every time.

Anna also received the Burnette-Nobles Award in 2018 in recognition of her outstanding service to the people in her community. She relentlessly proves herself to be an exceptionally competent, professional, and caring EMT.

Brian joined Medic as an EMT more than 20 years ago, and today has the highest consistent employee satisfaction rates for Operations Supervisors. Therefore, it is no surprise that Brian is known for being exceptionally dedicated to his employees.

A co-worker noted that his “commitment to his team and his peers has been a true test of character to which he passes with flying colors. I could not have asked for a more committed and passionate coworker who I have been honored to work beside.”

Brian has also been extremely instrumental in the operational management of Medic’s COVID-19 vaccination clinic during the pandemic, spearheaded numerous Mass Casualty Incident exercises, and most recently led a project focused on improving After Action Reporting and the development of an After Action Review Committee, which he is also the lead for.

During his experience with a fire department while in college, Brian was inspired to go into EMS to help even more during medical emergencies. Brian is from the Charlotte area and enjoys spending time with friends and family and being on the lake. Medic is honored to nominate Brian Smith with the much-deserved title of Star of Life.

For the last decade, Cynthia Jefferson has arrived to work every morning with a smile on her face. Her friendly demeanor helps set the tone of the Patient Financial Services Department (PFS) for the rest of the day. As the Revenue Cycle Supervisor, Cynthia is responsible for overseeing 14 very different personalities. During an average day, Cynthia visits with each of her employees to help ensure that her team has what it needs to succeed and always takes a few minutes to make sure all is right in their world.

As the PFS Supervisor, Cynthia’s duties include timecards, vacations, evaluations, and anything else that pops up. To make sure that field staff is aware of their excellent patient customer service, Cynthia will quickly email crews when praise comes in from patients. When an unhappy patient calls the Billing Department, she listens to their complaints and handles each one with the utmost professionalism and care. Cynthia does all of this without compromising her staff’s or department’s credibility. These are just a few of her many qualities that her staff praise her for and appreciate.

Cynthia is compassionate to both her staff and all of Mecklenburg EMS Agency’s patients. Since its conception, Cynthia has been a foundational rock for the PFS. Her staff can always count on her to do the right thing. According to one of her employees, “She is an example of what every Medic employee or supervisor should be. There is no challenge that she would not rise to meet if asked to.” Mecklenburg EMS Agency is proud to recognize Cynthia Jefferson as a 2019 Star of Life.

Joshua Baun has proven himself to be an advanced healthcare provider and an excellent patient advocate over his six years with Mecklenburg EMS Agency. Josh has an outstanding rapport with patients and relates remarkably well to everyone in all circumstances. He is a team player, is always dependable, and is committed to continued professional development.

“Although I have known Josh for a few years, it wasn’t until he joined my team in 2018 that I was able to witness first-hand the quality and caliber of this unsung individual,” says Josh’s supervisor.

Josh routinely seeks feedback, impressing leaders with his energy and his dedication to serving as an ambassador for the Agency.

Josh shatters all expectations that are set for him. He is an asset to his team by consistently fielding questions, seeking information, and clarifying any changes that occur within the Agency. Josh serves as a role model who strives for excellence and holds his peers to a higher standard. Josh recognizes others before himself and, as a Crew Chief, his mentorship and development of his direct team members is bar none.

On his own time, Josh meets with Crew Chiefs outside of work and helps them to prepare for interviews. Josh often challenges peers on many topics, including diversity and work ethic.

As a Relief Operations Supervisor (ROS), Josh is one of the most active members, and has done countless hours of extra work on writing and implementing new training software into the Crew Chief Training curriculum. He is continually striving to mentor and support field employees and is widely regarded as an outstanding advocate. Josh has also taken on an advanced leadership role in Crew Chief and Field Training Officer instruction. Josh often expresses how he wants to be there for the crews, and he single-handedly processed the most commendations as a ROS for Field Crew Chiefs last year.

As one of the most adaptable and accountable members of the Mecklenburg EMS team, Josh is a true example of a professional in the industry. His coworkers are particularly impressed with his goodwill and sense of honor in the workplace. He displays a natural sense of calmness and approachability, as well as a spirit of confidence, self-actualization, and a relentless drive to succeed. Josh has an innate desire to excel in all aspects of his duties and is very resolute in his convictions regarding character and accountability. Mecklenburg EMS Agency is proud to recognize Josh Baun as a 2019 Star of Life.