Michael Arquette exhibited heroic leadership in response to the horrific mass shooting that took place in May 2022, at a local supermarket in Buffalo’s East Side neighborhood.
When informed of the shooting, Michael responded without hesitation. He quickly and expertly coordinated with police while triaging all the victims at the scene. He also protected other EMS providers from having to witness the tragedy, only involving them when it was an absolute necessity. Even after more help arrived, Michael insisted on staying at the scene to ensure that the crews onsite had the emotional and medical support they needed. Sadly, the massacre left ten people dead, and three others injured.
The courage and servant leadership Michael embodied that day are representative of the many reasons he is highly respected among team members and fellow supervisors at AMR Western New York.
Phoenix Alexa Reisner started at Trans Am Ambulance Services, part of the Priority Ambulance family of companies, as a Call Taker/Dispatcher in 2014 and became an EMT in September 2022. Her bright disposition and inquisitive nature liven up any shift she is a part of.
Growing up with two parents in the healthcare industry, specifically in ambulance care, Phoenix has developed a strong passion for patient care and medicine. Since she was young, Phoenix dreamed of pursuing a career as a doctor. She has a Bachelor of Science in neurology with a minor in education from Harpur College of Arts and Science in Binghamton, NY, where she also made the dean’s list during her studies. Phoenix is pursuing a Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine at the New York Institute of Technology. This field focuses on preventative medicine and how each system of the body functions together. She has passed the first level of the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination and is currently earning hands-on experience at the local hospitals around New York City. When school goes on break, she returns to Trans Am to pick up shifts as an EMT.
Even with such a busy schedule studying medicine, Phoenix’s commitment to people’s well-being does not stop in hospital rounds. She volunteers at her local food shelter and is a Rock Steady Boxing program team member, which helps individuals with Parkinson’s disease manage their symptoms through exercise. Whenever she returns home, she participates in Olean’s Alzheimer’s Walk to aid the research on this disease. She also makes regular donations to the EMS Leadership of Tomorrow program with each paycheck received.
Phoenix has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to patient care, medicine, and her community. She will surely inspire others to strive for the same commitment to the welfare of others.
Larry Fort, Jr. embodies dedication and excellence in the EMS realm. As a Specialty Care Transport (SCT) Paramedic with Mohawk Ambulance, the highest level of care within our organization, Larry consistently advocates for and provides unparalleled care to all his patients. His commitment to healthcare is evident not only in his interactions with patients but also in his role as a mentor.
Born in Cobleskill Hospital and raised in Schoharie County, Larry has always shown a passion for serving his community. From his early days as a volunteer with Richmondville Ambulance in 1997 to joining the Mohawk family in 1999, he has built an impressive career spanning over two decades in EMS.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Larry is a dedicated practitioner of Uechi Ryu karate. Over the past two years, he has channeled his discipline and focus into this martial art, earning the rank of green belt. His varied interests also include shooting at the range, enjoying summer BBQs, and spending cherished moments with friends and family by the pool. Larry, alongside his wife, extends his compassion and care as foster parents, assisting with respites as needed.
A graduate from SUNY Cobleskill with a Paramedic degree in 2015, Larry continues to give back to the next generation. He shines as a mentor, guiding new paramedics and paramedic students, setting an example of excellence and professionalism. Outside the realm of healthcare, Larry aspires to bring joy to others through music, having recently embarked on an exciting venture as a mobile DJ.
For his unwavering dedication, passion, and commitment to both Mohawk Ambulance and the community at large, we are proud to honor Larry Fort, Jr. with the Stars of Life award.
Paramedic Chief Supervisor Adedeji Adebayo’s journey with Mohawk Ambulance is a testament to his dedication and hard work. Born and raised in The Bronx, New York, Adedeji began his mobile healthcare journey during high school, successfully completing the EMT course with FDNY EMS in 2010. Following high school, his thirst for knowledge took him further north to college in upstate New York.
Joining Mohawk Ambulance in 2012, Adedeji has, over the last 11 years, made significant contributions to the team. His journey from an EMT supervisor to his current role as Chief Supervisor Paramedic reflects his commitment and the valuable skills he’s acquired along the way. While his sporting interests spanned from baseball in middle school and high school to weekend paintball sessions, his devotion to his profession took precedence due to his increasing responsibilities.
Influenced by a teacher’s encouragement to persevere during challenging times, Adedeji has remained motivated, aiming to make a positive impact in the communities Mohawk Ambulance serves. His commitment goes beyond patient care. As Chief Supervisor, Adedeji takes immense pride in his station and team. He consistently looks out for every member, ensuring their well-being throughout the company.
Additionally, Adedeji’s expertise as an Emergent Vent Medic showcases his depth of knowledge in the field. He is a mentor and a beacon for Paramedic students, preparing them to be self-sufficient and competent medics. With his guidance and leadership, Mohawk Ambulance remains confident in its ability to deliver exceptional care to the community.
Adedeji has worked his way up the ranks to Chief Supervisor who takes pride in his station and his employees. Not only does he provide excellent patient care, he also looks our for every employee, not only in his station but throughout the company. Adedeji is an Emergent Vent Medic as well as a mentor and role model for Paramedic students. He also prepares our new medics to be strong independent Paramedics on their own.
Konrad Trzepizur embarked on his EMS career in 2011. He transitioned into his role as an EMT in New York City when he joined Northwell Health in 2013, where he continued to progress.
Over the past seven years, he has been a model leader in his role as an EMT Supervisor at Lenox Hill Hospital. Konrad’s dedication to service and excellence set the tone for the department. His lead-by-example approach makes him highly respected among his fellow EMS leaders and staff. His passion for helping others is evident in his work ethic.
At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Konrad was instrumental in ensuring operations continued running and that staff had everything needed to respond safely during the crisis.
In his free time, Konrad enjoys traveling the world. One of his most memorable trips to date was to Australia and New Zealand, where he immersed himself in the culture and cuisine. When not at work, he also enjoys gardening and day trading.
Konrad was selected this year because of his dedication and commitment to excellence. He continues to raise the bar and represents the best of the department and the EMS community.
Northwell Health is proud to honor Konrad as an American Ambulance Association 2023 Star of Life!
Anita Torres has served as an EMS provider in New York City for 22 years. Her inspiration for becoming an EMT came as a child when she was engrossed watching the popular TV series Emergency!
Anita has always loved helping people. She is known for going above and beyond the call of duty for both her patients and coworkers. She volunteers to organize holiday and birthday celebrations, enlivening the atmosphere at CEMS.
During a behavioral health emergency call, Anita’s keen situational awareness ultimately led to a mother being reunited with her baby, who had been abducted and transported across several states.
Anita, a mother of 3, lives in Staten Island with her daughter, Rebecca, and grand dogs, Madison and Steve.
Northwell Health is proud to honor Anita as an American Ambulance Association 2023 Star of Life!
Kevin Pantaleon started his career in EMS in 2016. He joined the team at Northwell Health Center for Emergency Medical Services in 2019 after obtaining his Paramedic certification. His career with Northwell began during the COVID-19 pandemic where he worked countless hours providing exceptional care in the various communities greatly impacted by the pandemic. Kevin is also very involved in field training. He has been a preceptor and mentor to many Paramedic students. He takes pride in sculpting the minds of up-and-coming providers.
Kevin received a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology and is working towards his Masters in Emergency Management from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. His goal is to work in Homeland Security and bring his experience and expertise from EMS into that role.
Kevin was adopted from Ecuador and came to the US when he was two years old. While not providing care as a clinician, he enjoys fishing and traveling. One of his most memorable trips included a two-week trip through New York State visiting different national parks. Kevin is a champion for Diversity and Inclusion and an advocate for LGBTQ rights.
Kevin’s peers and students speak very highly of him and CEMS is very proud of his exemplary patient care and work ethic. Northwell Health is proud to honor Kevin as an American Ambulance Association 2023 Star of Life!
Kenneth Ortiz Cortez was born in Puerto Rico and came to Brooklyn, New York when he was five years old. His family instilled in him the importance of serving others. The belief in the inherent value of all people, and that everyone is important and should be treated with courtesy and respect runs deep in him.
Kenneth admits that it took a little while for him to figure out that becoming an EMT was what he was destined to do. He knows that some feel that we all choose our own path, but he feels that EMS chose him. He found a home in EMS with like-minded people who all share a common goal of serving and helping others in need. He has worked at various EMS organizations in all of the boroughs of New York City, and we are so fortunate that he landed here at Northwell Health Staten Island University Hospital.
Kenny is the embodiment of EMS. He goes above and beyond both while on the ambulance caring for patients and when off duty. He brings the department together whether it is setting up practices and coaching the department softball team or participating and cheering on his teammates in the various Northwell Health events. He is a well-respected member of the department whose contributions go well beyond being a great partner offering the best in pre-hospital care.
Northwell Health is proud to honor Kenneth as an American Ambulance Association 2023 Star of Life.
David Ebert launched his career in EMS when he became an EMT in 2010. His early years consisted of him working in very busy areas in New York City and the Bronx. Soon after obtaining his Paramedic certification, he joined our team at Northwell Health Center for Emergency Medical Services in 2014. He started out as a 911 Paramedic working in New York City, then made his way into our interfacility transport division in 2017. He soon realized that he had a passion for teaching, so prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, he became an integral part of our training department at CEMS.
While in the training department, David tirelessly provided EMS education, hands-on skills training, and assessments. He evaluated countless new employees in the department both in the classroom setting and on the road. He is a huge advocate for change and always brings forward ideas for new techniques and processes to aid in education and ultimately improve patient care. David has also served on several committees within the department including the Crisis Incident Stress Management team, the Workplace Culture Committee, and the Research Committee. He also contributed to a research initiative that was published in the Resuscitation journal.
One of David Ebert’s proudest moments and latest accomplishments was when he successfully completed his Critical Care Paramedic course and was promoted to SkyHealth as a Flight Paramedic. He is hoping to get involved in training and education in this division as well. David also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from the University of Albany.
While not flying with SkyHealth or helping mold the new generation of EMS professionals, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Kristen, and son, Cameron. He also enjoys playing golf.
David is a crucial part of our team. His value is recognized by his peers and leaders, and he is extremely deserving of this award for all of his hard work, positivity, and dedication to this profession and to CEMS. Northwell Health is proud to honor David as an American Ambulance Association 2023 Star of Life!
Samantha Disilvestro started her EMS career in 2013 as an EMT at a private ambulance service. Working alongside Paramedics, she discovered that the emergency “911” side of the field was only part of the picture. Her passion for interfacility mobile healthcare had begun. Samantha’s desire to learn to become a more skilled clinician drove her to enroll in nursing school, which she soon decided was not her path. In 2017, she enrolled in a Paramedic training program, and upon completion in 2018, applied for and obtained a position as a Paramedic at Northwell Health Staten Island University Hospital.
Samantha recognized immediately that she was an integral part of her patient’s medical team and not just a transportation provider. She quickly earned the respect of her EMS colleagues as well as the Hospital teams.
Her understanding of the importance of our role in the care of the patient extends beyond the calls she responds to. She also assists in the training of new and seasoned members of the department on all the equipment and policies. Samantha can always be counted on to step up for special projects and assignments and most recently became part of the Northwell EMS Honor Guard.
Northwell Health is proud to honor Samantha as an American Ambulance Association 2023 Star of Life.
Gabriel Swart was raised in the small town of Saugerties, NY with his parents and two brothers. He and his brothers have always shared a strong bond and grew up doing everything together, from snowboarding and biking to playing video games and LEGO. They always enjoyed spending time together and have always encouraged each other to strive for greatness.
Gabe believes his interest in EMS began as a result of his brother’s illness. His younger brother was diagnosed with leukemia three times over the course of his childhood. Watching the doctors and nurses perform miracles for his brother inspired Gabe to want to help others as well. He knew he wanted to pursue a career in the medical field, and thought EMS seemed to be the best way to fulfill his goal.
Gabe began his career at Mohawk Ambulance Service in February 2019 and has quickly become a valuable leader. He has become a Field Training Officer and is instrumental in welcoming and training new hires. Gabe sets an example for all who are around him in regards to professionalism and how to be a respectful leader, and he exemplifies what it means to be a hard worker and a great caregiver.
Of his nomination as a 2022 Star of Life, Gabe says, “This is a great honor for me. I have such a passion for EMS and it is such a privilege to work with my friends and to serve the people of Albany Capital District. Mohawk is a home away from home, and I feel proud to say I’m an asset to the team.”
Gabe strives to always help others and to be the best patient care provider he can be. He aspires to soon become a Paramedic.
John has been involved in EMS as an EMT and Paramedic for 26 years. He joined CHS MIHC in 2000 and is an Advanced Practice Paramedic.
John’s patient care skills are among the best in the profession, but what really sets John apart is his passion for patient advocacy. He displays this passion through his work with the adult protective program and previously within the community paramedicine program. John contributed to the development of both programs, and also assisted with streamlining their methods for delivery of care. Every day, John puts forth the effort to learn new processes and treatment modalities to improve patient care. His commitment to the profession of EMS has been a foundation and example for others within the field to model themselves after.
Chris is a retired U.S. Marine. He started in EMS in the early 1990s and quickly advanced from EMT to Paramedic. Throughout his career, he has worked in a variety of agencies including rural, suburban, air, and ground ambulance. He has been at CHS MIHC since 2014.
Chris is the epitome of an exemplary clinician. Chris, or “O.B.” as he is known, is constantly striving to advance the practice of prehospital medicine. Serving as a regional preceptor, he coaches new Paramedics as they emerge from class. He is also one of our lead simulation coordinators, and has enhanced our clinical education program for CHS MIHC providers as well as other providers in the region.
Alex started as a volunteer EMT in high school, and eventually worked toward a paid position as a Paramedic in New York City’s 911 system. He worked as a Paramedic on nights and weekends while studying for his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in finance. He experienced first-hand the devastation and chaos that can take or profoundly alter people’s lives as a First Responder to the 9/11 attacks in lower Manhattan, and this stimulated his passion for providing medical care.
After receiving his MBA in Finance and International Business, Alex went to work in the finance department at a national ambulance company where he discovered a void in the market for quality on-site medical services provided at events. Shortly after, he founded ParaDocs Worldwide Inc., an events medical company that focuses on large scale events and venues. The company has since grown to 12 full-time employees, and over 2,800 seasonal workers operating in 32 states and a few other countries.
ParaDocs has been featured in articles by The Wall Street Journal, Crain’s, The New York Times, CBS, Cheddar, and others. It has won numerous awards including Inc 5000 Fastest Growing Companies 2018, Forbes Best Startup Employers 2020, and Crain’s Most Notable in Healthcare 2020. Its clientele includes: The Met Gala, The Presidential Inauguration, The Grammys, NYFW, The Victoria Secret Fashion Show, most music festivals in the U.S., and many stadiums.
Alex was inducted into Crain’s 40 Under 40 in 2020, was awarded the Empire Whole Health Hero Award in 2021, and was selected to be part of the Mayor’s Committee for the Safe Reopening of NYC Post Pandemic. In addition to his work on the committee, Alex helped to manage the largest vaccination site in the country and donated over 200,000 masks to local hospitals and First Responders. Alex continues to work as a Paramedic, holds a Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma, is a Certified EMS Lab Instructor, is certified in TCCC and the Incident Command System, and is often a guest lecturer at the NYU School of Professional Studies.
David Battaglia is an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) and Driver Trainer with Mohawk Ambulance Service. He joined the company in 2017, but his career as a first responder dates back to 2012 when he began volunteering with his hometown fire department, Niskayuna Fire District 2.
At the start of 2019, David took on the additional role of Driver Trainer, working with new hires to set forth expectations of what it truly means to be a mobile healthcare professional and Mohawk Ambulance employee.
David truly appreciates each and every moment he is able to experience as a first responder, and enjoys the sense of fulfillment when he is able to make a positive impact in the lives of others. His work ethic and dedication to others have not gone unnoticed. Last year, David was awarded the Distinguished Service Award from Mohawk Ambulance. He notes that the nomination from his peers to receive the Star of Life has been his greatest professional accomplishment thus far.
Having worked as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, David recognizes that public service is one of the greater gifts we can give. Outside of work, he continually looks for ways in which he can volunteer his time to charitable causes. He exemplifies the core values of Mohawk Ambulance Service and the company is proud to have him as part of our crew. We look forward to his continued growth in the field of emergency medical services.
John Large began his EMT career as an explorer with Mohawk Ambulance at the age of 13. John has now worked for Mohawk Ambulance for 31 years.
Not only does John treat every patient as if he is caring for his own family, he affords his every colleague the same respect. John is well-rounded in every aspect of emergency services. In addition to his work as an EMT, John has also been a volunteer firefighter and officer for 38 years.
John always goes a above and beyond the call of duty. When there is a serious call, John will respond from the station, or from home, and assist the crews in any way he can. John is always willing to lend an ear; should it be to crews after a difficult call or helping his colleagues with work or personal problems. On holidays, during extreme weather conditions, and just on long, busy days, John always makes sure that his crews are properly fed and taken care of. John has earned the respect of the entire Mohawk Ambulance family.
John is the ultimate team player and treats everyone with respect, regardless of rank. He is known by his peers to be dedicated, committed, hardworking, professional, and kind.
John has devoted his life to public service in EMS and as a volunteer firefighter. John has earned the utmost respect from Mohawk’s employees, our volunteer and municipal fire departments, and his patients alike. It is an honor and privilege to work side by side with John.
Katherine Miller’s positive impact on her team rivals that of EMS professionals with decades of experience. Since joining AMR’s operation in Syracuse in August 2017, Kate has earned widespread respect from her peers and supervisors. During her short tenure, Kate has sought out additional training, demonstrated strong team management skills, and attained the ranks of Field Training Officer and senior EMT.
Kate is active in her community. She leads Stop the Bleed courses and has completed Rescue Task Force Active Shooting training to improve her knowledge and skill. Kate was quick to join AMR’s Emergency Response Team and was deployed after Hurricane Michael struck the Florida panhandle last October.
New and experienced providers alike seek out Kate as a partner due to her abilities and genuine positive attitude. Though still new to EMS, Kate is a role model and someone to watch as her career unfolds.
Timothy Hoar tried his hand at several professions before joining the AMR team in February 2018. EMS seemed like a perfect fit for Tim, a U.S. Army combat veteran.
Last July, Tim’s military training proved essential to defusing an extremely dangerous situation and preventing bloodshed. Tim and his partner responded to the scene of a call involving a violent patient at a local nursing home before police arrived. Tim spoke calmly to the man to de-escalate the situation and gain his trust. However, tensions flared again and the man brandished a pistol. When he fired a shot toward a member of the nursing home staff, Tim’s military training kicked in. He swept the patient’s legs, took him to the ground, and secured the weapon. Once Tim had the patient restrained, he reverted to caregiver mode, putting a pillow under the man’s head to reduce his discomfort while they waited for officers to arrive on scene.
After the incident, authorities lauded Tim for his incredibly brave actions. The Buffalo Police Public Information Officer called Tim a hero for bravely wrestling the firearm, which contained four additional live rounds, away from the patient. There is little doubt that Tim’s actions that day saved many lives.
Steve LaDue has skillfully provided mobile healthcare in his community for many years. He was previously a provider at Rural/Metro and Greece Ambulance, then joined Henrietta Ambulance (CHS Mobile Integrated Healthcare) in March of 2006. He has served in many capacities at Henrietta Ambulance, always as a first class provider.
Steve has a passion for being a Paramedic and for educating EMS personnel. His extensive experience gives him the ability to recognize when patients are truly sick and treat them accordingly. For example, when Steve and his partner were sent to a priority 4 illness call, and upon arrival, Steve immediately recognized the patient was having a STEMI even though the patient’s symptoms were vague. Steve initiated appropriate care and provided rapid transport to a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) center with a scene time of 8 minutes. This recognition of the critical illness certainly made a difference in the patient’s life.
Steve was one of the first Rapid Sequence Induction (RSI) Technicians in the region, and the first to perform an RSI without the assistance of a second Paramedic. He is confident and able to perform complex skills independently in order to best treat his patients. He has always challenged processes to ensure any changes were being implemented for the right reasons, though he remains flexible enough to modify his practice based on new evidence.
Steve comes from an EMS family, as his wife is also a Paramedic at an agency within the region. Steve is a skilled scuba diver, and at one point in his career he dove professionally, inspecting bridge pylons in lakes and rivers. Today, Steve enjoys scuba diving for recreation when he is not camping with his family or making beer in his basement.
Adam Nato began his career in EMS volunteering with Castleton Fire/Ambulance, where he acquired his EMT card in 2009. He was hired at Mohawk Ambulance Service in December of 2016 as a Dispatcher for the Communications Department. After a few months, he began working regularly in the ambulance as an EMT. Adam received a Distinguished Service Award in December of 2017 for his hard work. His continuous dedication and professionalism quickly landed him a position as Supervisor, and soon after, Chief Supervisor, where he assists with ePCRs for the company.
Adam is equally as active outside of work as he is on the clock. He enjoys competing in marathons, attending and participating in sporting events, skiing, and hunting. He also takes frequent getaways with his girlfriend and two dogs. He still volunteers in his free time, but now with Defreestville Fire Department which is close to his home.
We are very proud to have an employee such as Adam Nato on our team, and look forward to his continued growth with Mohawk Ambulance Service.
