Brian Rogers has been an Advanced Scope Paramedic with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio, Inc. since 2020. During his tenure, Brian has played an integral role as a Field Training Officer, guiding new hires through orientation and training. With a career spanning over three decades in emergency services, Brian began as an EMT in 1987, advanced to EMT-Intermediate in 1992, and became a certified Paramedic in 1998.

Brian’s extensive experience includes 37 years with the Springfield Fire Department in Richland County, Ohio, and 32 years with Mansfield Ambulance before joining Superior. In addition, he served in the transportation department of the local school system for 30 years.

Known for his leadership, professionalism, and clinical expertise, Brian consistently demonstrates the qualities of an EMS professional, holding his peers accountable and leading by example. He excels in high-pressure situations, bringing a positive attitude and a “whatever you need” approach to any challenge.

Outside of his professional life, Brian enjoys taking cruises, finding balance between his demanding career and personal life. His unwavering dedication to EMS continues to inspire those around him, making him a strong candidate for the Star of Life Award.

Michael Dobrosky has been an Advanced Scope Paramedic with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio since 2021. In a relatively short time, Michael has distinguished himself as a Field Training Officer (FTO), reflecting his strong commitment to mentoring and developing new EMS professionals.

Michael’s EMS career began in 2010 as an EMT with First Care Ambulance, where he advanced to Operations Manager. In 2024, while working at Superior, he earned his Paramedic certification, achieving the highest score in the history of the paramedic program at the University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC)—a testament to his dedication and expertise.

Michael’s perseverance through personal and professional challenges makes him an exceptional candidate for the Star of Life Award. He has faced significant adversity, including the loss of his father, the birth of his daughter with health complications, and his own battle with cancer. Despite these hardships, Michael consistently maintains a positive attitude, demonstrates an outstanding work ethic, and exercises sound clinical judgment. He is highly regarded by his peers for his professionalism and his ability to inspire high standards in those around him.

In his spare time, Michael enjoys spending quality time with his daughter and family, racing cars, and working on hands-on projects that showcase his skill and creativity. His resilience and dedication to both his profession and his family are truly inspiring.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio is proud to honor Michael Dobrosky as a 2024 Star of Life for his exceptional contributions to EMS and his community.

It is with great enthusiasm that Spirit EMS dba Spirit Medical Transport, LLC nominates John R. Hathaway, Jr. for the prestigious Star of Life Award. As an EMT in the service of Spirit EMS since July 17, 2007, John has consistently exemplified exceptional dedication, compassion, and resilience in his role, profoundly impacting both his colleagues and the communities he serves.

Since April 2017, Eric Thompson has been an exemplary Paramedic at Community Care Ambulance Network. His commitment to upholding and enhancing industry standards has kept both his skills and those of his team at the forefront. Eric, a natural educator, fosters creative thinking and self-reflection among peers. Most notably, his unwavering dedication to patient advocacy highlights the values of Community Care Ambulance. Congratulations, Eric, for setting the gold standard in patient care.

Kellie Ruetsch is the Regional Operations Manager for Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio, Inc.  She started her career as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in 1997 and became a Paramedic in 2002. Kellie also worked as a dispatcher for three years in addition to her service working in the field. She attained her firefighter license in 2000.

In 2016, Kellie was offered a leadership position in which she immediately excelled. She continued her professional growth by obtaining her EMS Instructor license in 2017 and completing the prestigious Ambulance Service Manager certification in 2022. 

What makes Kellie so special and a perfect candidate for the Star of Life is how she leads by example. She exemplifies a consummate EMS professional through her consistency, steady demeanor, and the way that she always strives to do her best for patients, colleagues, and the community.

In 2020, Kellie was instrumental in Superior’s launch in Ohio.  Her sterling reputation with local agencies and government bodies aided Superior Ambulance with quick entry into the state. She has been able to maintain 20+ years of excellent service in private EMS while simultaneously holding a position at Clinton Township Fire Department and being a devoted mother of two. 

In Kellie’s spare time, she enjoys going on family vacations to Walt Disney, watching her kids compete in sports, and simply relaxing with her husband. 

Loretta (Lorie) Burton is being honored as a Star of Life for her actions that saved the life of a cardiac arrest patient in April of 2019. On that day, she and her EMT partner were called to a dental clinic parking lot where they found an 81-year-old male in cardiac arrest. With the help of her partner, Lorie began CPR and then continued ALS care on her own. Lorie was able to establish a return of spontaneous circulation and the patient was transported to the emergency department of a local hospital. He was released a few days later with no neuro deficits or cardiac damage. This save was a direct result of Lorie’s dedication to the patients she serves. That dedication perhaps was demonstrated best when Lorie was the medic on the scene of a car accident involving the man who had earlier tried to shoot her policeman husband. She treated this patient with respect and he received the best of care, as anyone who knows Lorie knew he would.

Lorie has been in EMS for 18 years. She began her career as an EMT and continued her education to become a paramedic. She attained the rank of supervisor but reduced her hours to part-time to care for her five children. She is a proud member of the Youngstown community.

Larry Clay joined Community Care Ambulance in 2003 as an EMT. He has been providing care since 1997 when he first became an EMT and Fire Fighter. Larry is the quiet strength of his shift—he is ever-ready to assist patients, his coworkers, and the community.

Larry responded from home to a tragic house fire after hearing the call on the radio. He wanted to be present in person to assist at the heartbreaking scene. Afterward, Larry continued to provide emotional support to coworkers and the community during this difficult time.

When Larry is not working, he spends time with his twin boys, Zachary and Christopher. Together they camp, fish, and enjoy the outdoors.

Jeff started in EMS over twenty years ago, and came to Community Care Ambulance in 2005 as an EMT. He earned his Paramedic certification in 2011.

Jeff is one of the strongest clinicians in our organization. He is always the patient’s advocate and never turns down a chance to help someone. His boisterous demeanor makes him a natural fit to mentor new and seasoned staff alike. Jeff works quickly and calmly to put his patients at ease in even the most critical of situations. He has treated and educated hundreds of grateful patients, including one who called 911 complaining of an allergic reaction. Jeff quickly determined that the patient was actually suffering a STEMI, and was able to treat and get the patient to definitive care.

When Jeff is not working, he can be found hunting, fishing, or playing golf. He also enjoys spending time with his two daughters, aged 20 and 17.

Jonathon began his career at Community Care Ambulance (CCA) in 2006 as a Wheelchair Technician. He immediately expressed interest in helping others and expanding his abilities. He became an EMT in 2007, an Advanced EMT in 2009, and then a Paramedic in 2012. He also became certified as an AHA CPR Instructor, Firefighter, Fire Instructor, and Fire Inspector. He is a Lieutenant at a part-time fire department when not working at CCA.

In his career he has been deployed on two occasions to assist in federal emergencies; first to Hurricane Ike (2008) in Texas and then to Hurricane Irma (2017) in Florida. In May 2021, he was promoted to Operations Supervisor and is now one of the vital connections between the field staff and upper management.

In his spare time, he enjoys photography as well as riding motorcycles with his dog, Charlie.

Marguerite “Rita” Stroyny has been an EMT since 2000 and began her career with Community Care Ambulance (CCA) in 2001. Rita does not back down from any challenge she faces, and during her CCA career she has been deployed to assist in Hurricane Katrina (2005), Hurricane Harvey (2017), and Hurricane Michael (2018).

Rita delivers her best to each and every patient she meets, as well as to her community. She organizes benefits and fundraisers, such as a drive to stuff stockings for the military at Christmas and a benefit for a coworker who faced a family tragedy. In February 2019, Rita was recognized by Ashtabula City Council for going above and beyond for children who were affected by a devastating house fire.

Being involved in a profession that helps individuals in their greatest hour of need is a perfect fit for Rita, and her selflessness has positively affected the lives of many. Rita enjoys spending her personal time four-wheeling and camping with family, including her eight grandchildren. CCA is privileged to recognize Rita as a 2019 AAA Star of Life.

Corey is a superior EMT and has given the EMS profession greater than 14 years of service. He has served many years with Community Care Ambulance as our most requested EMT for transports and an amazing Community Outreach advocate. Corey functions as a mentor and is recognized for being a strong leader and well respected by his peers. He is focused and committed to doing whatever is best for the patient in the most compassionate and competent manner. Community Care receives positive feedback from patients, co-workers, and various facilities. Corey is a captivating educator, a self-motivator and displays a positive attitude making him an example of a star. For several years, Corey has functioned as the Infection Control Officer and DRIVE instructor for all new hire orientations and annual trainings. Corey has DJ’d and planned several annual company events, and has a passion for Public Relations events such as Safety Town. Corey is most proud of his family and often shares stories of his niece Molly and the fun they have. Corey enjoys musical productions and has played leading and supporting roles in many. For the few quiet moments in his day, you will find Corey and significant other Justin seeking out new food creations and watching their favorite movies. Community Care is very fortunate to have Corey and all of his talents.”

Jake is a charismatic person who displays compassion, education and support to his coworkers and his patients with sincerity and trust. He is able to assist in multiple areas of our organization and consistently is a go to person for just about everything. Jake is often used as a field preceptor and has been known to spend time in our control center as an EMS Dispatcher. Jake has gained the admiration from his peers as being a fanatic about station and truck cleanliness. He is a true lead by example individual and is always prepared for whatever adventure is brought his way. One of Jakes nominations came from his shift partner who describes the countless times she has watched Jake take extra time with patients and the amazing feeling it gives her watching and knowing how he makes it personal to make the patients day better and touch their lives. This sentiment was repeated through Jake’s nominations and clearly displays why Jake is a STAR. Jake has been dedicated to the EMS and Fire profession since 2004 when he began as an firefighter at his local Fire Department and then in 2004 as an EMT with Community Care Ambulance. He became a Paramedic in 2008 and recently completed his Critical Care Training in 2013. Jake is about to be a proud new father in just a few months with his wife Heather. Jake spends his time away from EMS tending to his farm animals and spending time outdoors with family.”

Tonya Chance has provided CCA with over 13 years of dedicated EMS service and is one of CCA’s many success stories. Tonya started her EMS Career working as an EMT progressing through the certifications and is now one of our senior Paramedics and field training personnel. As a vital part of CCA’s patient philosophy Tonya has trained our new hires to smile and always be a patient advocate. It is through Tonya’s everyday interactions that she was nominated by her peers to be a Star of Life as her peers see her continuous positive outlook and approach to her career. Tonya is an avid Harley Davidson rider and has a custom motorcycle that has specialty paint reflecting the pride she has in being a Paramedic. This was a particularly difficult and meaningful journey for Tonya to become a Paramedic. During her first attempt at Paramedic school while being a single mom of three children she was volunteering to render care for her ill father who lost his battle with his illness during mid class. She never regretted spending the time with her father and putting class on hold. In fact, she used this as a goal to finish and become a Paramedic. She was then offered an accelerated program that was conducted over 90 days of fulltime course work and became a Paramedic. Tonya’s ability to interact with field staff and always provide a voice of reason with compassion and empathy has earned her the recognition and admiration of her peers. Tonya has the amazing support of her three children and will be sending her youngest off to college in no time and then you will find her riding off into the sunset on her Harley with her fiancé Donnie when not on duty.”

Erik’s life of service began at a young age, when he became a Boy Scout. During his time as a Boy Scout, Erik enjoyed the first aid lessons he received, and he developed a passion for helping others. Currently, Erik holds the honor of being an Eagle Scout. At the age of 16 he became a Cadet at his local fire department, and became an EMT at age 18. In 2007, Erik continued his education and became a Paramedic. Today, he possesses the skills and knowledge necessary to manage critical patients between hospitals, specialty referral centers, and extended care facilities. Erik joined Community Care Ambulance in 2017 as a Paramedic. He has been nominated as a Star of Life for his exemplary customer service and documentation skills. Erik has profound respect for EMS and he demonstrates it on a daily basis through his interactions with patients, customers, and coworkers.

Erik also writes extremely good patient reports, which are so well done that we now use one of his reports in documentation class to teach new employees how to write correct reports. Well written documentation is so vital for all aspects of patient care, from complete medical records, proper billing, and support of the organization. Erik is a great source of information. He is always available to answer questions and he encourages others to become more involved in EMS and CCA.

Even when he is not on the clock, Erik’s priority is always helping others. One day, after his shift, he was on his way to eat when he came across a man who had been in a motor vehicle accident. Without hesitation, Erik quickly helped pull the driver from his burning car. Erik is always thinking of others, and he demonstrated that during this off-duty response.

During his time off, Erik enjoys spending time with his wife and six children – ages 19, 17, 15, 13, 10, and 6.  They enjoy backpacking, fishing, and hunting. Erik also enjoys reading and watching cartoons.

He is a highly skilled Paramedic who provides quality clinical care to all of his patients, which is why he is a 2018 Star of Life.

Trudi and her family came to the United States when she was just five years old because Martial Law had been declared in the Philippines. She later studied art at the Cleveland Institute of Art and then spent over 20 years working in Graphics Production.

In March of 2014, Trudi decided that she wanted to transition into a more fulfilling career – Emergency Medical Services. She became a Wheelchair Technician at Community Care Ambulance, so that she could assist people in their discharge trips and pre-hospital travel. Trudi always makes sure that she leaves her patients with the lasting impression that she truly care for them. She anticipates and strives to understand the unique needs of patients and customers. Our wheelchair technicians demonstrate personal commitment to the organization’s core values, and Trudi goes above and beyond.

Trudi’s coworkers describe her as someone who puts patients before herself, ensures that patients are kept comfortable and safe at all times, always has a positive attitude, and someone who brings a smile to everyone she meets.

In her spare time, Trudi enjoys spending time with family, cooking, and watching movies. She is also known to sing for weddings, and was once the lead singer in a Journey cover band.

Trudi is nominated as a Star of Life in recognition of her dedication and commitment to providing the highest-quality service to each person she meets and helps every day.

Mark Adams, Wheelchair Technician, has worked at Community Care Ambulance in Ashtabula, Ohio for two years. His coworkers are honoring Mark for his self- motivation, his helpfulness to colleagues, his ability to note areas for improvement,
and his enhancement of the workplace for everyone with whom he comes into contact.

Mark goes above and beyond every day for his patients and coworkers. He shows his dedication through helping clean units, spending extra time and attention with his patients, and assisting with PCR routing. No matter the situation, Mark is always polite and professional, and is the ideal representative of everything a Star of Life should be.

When not working, Mark spends his time with his family and chasing all things that swim in the water. Mark had a long career in hospitality until he made a life decision to change career paths to fulfill his passion for helping people.

Dawn has worked for Community Care Ambulance (CCA) in Ashtabula, Ohio for 8 years. Dawn’s daily actions are a constant example of her dedication to her duties and profession. She always puts her patients first and is a voice of experience and reason to many of her coworkers.

Dawn serves CCA as a Critical Care Paramedic, and takes on every task with passion, dedication, and a smile. She assists CCA in making progressive changes by maintaining professionalism, compassion, and respect for her coworkers. Her actions exhibited by her superior performance prove her to be a valued asset to our organization. She has deployed with CCA on natural disasters, and is continually receiving compliments from patients, facilities staff, and management. Dawn is a graduate of Community Care Ambulance’s accelerated Paramedic Program. She began her career as an EMT in 2007, and progressed to Paramedic and then to Critical Care Paramedic.

Dawn is active with her family and glows with pride when discussing her grandchildren. She is a grandmother to four granddaughters, three of which are triplets. Dawn and her husband, John, are celebrating their 27th wedding anniversary in April. Dawn and John often spend warm summer days on their motorcycle, finding adventures and exploring new sites.

Marcus has been with AMR Ohio for six months and has conducted himself with the utmost professionalism to everyone he comes in contact with. He is a recipient of numerous patient compliments for his exceptional demeanor and care, and he had the ability to demonstrate these traits on an emergency call in December.
When responding to a call for which fire department personnel were unavailable,
Marcus began treatment of a 53-year-old patient complaining of chest pain. After an assessment, 12 lead EKG and IV, the patient became unresponsive. Marcus’s partner began CPR while Marcus prepared to defibrillate. CPR was resumed after defibrillation. Moments later, the patient regained a cardiac rhythm, regained consciousness and actually complained the chest compressions hurt. The patient was transported to a nearby hospital, rushed to the cardiac Cath lab, underwent open heart surgery and was able to spend another holiday with his family.
Marcus is a four year veteran of the United States Navy and has received two Navy Achievement Medals, a Good Conduct Medal and a Global War on Terrorism Medal. He is working on a Bachelor of Science degree in Emergency Management. Marcus is a welcome addition to the Ohio team.