Sarah Stump serves as Supervisor of Communications, Dispatch, and Billing at Spirit EMS, where her leadership and dedication have made her an invaluable part of the organization’s success. In her primary role, she oversees dispatch and billing operations, trains new personnel, provides continuing education, and ensures seamless daily functions that directly impact both patient care and the financial well-being of the service.

A key member of the leadership team, Sarah has been instrumental in the operational excellence that helped Spirit EMS earn the prestigious Ohio EMS Agency of the Year award. She regularly attends state and national conferences to stay current on Medicare, Medicaid, and dispatch practices, bringing that knowledge back to her team. Her communication skills extend beyond the office—she guides emergency callers with calm expertise, trains hospital staff on transport software to improve response times, and, when needed, steps into the field as an Advanced EMT provider.

Sarah’s colleagues have twice recognized her as Spirit EMS Supervisor of the Year, honoring her in both 2023 and 2024. She also represents the company at community events, including STEM D2 panels, where she inspires young people—especially women—to pursue careers in EMS.

She holds Advanced EMT certifications in Indiana and Ohio, serves part-time with the Union City Fire Department, and is currently enrolled in a paramedic program through Reid Health. In addition, Sarah maintains multiple certifications in dispatch and billing and has recently tested to become a state-certified EMS instructor.

Beyond her professional life, Sarah is devoted to her family. She and her husband, Shelby, are raising three teenagers on their farm, where they care for horses and a lively flock of chickens. With her family’s support, she continues to pursue her education and enjoy hobbies such as photography. Known for her compassion, determination, and love of community, Sarah is a shining example of the spirit of EMS.

Spirit EMS is proud to recognize Sarah Stump as a 2025 Star of Life!

Originally from Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, Captain Paramedic Will Gardam came to the United States in 2024 to pursue his dream of serving others through emergency medical services. Within just four months of joining Spirit EMS, his dedication and skill earned him a promotion to Captain, making him the immediate supervisor of field crews serving rural Ohio. His leadership is marked by professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment to both patients and colleagues.

A graduate of St. Joseph’s College, Ferntree Gully, and the Australian Catholic University with a Bachelor of Paramedicine, Will quickly established himself as a respected leader. His promotion was celebrated in a special swearing-in and pinning ceremony attended by his parents, Wayne and Megan Gardam, who traveled from Australia to mark the milestone. His father, a flight Paramedic, reflected that what took him a decade to achieve in Australia, Will accomplished in just six months in the United States.

Will’s accomplishments continued to grow. At the Spirit EMS Christmas party, employees voted him “Supervisor of the Year,” a remarkable honor for someone so new to leadership. That same year, Spirit EMS was named Ohio’s EMS Agency of the Year, with Will playing a key role in the company’s success.

Inspired by his father’s career, Will pursued paramedicine at a young age. Knowing that only a small percentage of graduates in Australia secure full-time Paramedic positions immediately after college, he took a leap of faith at age 22 to move halfway around the world. Since arriving, he has embraced both professional and personal growth, building a life of service in his new community.

Outside of work, Will enjoys golf, attending church, and spending time with friends—his “mates.” He has stood as a groomsman for several weddings during his short time in the U.S., reflecting the strong personal connections he has built. He has also found joy in his relationship with his girlfriend, Maddison, and has embraced a father-figure role for her two young sons, Carson and Chandler.

Spirit EMS is proud to recognize Captain Paramedic Will Gardam as a Star of Life for his rapid professional achievements, compassionate leadership, and steadfast devotion to his patients, his colleagues, and his adopted community.

Community Care Ambulance Network is proud to recognize Paramedic and Field Training Officer Stone Volkmer as a Star of Life. Stone began his EMS journey in October 2023 as a NETO while attending EMT school. After earning his EMT certification, he quickly advanced his career by becoming a Paramedic. Today, he serves as a Field Training Officer, helping to shape the next generation of EMS professionals.

Stone thrives on responsibility and sees EMS as the ultimate opportunity to grow and lead. As a trainer, he prioritizes real-world experience and teamwork, encouraging providers to share perspectives and learn from one another. “I feel like people are just told how to do it,” he says. “I want them to experience, share, and expand. I like to teach and get multiple perspectives—different eyes coming together to get the job done.”

At the heart of his work is an unwavering commitment to exceptional patient care. Stone believes that technical skill must always be paired with compassion, presence, and genuine human connection. Whether leading a call or mentoring a new provider, he goes the extra mile to ensure that patients feel seen, heard, and cared for in their most vulnerable moments.

Stone’s passion for EMS is deeply personal. As a child, he experienced a near-death emergency that required paramedic care. He vividly recalls the team who treated him and later visited him in the hospital—a powerful encounter that inspired him to pursue a career in EMS. That experience continues to fuel his dedication on every shift, motivating him to provide the kind of care that makes a lasting difference.

Community Care Ambulance Network is honored to celebrate Stone Volkmer as a Star of Life.

Community Care Ambulance Network is proud to recognize Emergency Medical Technician and Field Training Officer Mark Powers as a Star of Life. Mark began his EMS career in 1997 when he first became certified as an EMT, later recertifying in 2016. In January 2025, he achieved a lifelong dream by joining CCAN full-time, bringing with him nearly three decades of service in emergency response and patient care.

Mark’s commitment to serving others began long before his EMS career. In 1984, he enlisted in the U.S. Army as a mechanic and later served in the reserves from 1992 to 2009. During his military service, he also served as a medic, a role that inspired his enduring dedication to patient care and ultimately led him to civilian EMS. In 1997, Mark joined the fire service, where his passion for helping his community deepened further.

For Mark, EMS has always been about impact rather than financial reward. He recalls the fulfillment of seeing patients recover after receiving care, saying, “It gave me a good feeling when I would see someone later after caring for them, and I knew I did my job well.”

Today, as a Field Training Officer, Mark is committed to mentoring and preparing the next generation of EMTs. He views training as a way to pass on his knowledge and values: “I won’t be an EMT forever, but I can pass my information on to others to help spread the caring.”

Mark is grateful for the opportunity to serve full-time in EMS, reflecting with humility and pride: “I’ve always wanted to be a full-time EMT. And here you guys give me the opportunity, and here I am just doing what I’ve always wanted to do.”

Community Care Ambulance Network is honored to celebrate Mark Powers as a Star of Life for his lifetime of service, mentorship, and compassion.

Michelle Walsh serves as an Advanced Scope Paramedic at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Ohio. Her decision to enter EMS was inspired by a deeply personal experience: while volunteering at a charity event, her grandfather suffered cardiac arrest. Michelle performed CPR for 15 minutes until EMS arrived, ultimately saving his life. That moment set her on the path to becoming a professional lifesaver.

Michelle completed EMT and Firefighter I training at Hocking County EMS in 2017, later earning her Paramedic license from Pickaway-Ross Career and Technology Center in 2019. She joined Superior of Ohio in 2020 during its startup and quickly distinguished herself as a leader and mentor. In just five years, she has advanced to Field Training Officer, American Heart Association ACLS Instructor, and Orientation Specialist for new-hire training. She also supports Superior’s Specialty Care Transport education and skills programs, and even obtained licensure in Michigan to assist with staffing needs across state lines.

Michelle’s dedication to professional growth, education, and patient care makes her a vital part of Superior’s team and its success in Ohio.

Outside of EMS, Michelle enjoys traveling and photography, especially architectural photography. She and her husband, John, recently combined both passions on a trip to Barcelona, Spain.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to honor Michelle Walsh as a 2025 Star of Life.

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.