Jeannie Lewis serves as an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) with Spirit EMS, where her remarkable work ethic, compassion, and determination have earned the admiration of her colleagues and the communities she serves.

Jeannie joined Spirit EMS in 2023 as a part-time wheelchair van driver while working full-time at a local manufacturing plant to support her family. Even while balancing those responsibilities, she pursued her dream of serving others by enrolling in an accelerated six-week EMT program. She successfully earned her certification and soon committed herself fully to a profession she had grown to love.

Jeannie quickly became known as someone her coworkers could count on. She routinely volunteered for overtime and stepped forward whenever additional staffing was needed. In 2025 alone, Jeannie worked an extraordinary 4,045 hours for Spirit EMS. Her commitment was driven not simply by a willingness to work, but by a genuine desire to serve patients, support her colleagues, and ensure her community had access to care when it was needed. Determined to continue growing as a clinician, Jeannie furthered her education and earned her Advanced EMT certification in 2025.

Her dedication did not go unnoticed. Jeannie’s peers selected her as Spirit EMS Employee of the Year, the organization’s highest employee recognition. Chosen by a majority vote of her coworkers, the honor reflected the respect she had earned for her compassion, dependability, positive attitude, and extraordinary commitment to service.

Shortly after receiving that recognition, Jeannie began facing a challenge far removed from anything she had encountered on an ambulance. Following recurring illness, increasing pain, multiple hospitalizations, and extensive testing, she was diagnosed with Stage III pancreatic cancer. Even as she confronted pain, uncertainty, and frequent medical appointments, Jeannie continued reporting for duty whenever she was able, remaining focused on caring for her patients and supporting her coworkers.

Eventually, her physicians urged her to step away from work and focus fully on treatment and recovery. Although she has been away from the ambulance, Jeannie has approached this difficult chapter with the same perseverance, optimism, faith, and determination that have characterized her EMS career. She continues to speak of her hope of returning to the profession and patients she loves.

Jeannie’s journey is a testament to service and perseverance—from working multiple jobs while earning her EMT certification, to advancing as an AEMT, to answering countless calls and supporting her coworkers whenever they needed her. Now, she brings that same determination to the fight of her life. Through every challenge, Jeannie continues to inspire the Spirit EMS family with her courage, compassion, and enduring commitment to others.

Spirit EMS is proud to recognize Jeannie Lewis as a Star of Life.

Curt Garrison serves as Operations Manager for Spirit EMS, where his leadership, innovation, and commitment to service have helped advance the organization while supporting the professionals and communities it serves.

Curt joined Spirit EMS in spring 2020 as an experienced Paramedic assigned to the Greenville station. His abilities as a problem-solver and leader quickly became evident, leading him from Project Manager to Captain of Night Shift Operations and, in 2026, to Operations Manager. Today, he oversees the daily operational demands of a growing EMS organization while managing strategic projects designed to position Spirit EMS for the future.

With experience in construction and municipal management, Curt brings an unusual combination of clinical knowledge, operational expertise, and practical problem-solving to EMS leadership. Affectionately known within Spirit EMS as the “Project Guy,” he has earned a reputation for turning ideas into reality. From coordinating construction and working with contractors and inspectors to addressing complex operational challenges, Curt approaches each assignment with attention to detail, persistence, and a determination to get the job done well.

Curt is equally committed to developing people. Supervisors, captains, station managers, and emerging leaders regularly seek his guidance and benefit from his experience and sound judgment. He views leadership not simply as a position of authority, but as a responsibility to help others succeed. By generously sharing his knowledge and investing time in others, Curt is helping prepare the next generation of Spirit EMS leaders.

Among his most significant projects is the development of the $2.5 million John & Iris Hathaway Education and Community Center. Curt has worked alongside contractors, inspectors, government officials, and community stakeholders to help bring the facility from vision to reality while continuing to manage daily EMS operations. The center is designed to serve as a home for EMT, Advanced EMT, and Paramedic education as well as community CPR, First Aid, and AED training, creating new opportunities for workforce development, professional advancement, and public education. Curt is also helping lead plans for “The Milk House,” an ice cream and sandwich shop envisioned as a community destination and sustainable source of support for the organization’s mission.

Curt’s commitment to service extends beyond EMS. He leads the Grace Resurrection Community Center food pantry and clothing ministry, helping provide food, clothing, and support to individuals and families in need throughout Darke County. This work reflects the same servant-minded approach he brings to his professional leadership.

Despite the scope of his responsibilities, Curt remains deeply devoted to his family. He and his wife, Kellie, are proud parents of Abigail, Andrea, and Arianne. Curt especially enjoys family vacations on the water and the opportunity to make memories with those closest to him.

Whether leading daily operations, mentoring future leaders, overseeing a multimillion-dollar community project, or helping neighbors in need, Curt consistently turns service into action. His vision, humility, work ethic, and dedication have made a lasting impact on Spirit EMS and the community it serves. Spirit EMS is proud to recognize Paramedic Curt Garrison as a Star of Life.

Ashley Baker serves as a Paramedic Captain with Spirit EMS of Ohio, where her commitment to patient care, leadership, mentorship, and service has made a lasting impact on both her colleagues and the communities Spirit EMS serves.

A respected leader among her peers, Ashley was selected by a majority vote of fellow employees as Spirit EMS’ Supervisor of the Year. The recognition reflects the trust and respect she has earned through her calm demeanor, practical leadership style, and genuine desire to help others succeed. Colleagues regularly seek her guidance, knowing they will find a leader who listens, encourages collaboration, and works alongside her team.

Ashley is particularly passionate about developing the next generation of EMS professionals. She dedicates significant time to mentoring new EMTs and Paramedics, sharing clinical knowledge, developing leadership skills, and helping providers build confidence in their abilities. Her influence can be seen in the many EMS professionals she has coached and encouraged throughout their careers.

Her leadership also extends to Spirit EMS’ continued growth. Ashley helped interview candidates and prepare for the opening of the organization’s seventh satellite station in Columbus, Ohio. She served as a liaison with area hospitals and healthcare facilities, helping staff understand and use Spirit EMS’ online scheduling portal for non-emergency and prescheduled ambulance transportation. Her work helped establish relationships with healthcare partners and support the organization’s expansion into a new market.

Ashley also manages the complex responsibility of staffing and scheduling for a large and diverse workforce while helping coordinate personnel, equipment, and supplies for disaster deployments. Her attention to detail and commitment to preparedness help ensure that Spirit EMS remains operationally ready, whether responding to everyday community needs or answering the call during large-scale emergencies.

Beyond EMS, Ashley brings that same extraordinary capacity for caring to her family. She is the devoted mother of seven children and makes every effort to remain present for their games, school functions, and milestones despite the demands of her career. Her generosity has extended to other families as well: Ashley chose to serve as a surrogate mother, giving two families an opportunity to grow their own families while continuing her responsibilities as a Paramedic and EMS leader.

Away from work, Ashley enjoys camping, spending time on the water, and making memories with her family. Her competitive side also appears at home, where an 85-inch television she received as recognition has created a new family competition: who gets control of the remote.

Ashley is a Paramedic, mentor, leader, advocate, and devoted mother whose influence reaches far beyond her job description. Through her commitment to developing others, strengthening operations, preparing for emergencies, and serving patients and families, she demonstrates the compassion and servant leadership at the heart of EMS. Spirit EMS of Ohio is proud to recognize Ashley Baker as a Star of Life.

Douglas “Doug” Smith is an Advanced Scope Paramedic and Columbus Station Manager for Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio with 14 years of EMS experience. Since joining Superior through its acquisition of Columbus Connection, Doug has advanced from EMT to Advanced Scope Paramedic and ultimately Station Manager, building a career defined by accountability, leadership, and a commitment to developing others.

Doug began his EMS career after earning his Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification from Columbus State Community College in 2012. Throughout his career, he has served as an EMT, dispatcher, Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU) driver, firefighter/EMT, and Paramedic. He is also an EMS instructor and American Heart Association BLS, ACLS, and PALS instructor and maintains multiple emergency management and Incident Command System certifications.

As Columbus Station Manager, Doug combines operational leadership with a genuine investment in the success of others. He mentors new station managers, coaches field personnel to strengthen patient care, and serves as a trusted resource for leadership development. His approach emphasizes accountability, continuous improvement, and the understanding that strong leaders have a responsibility to help those around them succeed.

Doug’s service extends beyond his daily responsibilities at Superior. He volunteers with a local search and rescue organization and has taken leadership roles during complex special events. His contributions include helping lead Superior’s successful operations at the Lost Lands Festival, where careful planning, teamwork, and operational coordination are essential to supporting a large-scale event.

Throughout his career, Doug has earned the respect of colleagues through his professionalism, reliability, empathy, and willingness to accept responsibility. His progression through numerous clinical and operational roles gives him an understanding of the challenges faced by the people he now leads and allows him to mentor others from a foundation of firsthand experience.

Through his dedication to patients, investment in employee development, operational leadership, and continued service to his community, Doug represents the values at the heart of EMS. His accountability, stewardship, empathy, and reliability have made him a valued leader and a positive influence on the EMS professionals around him. Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Ohio is proud to recognize Doug Smith as a Star of Life.

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.