John Smith initially applied to Community Care Ambulance (CCA) for a Wheelchair Technician position. During John’s interview, CCA recognized his passion for caring for others, and his dedication after many years in the industry. Instead of bringing John on board as a Wheelchair Technician, CCA invited John to join the team as our Hospital Coordinator within the Marketing Department.

John began his career in the industry more than 25 years ago as a Wheelchair Technician, then advanced into a Supervisor role. For fifteen years, John collaborated with various organizations and associations to assist in teaching Wheelchair Technician courses within the state, covering topics ranging from customer service to crew and patient safety.

From John’s very first day at CCA, he has proven himself to be invaluable. John’s impeccable customer service, dedication to a job well done, and care delivered to patients is inspiring. John always has a smile on his face, even in moments of stress. John always goes above and beyond for his fellow co-workers, customers, and patients. Additionally, John works at night and on weekends, filling in where needed as a Wheelchair Technician.

John has now been part of CCA for two years in his role of Hospital Coordinator. Due to his diligence and dedication, John has been instrumental in building relationships with the staff at our local University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center. Everyone at Ahuja knows John, from the Manager of the ER, to the ladies that work in the gift shop, and John is considered part of the family.

John has dedicated his life to serving others through medical transportation as a Wheelchair Tech, Supervisor, and now as Hospital Coordinator. John is humble, kind, reliable, and goes the extra mile every day for all of our patients. John carries with him a sense of pride, respect, and integrity for his job. It is for these reasons that Community Care Ambulance is proud to recognize John as a 2017 Star of Life.

Kenneth “Ken” began serving his community through EMS in 1989 as an EMT and Firefighter, but quickly accelerated to an Advanced EMT that same year. In 1993, Ken expanded his knowledge once again and became a Paramedic. Shortly after becoming a Paramedic, Ken became an instructor with the American Heart Association. In 2001, Ken became an instructor with the National Rifle Association with the intent to educate youth in accident prevention. To further serve his community, Ken joined the Ohio Military Reserves, and also became a special topics Instructor for the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission. Continually furthering his education, Ken has since become a CICP-Paramedic. Ken strives for excellence in each patient interaction; ensuring their clinical needs as well as emotional needs are cared for to the best of his ability. Education is one the most important jobs Ken does, whether it is educating patients to alleviate fears on what will happen next in their care, mentoring new or less experienced EMT’s and Paramedics, or training for the American Heart Association.

Ken also serves as the President of the IAEP local 252 collaborating with fellow coworkers and the management team at Community Care Ambulance, and is an active member of the Safety/Wellness Committee.

Ken cares deeply about the communities he serves and has a solid rapport with the facilities in the area. Ken ensures his patients are not only cared for clinically, but emotionally as well as he attempts to ease their fears. Last year, Ken stepped up to play the important role of Santa at the Children’s Christmas Party which was a huge success. Ken is dedicated, caring and compassionate in his work.