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Tag: OK

David Swatsenbarg

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

David Swatsenbarg’s EMS journey began when he pursued his EMT licensure at the Tulsa Technology Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma two decades ago. Driven by his commitment to lifelong learning, David continued his education by enrolling at Rogers State University in Claremore, Oklahoma. There, he achieved his EMT-Intermediate credential, marking an important milestone in his EMS career. His relentless pursuit of excellence continued as he undertook the Paramedic program at Cherokee Nation EMS, earning his licensure in 2012.

In April 2017, David embarked on a new chapter of his career by joining Pafford EMS of Oklahoma as a Paramedic. In this role, David provided exemplary care in the field. He soon progressed to his current role as a Supervisor in Haskell County.

David’s dedication to helping others in times of crisis led him to complete two deployments to the US Virgin Islands, where his expertise and compassion were invaluable.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, David is a devoted father to his two children, Billy and Kaylie. During his well-deserved time off-duty, David finds solace in exploring national forests, indulging in camping adventures, and venturing off-road in his trusty Jeep.

David Swatsenbarg is widely recognized as a knowledgeable, skilled, and profoundly compassionate Paramedic. His unwavering commitment to professionalism and compassionate example have set him apart, making him a shining star within the Oklahoma EMS community. Pafford Medical Services takes immense pride in David’s achievements and contributions to the field of EMS.

Don Speicher

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Upon moving to Pawnee, Oklahoma from Pittsburg in 1977, Don asked his wife, “What can I do here”? Little did he know the path that his life was to take over the next 50 years, nor the impact he would have on countless lives.

Don started out as a rookie carpenter and concrete man, later becoming part owner of the local lumber and hardware store. He accomplished this while raising a family, serving on the local school board, and volunteering for 22 years as a firefighter.

Additionally, Don has dedicated 40-plus years to his community as an EMT, first as a Basic then progressing in 1985 to the Intermediate level. Today, he continues to serve as the training officer, keeping the department up-to-date on certifications and new techniques. Recently Don received a federal grant to teach, retain, and equip more EMTs in the rural area.

Don is always willing to teach if one is willing to learn. He always looks to give a hand up, not a handout.

Oh, the stories he could tell about the changes he has seen over the past 40 years in rural emergency medicine. Our department and the community are grateful for his service and contributions. Pawnee Ambulance Service is honored to name Mr. Don Speicher as a Star of Life.

Don Speicher represents the state of Oklahoma as a 2023 Oklahoma Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Joshua Morgan

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Southern Oklahoma Ambulance is proud to present Josh Morgan as an outstanding star in EMS. Josh is a dedicated healthcare professional with a career spanning more than 18 years. He began his journey as an EMT at AMR in 2005, subsequently expanding his skills and knowledge across several services statewide. Achieving his Paramedic certification in 2010 marked a key milestone in his career, bolstered further when he became a certified Flight Paramedic for Air Evac Life Team.

Outside of his primary profession, Josh spent more than 12 years as a volunteer firefighter at Corum and Meridian Volunteer Fire Departments, showcasing his unwavering commitment to serving his community. His passion for helping others extends beyond the physical realm of healthcare as he is currently pursuing a master’s degree in medical health counseling, with a specific focus on trauma.

His goal is to provide invaluable peer support to EMS agencies, with an ardent desire to help his colleagues avoid developing PTSD and burnout. As a devoted husband to his wonderful wife Allison for 29 years and a proud father to Lilyan, Wyatt, and Jenson, Josh is a true family man.

Joshua Morgan represents the state of Oklahoma as a 2023 Oklahoma Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Mason Meadows

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Mason Meadows has been a dedicated member of the REACT Emergency Medical Service team for more than five years. During this time he has progressed from EMT to a Paramedic.

Mason’s colleagues applaud his positive attitude and reliability. Coworkers note that he is “dependable, and keeps his truck impeccable,” is a “great Paramedic and partner,” and that, “you can count on Mason during critical calls.”

Outside of REACT EMS, Mason balances family life with his wife, Brittany, and their children, Kaiden, Chandler, and Colton. He also volunteers at the Maud Oklahoma Fire Department and has a passion for trout fishing and gardening.

Thank you, Mason Meadows, for all you do for REACT EMS and the communities we serve. REACT EMS is proud to name Mason Meadows a 2023 Star of Life.

Gage Askew

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Gage Askew has lent his talents to REACT EMS for more than five years. Gage serves in many roles at REACT, including Paramedic, Field Training Officer, and Relief Supervisor.

Quotes from Gage’s coworkers note that he, “sets a great example for new employees,”, is “always willing to help,”, and has“great knowledge of REACT EMS operations.”

When not serving the citizens of REACT’s response area, Gage enjoys spending time with his wife Aubrey, and their children, Talon, Blakely, and Graycen. In his free time, Gage enjoys camping with his family, fishing, and being outdoors.

Thank you, Gage Askew, for all you do for REACT EMS and the communities we serve. REACT  is proud to honor Gage Askew as a 2023 Star of Life.

Tiffany Allen

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Tiffany joined REACT EMS in January 2015, when she came to work in the Billing office. Since that time, Tiffany has attended EMT school and earned her EMT license. Tiffany has continued her education and is a Certified Ambulance Coder, Certified Ambulance Compliance Officer, Certified Ambulance Privacy Officer, and Certified Documentation Specialist. Tiffany currently serves as the Billing Supervisor and oversees all aspects of the revenue cycle management for REACT EMS’s 13,000-14,000 calls per year.

Along with her billing responsibilities, Tiffany makes use of her EMT certification by filling in on trucks when the service is short, or the call volume is high. She also steps up to cover special events and most recently responded to assist REACT EMS after a tornado struck Shawnee. She valiantly left her own family to care for the citizens of our community.

Tiffany is very well-liked among our employees and has a reputation for being very dependable and goal-oriented. REACT EMS runs more smoothly and efficiently thanks to her efforts.

Tiffany is married to her beloved husband, Rantz. She has two children and four stepchildren. In her spare time, she enjoys time with her family and cruising the Caribbean.

REACT is honored to recognize Tiffany Allen as a 2023 Star of Life.

Mason Pereira

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Mason Pereira has worked for REACT EMS since January 2015. Shortly after joining REACT, Mason earned his Paramedic certification and has worked as a REACT Paramedic since that time. Mason also currently serves as a field training officer and relief supervisor at REACT. Mason has worked multiple schedules to meet the needs of his community. He is always ready to lend a hand to colleagues as they work together to surmount challenges and provide excellent care to patients.

Mason’s co-workers note that he “is very knowledgeable,” and is “a brilliant teacher”. Mason is also known as a very caring and compassionate Paramedic who is always willing to help anyone in need. When asked about his favorite part of EMS, Mason said, “I like to be the one that people call for help because I know what to do in an emergency.”

Mason is married to Jessica, and they are proud parents to three children. In his spare time, Mason enjoys spending time with his family and artwork, such as drawing. He also considers himself quite the movie buff.

It is with great pleasure that we present Mason Pereira as a 2023 REACT EMS Star of Life.

Nicole Hart

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Nicole Hart’s EMS journey landed her at LifeNet in Stillwater, Oklahoma in January of 2020. She quickly drew the respect of her coworkers and developed a camaraderie with others as our nation struggled through the most significant pandemic in a century. Her work with new employees, and EMTs transitioning into medics, made Nicole an excellent candidate to serve as Field Training Officer. After achieving that goal, she successfully competed to become an Operations Supervisor for the area. In addition to her workplace efforts, Nicole became an adjunct faculty member of an initial EMS education program in the state.
These leadership efforts were recognized in the comments of Nicole’s peers as they nominated her to be our 2023 Star of Life. One said, “She goes above and beyond to make the workplace better for everyone and takes a no-nonsense approach to her leadership.” Another comment read, “Nicole is great at teaching new employees and encouraging others to do the same.” The sentiment of many was eloquently captured by one nomination that read simply, “She works (hard) and is always so nice to everyone!”
That recognized approach, and Nicole’s steadfast commitment to quality and learning, recently led Nicole to accept a position as Clinical Services Manager for the region. We are excited to see where she will take our EMS providers with her fresh education opportunities and Quality Improvement initiatives. It should be clear that Nicole represents the best in EMS, and we are proud to have her represent LifeNet.

Zachary Zeiler

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Paramedic Zachary (Zach) Zeiler was nominated for Stars of Life by EMT Ashlynn Gregory. Zach has worked at EMSA in the Eastern Division for three years.

“Even on high stress calls, Zach stays focused on the best way to provide patient care and advocacy. He is always diligent in practicing teamwork as a partner and with other agencies. I have never met a Paramedic more adamant about holding himself accountable,” Gregory wrote in her nomination.

EMSA Field Operations Supervisor David Yales said, “Zach is always eager to help out. He is well-liked and respected by the team. He remains positive. He’s always happy to assist and teach newer team members. He’s coachable and honest.”

Zach never flinches when asked to help and often helps without being asked. He is a team-first medic every EMS service would be lucky to have.

Zach spends his time away from EMSA with his fiance, Madelyn.

Michael Wilson

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

EMSA Advantage Instructor Michael Wilson was nominated as a Star of Life by Western Division Clinical Services Manager David Gooshaw. Michael has worked at EMSA in the Western Division since 2016.

“Michael’s focus is taking individuals who have no EMS experience and mentoring them through an EMT certification course. Mike takes his time and gives 100% to each one of the students. He makes himself available to them 24/7 during and after the course is completed. Michael also serves the community by working several street shifts on an ambulance on his weekends off,” Gooshaw said in his nomination.

Michael’s Supervisor, Tina Mathes, EMSA Director of Clinical Services, noted that even after students have left Michael’s classroom he continues to stay connected to them as a coach and a mentor. Day and night, he ensures they know he is their advocate at EMSA as long as they’re a member of the team.

Michael helped launch EMSA’s in-house EMT School, EMSA Advantage – and has helped set the bar high for his students. This successful program has helped our operations in Oklahoma City make positive strides many thought would be impossible in the last year and a half.

In his free time, Michael enjoys spending time with his beloved family.

Sharrie Barnes

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Patient Business Services Prebilling Supervisor Sharrie Barnes was nominated by EMSA Verifier Lori Yanez. Sharrie has worked at EMSA since 2014. “I enjoy working with my team to overcome obstacles and improve processes to make our department more effective. EMSA has always made me feel appreciated,” says Sharrie.

“At the beginning of 2022, our ENTIRE management team left our department, abruptly, with no warning. It was pretty scary but Sharrie stepped up and took control and kept us all encouraged throughout the process. We fell behind, as some of our team members left us as well, but Sharrie advocated for our department to get the help we needed, and as of today we are back on track for our department’s goals of executing the billing cycle. I am so proud of her and thankful for leadership throughout this process,” Yanez said in her nomination.

Sharrie’s Supervisor, Sonia Coleman, EMSA Director of Revenue Cycle Management, said that Sharrie is always an advocate for patients and works tirelessly to make sure they are taken care of after their transport to the hospital. When not working at EMSA, Sharrie enjoys spending time with her family.

David Bingham

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Fulfillment is found in many ways; and for EMSA Paramedic David Bingham it centers around one thing – helping others. Whether making a patient smile, mentoring students and new recruits, or taking care of critically sick and injured patients, David enjoys seeing the difference he can make.

David relentlessly checks up on his fellow team members. He is cognizant of the fact that this job takes a toll no matter how much experience you have, and is transparent about struggles. David checks in on other team members after difficult calls, long weeks, or busy nights. Despite how fatigued he may be, David always puts others above himself.

David joined the EMSA team in 2018 and has thrived in a busy system, rising through the ranks to the positions of Field Training Officer and Assistant District Chief. David maintains the REMSS trailer which is deployed for large events in EMSA’s Western Division, including the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. He says, “There is so much to do at EMSA – your opportunities are abundant as long as you are willing to chase them.”

Brett Palmatary

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

EMSA Paramedic and Assistant District Chief Brett Palmatary knew early on that a career in emergency medical services was right for him. In high school, Brett began teaching CPR and Lifeguard classes at the American Red Cross, which was next door to the local EMS agency. He spent a lot of time talking to the Paramedics who worked next door, learning the ins and outs of their careers. Brett was intrigued, and soon began pursuing a career in EMS.

Brett hails from Fort Smith, Arkansas, and joined the EMSA team in 2016. He was a founding member of EMSA’s Peer Support Team, which strives to improve the quality of life for team members by providing support and resources after stressful calls. Brett also serves as an Assistant District Chief and Incident Command at Special Events. He truly believes EMSA is at its best when every member of the team is working toward the same goals.
Brett is described by his coworkers as having “a servant’s heart,” which is reflected in his daily duties of meeting the needs of his patients, colleagues, and community. Brett has a unique ability to lead his team, while still remaining approachable and trusted.

Brett places a high value on continuing education for EMS providers. He says, “It takes a lot of time and effort; however, it is all worth it in the end.”

 

Kendra Vermillion

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Kendra Rene Vermillion was born in Seiling, OK and graduated from Seiling Public Schools in 2009. She continued her education at Northern Oklahoma College, where she also played JUCO Division II basketball, and graduated with honors in 2011. During her two years at NOC, Kendra assisted her basketball team in reaching the National Tournament twice and the Final Four during her Sophomore year. This was the first time in NOC’s history that the women’s JUCO basketball team reached the National Tournament.

After graduating, Kendra found her love for EMS when she attended a Basic EMT class in Enid, OK and developed a passion for caring for others. Kendra began her career at Life EMS in 2015, and obtained her Advanced EMT license at Redlands Community College in 2017.

In addition to running full-time on the ambulance, Kendra is constantly looking for ways to improve the service. She created and implemented Life’s EMT and AEMT orientation and training program, which earned her the title Senior Field Training Officer. Kendra is well respected by her coworkers and emergency department personnel for her professional demeanor and medical knowledge.

When not at work, Kendra enjoys spending time with her husband, Life EMS’s Star from five years ago, and their four dogs.

Life EMS is proud to have Kendra as its 2022 Star of Life.

Kendra Rene Vermillion is the 2022 Oklahoma Ambulance Association Star of Life.

 

Arlyn Hatch

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Arlyn Hatch joined Life EMS as an EMT in 2018. Over the past few years, he has also obtained his Paramedic license and become a Field Training Officer for Life EMS. These many accomplishments in a short amount of time are proof of Arlyn’s strong work ethic and dedication to his community and his fellow coworkers.

Arlyn has always wanted to be in a field that helps and serves his community, though his real push to become a Medic was the untimely passing of his daughter. He began his career in 2013 with Garber Fire Department as an EMR/Firefighter. In 2018, Arlyn started basic training at Autry Technology Center and then pursued his career at Life EMS. In 2019, he enrolled at OSU-OKC to continue his education and he became a Paramedic in 2020. He has now proudly served his hometown community of Enid for eight years.

Arlyn always strives to better himself and to help those in need. These admirable qualities shine through not just in his job, but also in his care and devotion towards his four children, Dexter, Madolynn, Adyn and Eisley. His interests outside of serving his community include fishing and watching OU football. Boomer Sooner!

Tara Henry

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Tara began her EMS career in 2001 when she joined EMSA as an EMT-Basic and an Emergency Medical Dispatcher. In 2002, Tara found her home at Muskogee County EMS, working both as an EMT and an Emergency Medical Dispatcher. She went on to become an EMT-Intermediate and an Emergency Medical Dispatcher Quality Improvement Officer. Throughout the years, Tara has dedicated herself to the Communications Department, working her way up as a Communications Training Officer, QA/QI Supervisor, and now the Communications Center Supervisor. She has focused on improving the training program and the overall culture of the dispatch center.

Tara has been married to Dave Henry for 17 years and together they have three children. Although their oldest son, Braden, has recently moved out of the house, Tara keeps busy with her two adopted children, Maddex, who is involved with the Special Olympics, and Jensyn, who attends cheerleading competitions. Tara is very blessed with her life and her family that she cherishes.

Tara loves the people that she works with and takes great pride in seeing their success. She constantly demonstrates knowledge of dispatching and company procedures, and she shares her knowledge and experiences with the employees to ensure their success as well. Tara is now taking on the challenge of re-accreditation for the Muskogee County EMS Dispatch Center of Excellence. Muskogee County EMS is honored to present Tara Henry as American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Tara Henry is being nominated due to her phenomenal work ethic throughout her career with Muskogee County EMS. It is time for her to be recognized for all of her hard work behind-the-scenes of the Communication Center, and for her efforts related to re-accreditation for Muskogee County EMS Dispatch Center of Excellence.

Tara Henry is being honored as a Star of Life due to her phenomenal work ethic throughout her career with Muskogee County EMS. She has been under-recognized for all her hard work behind the scenes of the Communication Center and for her efforts to meet the new challenge of re-accreditation for Muskogee County EMS Dispatch Center of Excellence.

Russell Friske

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Service has been the common thread running through Rusty Friske’s professional life. Rusty joined the EMSA team in August 2014, shortly after receiving his EMT certification. He had intended to join the fire service, but fell in love with medicine. Rusty earned his Paramedic certification in August 2016 and has since become a part-time Clinical Coordinator. He is responsible for leading the EMSA Field Training Officer program, and has taken responsibility for helping EMTs successfully transition to Paramedic roles. Rusty has received numerous kudos for excellent patient care and customer service during his time at EMSA.

Before entering the EMS field, Rusty worked as a youth pastor and then as a YMCA Director. Doing for others – patients, colleagues, parishioners, campers, and strangers – fulfills Rusty, and he and his wife encourage their young daughters to possess servants’s hearts as well. The family has adopted the values of faith, respect, integrity, sacrifice, kindness, and excellence (an acronym of “Friske”) and discuss how to align their lives with these values daily.

 

Rachel Evans

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Emergency Medical Services is in Rachel Evans’s blood. Rachel joined EMSA fresh out of EMT school in March 2015 and ended up working alongside many of the same people her Paramedic father had decades earlier. Rachel earned her Paramedic certification, with valedictorian honors, in July 2017. Since then, she has made teaching others her mission. That includes Rachel’s partners, her patients, and the most recent group of EMSA EMTs to complete Paramedic school; they recognized Rachel for the hours she spent helping them to succeed. Rachel credits her grandmother, a long-time teacher, with helping her understand the importance of sharing what she has learned with others.

Last year, Rachel received a special administrative award for her professionalism and leadership. She has been recognized many times for providing excellent clinical care and demonstrating strong teamwork, and her patient care documentation is superb. An avid runner, Rachel has competed in half and full marathons, including the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. However, Rachel claims that she is most proud of the fact that her colleagues say that they would trust her to provide emergency care to their family members. 

 

Howard Halcomb

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Howard “Punky” Halcomb has been volunteering in emergency services for 47 years. He began his career as a Firefighter at the Pond Creek Fire Department in 1972. He served as Assistant Fire Chief for several years before serving as Chief from 1998 to 2006. He continues to have a major impact in the community as a Firefighter, Emergency Medical Responder, and Emergency Manager.

Punky’s leadership was crucial in establishing emergency medical services in Pond Creek and the surrounding areas. In 1974, Punky became one of the first registered EMTs in his area, and in 1975, at the request of the local funeral home, Punky and three other members of the fire department assumed the responsibility of providing transportation and care to the sick and injured using the funeral home hearse. By the late 1970s, Pond Creek Fire Department was able to purchase its first ambulance to provide emergency care. As the department grew, he continued to play a vital role in serving the community and still has a major impact today.

When not on fire or medical calls, Punky spends much of his free time at the station working on equipment or making much needed improvements. He still carries more responsibilities than most, including communications, storm spotting, tornado siren testing, and hydrant testing. He also volunteers his time at the school teaching the fire safety program.

Punky shares his passion for emergency medical services with his wife, Sara. She has served as a Firefighter and EMT for 24 years, and together they have helped countless people in their time of need, often working together on the same truck. Punky also handed his love for serving down to his son, Brandon. Brandon has made a career in emergency services as a full time Firefighter and Advanced EMT in Oklahoma. Punky has two other children, Mindy and Nicholas, both of whom have successful careers in other fields.

Pond Creek Fire and EMS is honored to recognize Punky Halcomb as a 2019 Star of Life Award nominee.

Joshua Lawler

Written by Aaron Director on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Joshua Lawler has served REACT Ambulance Authority for more than six years. During this time, he has used his many skills to benefit his community as a Single Response Paramedic, a Field Training Officer, and a Relief Supervisor.

Joshua was one of the first Paramedics assigned to a rural section of REACT’s response territory. Here, he was responsible for solo quick response to critical calls in under-served areas. Joshua worked with local first responders to form a team response to emergencies in many small communities. Joshua has also worked with senior citizen groups to set up medical screening days at senior centers throughout the area.

Joshua’s coworkers commend him as a “trusted and valuable asset,” and praise him for being “experienced, going above and beyond, stepping up over the years and contributing in multiple positions.”

Joshua is involved in the local Accredited Paramedic program at Gordon Cooper Technology Center. Joshua is an adjunct instructor in the lab, he lectures in the classroom, and has been involved in developing their new online Paramedic program.

When not serving the citizens of REACT’s response area, Joshua enjoys spending time with his wife, Erin, and their son, Killian.

REACT Ambulance Authority is proud to call Joshua Lawler a 2019 Star of Life.