Joe Scott has been a dedicated member of Medix Ambulance in Warrenton, OR since 2016. He began his EMS career in a wheelchair van, quickly obtaining his EMT license within a few months. Joe has since worked full-time on the ambulance, consistently striving to advance his career and enhance the level of care he provides.

In 2022, Joe earned his Paramedic certification from the National Medical Education & Training Center in West Bridgewater, MA, as part of Medix’s tuition assistance program. Since obtaining his Paramedic credentials, Joe has swiftly climbed the ranks, becoming a Field Training Officer and Shift Lead. He also served on the company’s safety committee, holding the roles of Safety Officer and Chairperson. In addition, Joe taught the Advanced EMT course at a local community college in 2022, further demonstrating his commitment to education and mentorship.

Before his EMS career, Joe studied music with a focus on percussion and worked as an arranger and instructor for high school marching bands and percussion ensembles. He is currently pursuing his CCP-C certification to expand his knowledge and provide exceptional care to his patients.

Medix Ambulance Service is proud to nominate Joe Scott as a 2024 Star of Life for his dedication, leadership, and commitment to the EMS profession.

Don Marr has served his community through EMS and EMS education for more than 40 years. During that time, he has held the positions of EMS Program Coordinator and Lead Instructor at Southwestern Oregon Community College, Training Officer for Bay Cities Ambulance, Education Specialist at Bay Area Hospital, Senior NCO for the Oregon Army National Guard Medical Training Team, and Emergency Medical Response Coordinator for the US Navy in the Emergency Management Office at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, home of the 5th Fleet.

Don has been a guest instructor in the two medical schools in Lithuania as a team member providing the first ACLS training in Lithuania, and at the medical school in Bahrain mentoring the instructors setting up and providing the first Pediatric Advanced Life Support training and certification in Bahrain. While in Bahrain Don taught the “Medical Response to Weapons of Mass Destruction Course” to US Navy medical personnel and doctors, nurses, and Paramedics from Salmaniya Medical Center, Bahrain. Don is currently a Paramedic and Paramedic Preceptor at Bay Cities Ambulance.

Don enjoys going on long-distance motorcycle ride as well as helping his wife of 43 years with her collection of chickens, ducks, and geese.

Thank you, Don Marr, for all that you do to support Bay Cities Ambulance and the communities we serve.

Jason Hodges, Operations Supervisor and Honor Guard Commander for American Medical Response in Washington County, Oregon, is being honored for his unwavering selflessness and dedication to his patients and team members. Since joining the AMR Honor Guard in 2011, Jason has been an active participant in numerous memorials and events supporting both AMR and affiliated organizations. As the current Commander of the Honor Guard for the Oregon/Southwest Washington region, Jason goes above and beyond to ensure that each memorial event is flawlessly executed and that the families affected are well taken care of.

In addition to his Honor Guard responsibilities, Jason extends his compassion and leadership to his fellow crew members, often acting as a mentor in times of need. In 2023, he joined the Multnomah County leadership team as a relief supervisor, seamlessly transitioning into this role and quickly earning the respect and admiration of his field medics. Jason’s commitment to his team and the community is evident through his actions, consistently going above and beyond the call of duty.

Jason has also deployed to disaster-stricken areas, assisting vulnerable citizens in the aftermath of hurricanes and wildfires, exemplifying the GMR mission of providing care to the world at a moment’s notice. His selfless dedication and leadership make him an invaluable asset to the EMS profession, and American Medical Response is proud to recognize Jason Hodges as a Star of Life.

Jorge Garcia, an Emergency Medical Technician at Umpqua Valley Ambulance, joined the EMS profession in 2019. He is currently completing Paramedic School, furthering his passion for caring for his community—a passion he has nurtured from a young age. Initially finding his calling as a Pastor in his church, Jorge later expanded his service to the medical field, where he continues to make a significant impact.

In addition to his EMT career and paramedic studies, Jorge remains active in his church, volunteers with his local Fire Department, and enjoys experimenting with cooking. He’s particularly famous among friends and colleagues for his habanero chicken mac and cheese.

Jorge is recognized by his supervisor and peers as a spirited, intellectual individual who consistently goes above and beyond to provide exceptional care and comfort to his patients. He lives by the personal motto: “A mission given is a mission complete.”

Jorge’s dedication to his profession and his community has made him an invaluable asset to Umpqua Valley Ambulance. The company is proud to nominate Jorge Garcia as a 2024 Star of Life, honoring his commitment, compassion, and unwavering love for EMS.

Cassandra Clark, a Paramedic at Medix Ambulance Service, has been an integral part of the team since becoming one of the first Paramedics at our Longview, Washington location. With ten years of experience, she has worked in a wide range of environments, from extremely rural areas to high-volume urban emergency response.

Cassandra’s passion for healthcare began at a young age. Inspired by her mother, who worked in skilled nursing facilities and hospitals, Cassandra spent her youth volunteering at the assisted living facility her mother managed. Her interest in emergency medical services was sparked when her father enrolled her in an EMT course at the Lovelock Volunteer Fire Department, and she’s been committed to the field ever since.

In addition to her role as a Paramedic, Cassandra serves as an EMT and Paramedic Training Assistant, helping manage training and recertification for her colleagues. She also works as an on-shift supervisor, supporting her team with her leadership and experience.

Medix Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Cassandra Clark as a 2024 Star of Life for her dedication, expertise, and contributions to both her team and the community she serves.

Aubree Arneson is being recognized for her clinical expertise, which led to the successful resuscitation of a cardiac arrest patient. Aubree was off duty, working out at the gym when the person on the exercise machine next to her went down. Aubree recognized the signs of cardiac arrest, calmly had someone call 911, retrieved the gym’s AED and initiated CPR with the help of a gym employee. Together they applied the AED and performed CPR until an ambulance arrived, then assisted the crew in treating and transporting the patient. The patient had a return of spontaneous circulation shortly after the ambulance arrived. Aubree’s quick, calm and precise response to this sudden cardiac arrest greatly improved the odds of this positive outcome.

Aubree became an EMT about six years ago, then progressed to the Advanced EMT level two years ago. She plans to continue to advance her career by taking the Intermediate EMT course when it becomes available. She is also known for always helping fellow team members by taking on additional duties and sharing her skills and knowledge.

Daniel Lee distinguished himself through courage and skill by going beyond the call of duty to rescue his fellow crew members after the unthinkable happened.

On an afternoon in May 2022, Lee picked up a shift on an AL3 Klamath helicopter to help out his team and keep the aircraft in service. He, along with a newly hired registered nurse, a respiratory therapist, and the pilot had completed one call. While sitting on the helipad, the team was dispatched to another hospital. Arriving at the scene, the aircraft lost stability and crashed.

Lee reacted quickly and pulled all remaining crew members from the damaged aircraft. He triaged his peers based on acuity, started IVs on everyone, and gave medications as appropriate. He continued to care for and advocate for his team, even though he was also injured. He made sure everyone had help and insisted on staying with the newest team member to make her feel safe.

His quick thinking and expertise saved lives that day.

Demonstrating that EMS, at times, requires more than medical skill to save lives, Sean Fuller is being honored for his actions when dispatched to a suicide attempt. Fuller’s supervisors highlighted the humanity that Sean brought to a situation that is often tense and difficult for patients and first responders alike.

By coincidence, Sean recognized the emotionally fragile patient’s home as formerly belonging to the family of one of his childhood friends. While providing medical treatment, he helped the patient stabilize with stories of the times he had spent there, which had proved to be a blessing in Sean’s life. By the end of the transport, the patient was not only calm, but was laughing along with Sean, when mere minutes before the patient had been holding a suicide note and threatening to harm themselves.

Upon arrival at the hospital, staff determined that restraints were no longer needed. They were then able to provide continued care in a de-escalated environment, which was better for everyone.

Carol Boies has proudly served as an EMT at Falck Northwest Ambulance for more than four years. Residing in Salem, Oregon with her family, Carol continues her committed service at Falck Northwest.

In May 2023, Carol and her partner were dispatched to a harrowing scene: a 9-year-old girl, showing signs of abuse, was discovered unconscious, face down in cold bathwater. Upon assessment, the young patient was in a persistent PEA state and her body temperature had dropped significantly. Without hesitation, Carol and her paramedic partner initiated full ACLS and CPR. Despite their intense efforts over 45 minutes, the child’s rhythm remained unchanged. However, they noted a persistent and steady nominal ETCO2 reading. As Carol consistently delivered high-quality CPR, her partner successfully established an airway.

Despite the lack of observable improvement in the patient’s condition, the team made the decisive choice to transport her to the hospital, holding onto the hope that her cold presentation might prove beneficial in a medical setting.

Upon arrival at Salem Hospital, the young girl was immediately placed on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), resulting in the return of her pulses. Her recovery journey continued at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU), where she showed remarkable progress. Recently, she was discharged from the hospital, not only capable of speaking and communicating but also actively participating in an ongoing investigation with law enforcement.

The successful recovery of this child stands as a testament to the impeccable CPR skills, judicious decisions, and unyielding persistence displayed by Carol and her partner. Their swift actions not only saved a young life but also paved the way for the wheels of justice to turn. Above all, this young girl has been given a second chance at life, and thanks to the heroism of Carol and her partner, her future looks promising.

Don started his EMS career over 37 years ago as an EMT/Firefighter in Astoria, Oregon. While he enjoyed being a firefighter, he fell in love with the EMS side of the job.

As such, 19 years ago, Don came to Medix Ambulance as a Paramedic Supervisor. Three years ago, Don progressed to overseeing the operations in our newest division in Longview, Washington.

Don’s dedication to his job, the company, and the care of our patients has been a huge part of Medix’s continued success.

Don has been married to his high school sweetheart for 35 years. Together they share three beloved children. The couple adores doting on their four grandchildren.

Medix is proud to call Don Thomas a 2023 Star of Life.

“Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”
—J.K. Rowling.

Kristina Ploeger’s passion is to serve as a light for others during their worst moments. This drive stems from her humble upbringing in Arizona, which instilled in her values that paved the way for the person she is today. Kristina realized at a young age what was important to her; family, health, and happiness.

In that spirit, Kristina launched her healthcare career in 2002 caring for dementia patients. A few years later, she started volunteering as a Firefighter with Columbia River Fire in St Helen’s, Oregon. It was there that Kristina quickly realized she had found more than a career—she found her destiny. Kristina graduated from college, earned her Paramedic license, and spent 17 years working for Metro West Ambulance in Hillsboro, Oregon.

Last year, in search of a change of scenery, Kristina and her family moved to Idaho where she became licensed as a real estate agent. A few months later, when she learned that Metro West had become the ambulance provider for Baker County, Oregon, she couldn’t pass up the opportunity to serve at Metro West again. Kristina has spent many years providing great patient care. Now she has taken on the role of helping to build and grow a new division for the company.

Kristina’s spare time is often spent with the Coast Guard Auxiliary promoting water safety. Kristina is happily married to Paul Ploeger. Together they have five beautiful children as well as a daughter-in-law and a son-in-law. 

Metro West is proud to honor Kristina Ploeger as a 2023 Star of Life.

Daniel MacDowell demonstrates a spirit of service for others and an impeccable work ethic. One specific situation where these distinguishing traits were clear was a call that involved a boy who had an allergic reaction to an insect bite. At first, everyone at the scene, including the boy’s family, thought the reaction was mild and did not require an emergency response. However, as Daniel, who was among the first to arrive at the scene, was putting the boy in his family’s car, he noticed that the boy had fainted and his face was starting to swell. Recognizing that anaphylaxis was imminent, Daniel showed courage, medical judgment, and leadership beyond what can be expected from a new EMT, and stopped the family from going to the hospital. He then measured and administered the correct dose of epinephrine per protocol, reversing the symptoms and saving the child’s life.

Once the ambulance arrived on the scene, the boy was found safe and in stable condition. His family members stood by, smiling as tears ran down their faces, forever grateful that the boy was still alive—all thanks to Daniel.

Lukas Robinson joined Umpqua Valley Ambulance as a full-time Paramedic eight years ago. He began his career in EMS when he earned his paramedic and fire science degrees at Umpqua Community College. Throughout his career with Umpqua Valley Ambulance, Lukas has developed an outstanding approach to EMS and earned tremendous respect from his colleagues. In addition to his 911 response duties as a Paramedic, Lukas is a Field Training Officer and assures that future generations of medics are able to provide high-quality care and response to patient needs.

During the wildfire season in the western United States, Lukas serves as a Fire Ambulance Paramedic, operating in remote and difficult conditions. Lukas is always willing to go above and beyond to help out his coworkers.

Lukas has a wife and two boys. During his time off, he enjoys hunting and riding ATVs and UTVs at the coast. He was recently awarded Paramedic of the Year by his coworkers for his dedication and outstanding service.

Umpqua Valley Ambulance salutes Lukas Robinson as our Star of Life!

Aaron Myers has worked at Woodburn Ambulance Service as a Paramedic since 2016. Aaron has, in a short period of time, established himself as a leader, not only at Woodburn Ambulance but in EMS as a whole.

Aaron is an excellent Paramedic and a perfectionist when it comes to patient care. He has shared his wisdom with Paramedic students, and has trained most of Woodburn’s current staff in the Field Training Program when they were first hired. Although he is thought of by new employees as a tough evaluator, Aaron has raised the bar in patient care and many of his peers continue to aspire to reach his level. As a result, Aaron received Woodburn Ambulance’s 2021 Paramedic of Year Award.

In his short time as a Paramedic and as an employee of Woodburn Ambulance, Aaron has been awarded the position of Shift Officer. Management recognized that, through his own actions and without an official position, Aaron’s peers were already following his lead and often sought out his advice on medical protocols and on company policy. In essence, the employees placed Aaron in a leadership position well before management gave him the title.

In addition to his roles as Shift Officer and Field Training Officer, Aaron has also taken on the job of Chair of the Regional Protocol Committee. His passion for the field of EMS is beyond compare, and he frequently researches new treatment modalities to ensure that the region continues to advance in the field of EMS.

What is possibly most remarkable about Aaron is that he is extremely humble and unassuming. He leads by example and never expects his subordinates to perform any task that he would be unwilling to do, nor perform at a level that he could not attain himself. Because of his leadership success, he has been a trusted advisor to management and a trusted leader for all employees.

Howard Mullins was born and raised in Warrenton, Oregon. He has been with Medix Ambulance since November 2013, beginning his career as a Wheelchair Van Driver. It soon became apparent that he had an additional high-level skill set when he jumped in as a mechanic for the Wheelchair and then for the Ambulance Divisions of Medix. Howard has the ability to quickly learn new things and has proven himself to be extremely valuable to the company.

Howard soon became responsible for helping put new wheelchair vans in service by performing the initial installations of the necessary equipment. He has become certified as a Ricon Lift service person, and is also the primary installer of the Stryker Power Gurney and Lifts systems for all of the Metro West family of companies. Howard is always available for any needs the company or its employees may have at any time. He is a great example to all fellow employees as someone who is willing to go the extra mile to accomplish his and the company’s goals, and he always leads by example.

When not keeping Metro West’s lifesaving equipment on the road, Howard also enjoys riding motorcycles and spending time with family and friends. He and his spouse, Nelda, enjoy living on the Oregon coast and in the relaxed atmosphere that comes naturally to the area.

Medix Ambulance is proud to announce Howard Mullins as our Star of Life!

Kevin Horst is a Paramedic at Bay Cities Ambulance in Coos Bay, OR. He began his EMS career over ten years ago as a volunteer with Bridge Fire Department and North Bend Fire Department, and as a part-time employee with Bay Cities Ambulance. Kevin quickly realized that a career in EMS and working in an ambulance was the way he could best serve others in his community. He decided to leave his career as a Journeyman Electrician to pursue his goal of becoming a Paramedic.

Kevin started as an EMT-Wheelchair Van Driver for Bay Cities Ambulance as he continued to pursue his degree in paramedicine. He spent the next five years working full-time in the ambulance and attending school to earn his Associate of Applied Science and Paramedic degree at SWOCC in 2016. Kevin enjoys his full-time work in the ambulance because he “loves serving his community in this capacity.” He also enjoys teaching the next generation of EMS professionals through actively participating in our FTO and internship programs with the local community college.

When Kevin is not at work he enjoys hiking, backpacking, and hunting with his wife and daughter.

Paramedic Eric Dunaway has served in EMS since 1985. He began as an EMT and then obtained his Paramedic certification in 2002. Caring for his community has been Eric’s passion and fascination since he was a young boy. Eric has spent his career working in 911 services and has served as a Critical Care Paramedic in the past.

His supervisor, peers, and dispatchers all identify him as a spirited, intellectual individual who routinely goes above and beyond to provide excellent care and comfort to his patients. For example, Eric has often purchased furnishings or other extra items for his patients in order to make them comfortable upon their return home after a medical event. Eric’s personal quote is, “Choices are Power.”

In addition to his career as a Paramedic, Eric discovered a passion for BMX riding and spends his off time doing downhill dirt jumping. He also found that the sport crosses generations and has found a niche in mentoring the younger enthusiasts of the sport, helping to teach them not just BMX riding but also valuable life lessons. Eric’s other community outreach effort includes teaching and preaching helmet safety, and he is looking towards providing service to Meals on Wheels.

The accomplishment that Eric is most proud of is raising his daughter as a single parent, willing to sacrifice everything to ensure she grows up happy and healthy. Eric is now the proud grandpa to two beautiful grandbabies, a 6-year-old grandson and a 2.5-year-old granddaughter.

Mid-Valley Ambulance is proud to nominate Paramedic Eric Dunaway as a 2022 Star of Life.

Devin Degler has climbed the emergency medical services ladder one rung at a time.

Del Norte Ambulance’s Star of Life started his EMS journey back in his childhood with the Boy Scouts of America, which led him to becoming part of the Explorer Program.

In his hometown of Crescent City, CA, Devin had a number of career choices, including Explorer posts with the local fire departments, law enforcement, the Sea Cadets, and Del Norte Ambulance. The question was, which one?

Something inside drew him to the EMS field, and soon, the quiet son of a former U.S. Navy sailor was learning about CPR and pressure bandages, instead of tying knots and raising mainsails.

Upon graduation from Del Norte High School, Devin was encouraged to take the locally offered EMT-Basic class. In the meantime, he became a driver for Del Norte Ambulance. Once he finished the course and passed his National Registry test, he was hired full-time as an EMT-B on the ambulance.

After several years of enjoying EMS, Devin decided it was time to move his career forward and enrolled in the Paramedic program offered by College of the Redwoods in Eureka, CA. With support from the company, and with help from his Del Norte Ambulance crewmates, Devin completed his studies and recently graduated with his National Registry as a Paramedic.

Nic Heller began working in EMS four years ago after a good friend and neighbor gave him an application to volunteer for Polk County Fire District. After six months of initial training, Nic began responding to calls and was immediately hooked. He received his EMT-B certification and joined Pacific West Ambulance (PWA) two months later. 

Nic is currently training to be a Paramedic while working two full-time jobs. In addition to his job as an EMT, Nic serves as a Behavior Consultant subcontractor for the state of Oregon and writes behavior plans for adults that live in assisted living and memory care facilities. He also continues to work as a volunteer for Polk County Fire District. Nic plans to attend the National College of Technical Instruction (NCTI) next year and to return to PWA upon completion of his degree.

Nic and his wife, Cassandra, have two children, Mercy and William, two dogs, and two cats. Nic enjoys spending as much time as he can with his family, as well as playing bass guitar for his local church.