“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.

Robert has worked for Medix Ambulance since November of 2010 as an EMT Basic. Robert is very knowledgeable, which is one of the many reasons his partners enjoy working with him. Robert is pleasant and hardworking, and always goes the extra mile to perform additional tasks and assist his co-workers. He never questions an assignment, and always finds ways to achieve his goal in the simplest and most effective method possible.

Robert is married to Brenda, the Communications Supervisor for Medix. During his free time, Robert enjoys kayaking, local sports programs, and enjoying the outdoors.

Robert’s presence and cooperation are greatly appreciated. Medix believes Robert embodies exactly what a Star of Life should be and is very proud to have him represent our company. 

Candice Dickson’s first day as a paid EMT on an ambulance was September 11, 2001, with AMR Rancho Division in Southern California. A year and a half prior, Candice found herself suddenly widowed and was looking for a sense of control and security, which the challenges of mobile healthcare fulfilled. Of her experience in EMS, Candice says, “I found that I got back from it so much more than I ever expected. I found like-minded people with tons of curiosity and interesting senses of humor, people that took their skills very seriously, but didn’t have to wear their scars.”

In 2003, Candice became a Paramedic after studying at Crafton Hills College in Yucaipa, California. She received a field internship at Yucaipa City Fire, which lead to a paid position as a Call Firefighter, in addition to her full-time Medic job with AMR. Candice also began teaching in the EMT and Medic program at Crafton Hills. In order to improve her wildland fire skills, Candice also worked for a short period for the California Department of Forestry.

Candice moved to Phoenix, Arizona in 2006, and worked for South West Ambulance, before returning to the West Coast and relocating to Lincoln City, Oregon in 2008. She has been a Medic with Pacific West Ambulance (PWA) since 2009, and has enjoyed the challenges of working in a rural community with a rigorous Medical Advisor. In 2017, Candice attended and graduated from the North Lincoln Fire & Rescue Academy, which has allowed her to live her passion for EMS and serve her small community even more.

When not on duty, Candice loves to go fishing.

Sheila Jackson has worked for Metro West Ambulance for over 20 years. Calm, professional, and caring, Sheila continuously demonstrates high level compassionate clinical care, whether it is a routine patient transport or a more emotionally challenging event.

Mentoring new Paramedics and EMTs is Sheila’s passion. Sheila’s 20 plus years of dedication to EMS is seen throughout community, as she spends a lot of her off time volunteering with animal shelters and with a local fire agency. While volunteering, she trains, coaches, and mentors new Medics, and is always ready to share her years of wisdom with others, from new EMTs to seasoned Paramedics. 

When not on duty, Sheila enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Sheila’s dedication to Metro West Ambulance and the EMS community is demonstrated through her hard work and perseverance. She is loyal, honest, and committed to the growth of the EMS profession. She rarely misses a day of work, fills in when necessary for fellow medics, and continuously volunteers her time to make a difference. Metro West Ambulance is proud to honor Sheila as a 2019 Star of Life.

After 14 years in Special Education working with medically fragile individuals, Cassandra Sperlein made the leap to EMS. She began her career as an Emergency Medical Technician in Los Angeles, where she worked for two years on an interfacility transport unit doing Basic Life Support and Critical Care Transports. She then worked as an Emergency Medical Technician for a special events company, where she also held the positions of Field Training Officer and Supervisor.

In January 2017, Cassandra began her career at Metro West Ambulance as an EMT in the Wheelchair Department. She was able to obtain her Ambulance Certification and started working on an ambulance shortly after starting with the company. Cassandra recently moved to the Standby Division and is currently attending Paramedic school. After a few years of experience in the field, Cassandra hopes to become a Field Training Officer in order to help and teach new EMTs and Paramedics.

Cassandra greatly enjoys reading and taking adventures with her wife and 5 year old son.

Daniel Neazor has been a Paramedic with Woodburn Ambulance since 2006. Over the years, Daniel has developed into a key member of the organization, serving as a mentor and leader to countless new Medics entering the field. His commitment to constant improvement of the care given in the field is unmatched. 

This past year, Daniel has spearheaded new relationships between Woodburn Ambulance and many local law enforcement agencies to add Naloxone to the officers’s patrol units. Daniel has personally trained dozens of police officers in the region, resulting in several documented saves. He also teaches leadership to EMS students in our local community college.

Prior to joining Woodburn Ambulance, Daniel served as an Infantryman and Combat Life Safety Instructor in the New Zealand Army. He did two tours with the UN in East Timor, followed by several months as a private contractor in Afghanistan providing security services to the fledgling government.

When not on duty, Daniel enjoys family time in the great outdoors of the Pacific Northwest.

Woodburn Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Daniel as a 2019 Star of Life.

Prior to moving to Roseburg, Oregon, Bob Wilkinson worked in Virginia for Richmond Ambulance Authority where he completed a certificate in Paramedicine. Bob has served Douglas County, Oregon since 2005, beginning as an EMT with WEST Ambulance in Roseburg while working on an Oregon Paramedic license. A few years later, Douglas County Fire District #2 purchased the EMS division. Currently, Bob is a Paramedic with Umpqua Valley Ambulance in Roseburg.

Over the years, Bob has taken on the role of a quiet, behind the scenes leader. He is always looking for new ways to keep busy, such as volunteering as a Child Safety Seat Technician and teaching part-time for the local Paramedic program as an instructor for Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events and for High Threat Techniques and Tactics. Bob is passionate about the physical and mental health of his crews, and thus also regularly volunteers as a crisis intervention PEER counselor.

On October 1, 2010, Douglas County public safety entities were put to the test when an active shooter threatened the local community college. The mass casualty incident gave Bob the opportunity to analyze the procedures and consider ways in which his crews could improve their response. According to Bob, “EMS is one of the most dangerous service jobs out there. We interact with the public usually during some of the most stressful times of their lives.” As a result, he is working to provide crew members with body armor to use in high-stress situations, as well as to increase training on situational awareness.

Bob has been married for 31 years and has three children. He spends most summers with his parents in Alaska, where he was born and raised. When he is not working on one of his worn-out vehicles, Bob enjoys fishing and reloading. Prior to his career in EMS, Bob worked as a baker and pastry chef, and recently made his daughter’s wedding cake.

Mid-Valley Ambulance is honored to present Maddox Allen with a Star of Life award. Following in his father’s footsteps, Maddox started in his family’s business of veterinary medicine before recognizing that emergency medicine was his true passion. In 2011 he received his EMT certification and began volunteering at Lane Fire Authority as a Firefighter. Maddox completed his Paramedic degree in 2017 and has plans to continue his education as a Critical Care Paramedic and to pursue his bachelor’s degree in emergency medicine.

One of Maddox’s most commendable traits is his willingness to expand his knowledge of emergency medicine in rural areas. Maddox has participated in Cycle Oregon, a 1,500 mile bicycle tour around Oregon that requires camping out and treating patients for a multitude of injuries and illnesses throughout the tour. He has also participated in community career events and standbys at specialized events.

Maddox is a shining example of the future of EMS in Oregon, and Mid-Valley Ambulance is incredibly proud to introduce him as its award recipient.

Kiefer was born and raised in Powers, Oregon. In high school he excelled in both academics and athletics. He was class valedictorian and a member of the National Honor Society. He has always had an interest in the medical field and decided to pursue EMS at his local college.

Kiefer has been a Paramedic since 2014 and has worked at Bay Cities Ambulance since 2016. In addition to a being a Paramedic, Kiefer is also Bay Cities Ambulance’s Safety and Operations Committee President. He enjoys EMS because each shift is different than the last, and he has a passion for the new challenges and opportunities that critical care presents.

When he is not working, Kiefer enjoys golfing and elk hunting with his friends and family. His wife, Ericka, is a huge support system and has been a key part of his success in the field. Kiefer also enjoys spending time with his kids, Kayle, Kipton, Ensley, and Kannon.

“Outstanding people have one thing in common: an absolute sense of mission.” These words by Zig Ziglar perfectly describe Metro West Ambulance’s Marketing/Customer Advocate & Recruiter Karri Bolman!

Metro West is proud of Karri’s advocacy and how she has championed EMS throughout her career. Karri works closely with our region’s long-term care facilities, adult foster care homes, assisted living, independent living, and memory care facilities. She familiarizes these organizations with EMS, interfacility mobile healthcare and mobile integrated healthcare, then trains and supports them and the residents that they care for.

Karri joined the Metro West Ambulance Family of Companies in 2003. She started as a Customer Service Call Taker, then became a Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) certified Dispatcher in our Communications Center. In 2005, Karri joined Metro West’s Marketing & Business Development team. Karri is now our company’s talent recruiter, responsible for hiring new employees for all divisions and positions. This includes presenting at Oregon EMT and Paramedic education programs in addition to promoting career programs at local high schools.

Throughout her career, Karri has been very involved with several local organizations. Currently, Karri serves on the Board of the Eldercare Support Foundation which provides “Senior Wishes” to geriatric patients. She serves as the President of the Senior Provider Information Network, a group dedicated to providing quality continuing education and networking opportunities to senior healthcare professionals. She is also on the board of the Oregon Health Care Association (OHCA) which represents more than 620 nursing homes, assisted living, residential care, senior housing facilities, in-home care agencies, and long-term care corporate offices, in addition to 200 nationwide business partner members.

Karri has worked hard to collaborate across disciplines to improve patient outcomes with a focus on long-term care. In addition to being recognized as an “Unsung Hero” within our company, Karri has received a Special Services Award from the OHCA. Karri has also been honored for her work by the Marquis Vita Life Foundation and by the Oregon Medical Case Management Group over the years.

Always first and foremost for Karri are her children, daughter, Hana, and son, Collin. Karri enjoys spending her time with them playing games, cooking, and going on family adventures hiking, golfing, and rock rappelling.

Metro West Ambulance is proud to honor Karri Bolman as a 2019 Star of Life in recognition of her dedication to our company, our mission, and her advocacy with our long-term health partners.

Almost 11 years ago, Rosalie Willis, began her EMS career. Approached by her neighbor, Fire Chief Terry Atkins, she was asked if she would be interested in volunteering on the ambulance. Speechless at first, she began asking numerous questions. Quickly she found out what she needed to accomplish before being able to volunteer to do such an amazing thing. In June of 2003, she successfully completed her local First Responder course. Enjoying her education, she decided to continue learning and completed her EMT Basic in June of 2004. She volunteered on a rural ambulance for 5 years. In March of 2008, Rosalie was hired to work as a Full-Time employee at Bay Cities Ambulance in Coos Bay, Oregon. As a single mother of 4 young children, in the fall of 2008, she began her 4 year training to obtain her license as a Paramedic. In October of 2012, all of her hard work and dedication was rewarded, when she accomplished her goal and became a Nationally Certified Paramedic. After 2 months of field training with Paramedic’s at Bay Cities Ambulance, she was released to work within the company as a Paramedic. Since that time she has continued to strive for excellence in her work and her continuing personal education on the job. Rosalie is now happily married and devotes her spare time to her husband and children. She loves spending time at the ocean with her family. She is grateful to all of her friends, family and co-workers for their love and support throughout her career and training to become a paramedic.”