Timothy Hinchcliff’s journey in emergency medical services began at just 16 years old when he started as a volunteer with Burholme First Aid Corps. From those early days, Tim’s commitment to EMS and his community has only grown stronger, leading him to become a seasoned leader in the field.

In 1994, Tim became the Managing Director of Burholme EMS, where he guided the organization through a major transition from a volunteer-based service to a professional career staff, ensuring the delivery of high-quality emergency care. Throughout his 30 years of leadership, Tim has spearheaded numerous initiatives to improve mobile healthcare access, including collaborating with Einstein Hospital to launch a Community Paramedic Program and establishing the Burholme EMS Training Institute, where he has mentored future EMS professionals. Tim has also maintained his clinical credentials—including National Registered EMT, Pennsylvania Certified EMS Instructor, and Registered Respiratory Care Practitioner—demonstrating his ongoing dedication to patient care and professional excellence.

A visionary leader, Tim recognized the need for collaboration to enhance EMS services. He was instrumental in orchestrating the merger between Burholme First Aid Corps and VMSC Emergency Medical Services, which expanded access to advanced life support and mobile health services in Philadelphia and Montgomery County, ensuring sustainable, high-quality care for the community.

In addition to his roles at Burholme and VMSC, Tim contributes significantly to the EMS field at the state level. He serves as Director, Treasurer, and Board Member of the Pennsylvania Ambulance Association and as Secretary/Treasurer and Board Member of the PA EMS Providers Foundation. His involvement with the Pennsylvania Health Emergency Services Council further underscores his commitment to advancing EMS statewide.

Tim’s dedication extends beyond EMS into his personal life. An active member and trustee of Lawndale Baptist Church, he also serves as a Board Member and Quality Assurance Committee Chair for The Philadelphia Protestant Home. In his hometown of Cheltenham Township, he participates in the Emergency Management Team and chairs the Historical La Mott Architectural Review Board, contributing to his community’s safety and heritage. Tim has been married to his wife Lisa for 27 years, embodying the values of family, community, and service.

For his lifelong dedication, visionary leadership, and commitment to enhancing emergency medical services, VMSC Emergency Medical Services proudly nominates Timothy C. Hinchcliff as a 2024 Star of Life.

Neil Brady’s career in emergency medical services spans over 40 years, marked by exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to serving others. Since his launch as one of the earliest Paramedics in the Philadelphia Fire Department’s EMS system, Neil has consistently advanced the profession and improved patient care.

As Patient Experience Manager at VMSC Emergency Medical Services, Neil has made enhancing patient engagement his primary focus. Recognizing that patients are at the heart of EMS, he developed innovative strategies to prioritize patient involvement and satisfaction. Under his guidance, VMSC has implemented programs that improve communication between providers and patients, ensuring care is delivered efficiently and compassionately.

Neil has championed initiatives encouraging patient feedback, allowing VMSC to tailor services to better meet community needs. His advocacy for the effective use of technology keeps patients informed and engaged throughout their care journey, fostering trust and improving health outcomes. By emphasizing transparency and education, he empowers patients and strengthens community relationships.

In addition to his professional achievements, Neil co-founded The Patchwork Foundation, a non-profit supporting families affected by childhood cancer, demonstrating his profound compassion and commitment to those in need. He also serves his community as a Zoning Board member and Chair of the North Penn Health Hospital and Education Authority in Hatfield, PA.

Married to his wife Sandra for 40 years and a father of four, Neil embodies the values of family, community, and service. Guided by principles of kindness, compassion, and trust, he believes in fostering hope and resilience in others.

For his exceptional service, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to enhancing patient engagement in EMS, VMSC Emergency Medical Services proudly nominates Cornelius “Neil” Brady for the American Ambulance Association Star of Life award. Neil’s profound impact on emergency medical services and his dedication to improving patient experiences make him a true champion in the EMS profession and a shining example of excellence.

Edwin Boyle began his career with Cetronia Ambulance Corps in 2007 as a Paratransit Associate while attending George E. Moerkirk Emergency Medical Institute in Allentown, PA to become an EMT. Edwin achieved his accreditation as a licensed EMT in 2008, and was later awarded a scholarship through Cetronia Ambulance Corps to attend the Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences to become a Paramedic, and graduated in 2011. In 2018, he was named Supervisor for the organization. Edwin went on to graduate with an associate degree in nursing from Excelsior College, NY in 2019 and passed his nursing boards in 2020.

As an active associate, Edwin has served as a Tactical Paramedic for the Eastern Pennsylvania Region II Tactical Emergency Medical Services team (TEMS) since 2014. EPA TEMS responds with the Lehigh County Municipal Emergency Response Team, Pennsylvania State Police Special Emergency Response Team, the City of Easton Special Emergency Response Team, and the Berks County Emergency Response Team. Edwin also received his certification from the National Parks Police for Counter Narcotics and Terrorism Operational Medical Support in 2016. In addition, he served as a Community Paramedic for Lehigh Valley’s Congestive Heart Failure Pilot Program from 2017-2018. Edwin was also instrumental in the creation of a Pathways to Success program, which is distributed to local high schools to get students involved in EMS.

In November 2020, Edwin was promoted once again to Director of Operations, and now manages 125 Advanced Life Support (ALS), Basic Life Support (BLS), and Paratransit Fleet associates while also providing direction and support to the Communications and Field Supervisors. He is charged with facilitating a customer-first organizational culture that respects the organization, its people, and its customers.

Edwin lives in New Tripoli, PA with his wife, Dr. Courtney Boyle – OB/GYN for Lehigh Valley Physician Group and his two children. In his free time, he enjoys camping, hunting, and archery sports. He also coaches his son’s wrestling, football, and T-Ball teams.