Stars of Life

Mike Copeland, Paramedic/Field Training Officer

2019 Stars of Life Recipient

Mike Copeland has been an invaluable member of the Ventura County EMS community for the past 25 years. Throughout his career he has served as an EMT, a paramedic and a field training officer. He’s developed a reputation as someone who leads by example.

Mike was one of the first to respond to the deadly shooting at a country music bar in Thousand Oaks, California in November 2018. He sprang into action mode when he received a patient with multiple gunshot wounds. Mike did not realize at the time that his patient was a long- ...Read More

Mike Copeland has been an invaluable member of the Ventura County EMS community for the past 25 years. Throughout his career he has served as an EMT, a paramedic and a field training officer. He’s developed a reputation as someone who leads by example.

Mike was one of the first to respond to the deadly shooting at a country music bar in Thousand Oaks, California in November 2018. He sprang into action mode when he received a patient with multiple gunshot wounds. Mike did not realize at the time that his patient was a long-time friend and fellow first responder. Mike transported the man to the hospital, then returned to assist other patients.

Just days after the shooting, disastrous wildfires broke out in Ventura County. No one would have questioned Mike had he asked for time off to cope after the shooting, but being the dedicated and selfless individual he is, Mike volunteered to fill available shifts during this difficult time.

We honor Mike for his tireless commitment to his patients, his fellow caregivers and the community he has lived in and served for decades. Read Less

Nicole Gonzales, Emergency Medical Technician/Field Training Officer/Critical Incident Stress Management Coordinator

2019 Stars of Life Recipient

When two devastating events shook her community, Nicole Gonzales responded for responders. As the Ventura County critical incident stress management coordinator and a member of the county’s behavioral health task force, Nicole is charged with ensuring first responders receive the mental health support they need after traumatic events.

Nicole provided support and comfort to her fellow AMR employees, first responders and hospital personnel in the immediate aftermath of the November 2018 shooting at a country music bar in Th ...Read More

When two devastating events shook her community, Nicole Gonzales responded for responders. As the Ventura County critical incident stress management coordinator and a member of the county’s behavioral health task force, Nicole is charged with ensuring first responders receive the mental health support they need after traumatic events.

Nicole provided support and comfort to her fellow AMR employees, first responders and hospital personnel in the immediate aftermath of the November 2018 shooting at a country music bar in Thousand Oaks, California. Wildfires ignited just days later, impacting the same personnel who had responded to the deadly shooting. Nicole worked with members of the Critical Incident Stress Management coalition to create plans to satisfy the mental health needs of the community, in addition to those serving the public interest.

Day in and day out, Nicole demonstrates compassion and professionalism in helping her teammates cope with large-scale public incidents and their own private tragedies. She also continues to work as a full-time EMT and is a field training officer and lead emergency vehicle operations instructor for AMR Ventura and Gold Coast Ambulance. Read Less

Peter Beemer, Paramedic

2019 Stars of Life Recipient

In April 2018, Kauai was hit by unrelenting rain. Forty-nine inches fell in 24 hours, causing devastation across the remote Hawaiian island. Peter Beemer was home with his wife and three children when the storm hit. Peter was trapped behind landslides and watched his car and truck float away in the flood waters, but that didn’t stop him from responding. As the only paramedic on his side of the island, Peter coordinated medical operations that – in the words of emergency medical physician Dr. Erik Schumacher – “given the ...Read More

In April 2018, Kauai was hit by unrelenting rain. Forty-nine inches fell in 24 hours, causing devastation across the remote Hawaiian island. Peter Beemer was home with his wife and three children when the storm hit. Peter was trapped behind landslides and watched his car and truck float away in the flood waters, but that didn’t stop him from responding. As the only paramedic on his side of the island, Peter coordinated medical operations that – in the words of emergency medical physician Dr. Erik Schumacher – “given the circumstances and available resources, left nothing to be desired.”

Peter’s family was evacuated; he spent nearly two weeks on site, helping his community recover. Peter provided wound care, disease and injury prevention education in the community, helped set up a walk-in clinic, did home visits and coordinated medication distribution. “Watching him was a lesson in mastery; it was as if he had done that before, many times,” recounted Dr. Schumacher. “He coordinated care that was truly impactful and, whether they know it or not, the residents of the north shore owe him an enormous debt of gratitude. I am proud to have somebody so capable on our team.” Read Less

Rachel Evans, Paramedic

2019 Stars of Life Recipient

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’s 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 succeed. Rac ...Read More

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’s 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 succeed. Rachel credits her grandmother, a long-time teacher, with helping her understand the importance of sharing what she’s learned with others.

Last year, Rachel received a special administrative award for her professionalism and leadership. She’s 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. But Rachel claims what she’s most proud of is that her colleagues say they’d trust her to provide emergency care to their family members. Read Less

Rebecca Hartman, Lead Field Training Officer/Supervisor

2019 Stars of Life Recipient

Rebecca Hartman has grown up in the emergency medical services industry. She’s been part of the team at Abbott for the past decade, but first became involved in EMS when she was 16 years old. As lead field training officer, Becca oversees trainers, conducts case reviews and helps mentor team members – all while continuing to work in the field.

After several of her team members were exposed to opiates while responding to calls, Becca took it upon herself to ensure everyone was educated and prepared for this potential ...Read More

Rebecca Hartman has grown up in the emergency medical services industry. She’s been part of the team at Abbott for the past decade, but first became involved in EMS when she was 16 years old. As lead field training officer, Becca oversees trainers, conducts case reviews and helps mentor team members – all while continuing to work in the field.

After several of her team members were exposed to opiates while responding to calls, Becca took it upon herself to ensure everyone was educated and prepared for this potential exposure. She initiated a training class for employees but then took it a step further. Rebecca contacted several local fire and police departments and began teaching a class on opiate exposures. She wanted to make sure that as many first responders as possible were aware of the dangers of opiates and how they can decrease the exposures of first responders.

Another example of Becca’s commitment to her community is demonstrated every Friday when she visits a local elementary school to offer high fives and a boost of encouragement to students starting their day. Several other EMTs and paramedics have been convinced by Becca to participate in the seemingly simple activity which produces extraordinary reactions from the children. Becca’s positive outlook is inspiring. She has earned the trust, respect and admiration of her colleagues, patients and community. Read Less

Russell Friske, Paramedic/Clinical Coordinator

2019 Stars of Life Recipient

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’d intended to join the fire service but fell in love with the medicine. Rusty earned his paramedic certification in August 2016 and has since become a part-time clinical coordinator. Rusty is responsible for leading the EMSA field training officer program and has taken responsibility for helping EMTs successfully transition to paramedic roles. Rusty has recei ...Read More

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’d intended to join the fire service but fell in love with the medicine. Rusty earned his paramedic certification in August 2016 and has since become a part-time clinical coordinator. Rusty 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’ 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. Read Less

Scott Hutchison, Driver

2019 Stars of Life Recipient

On his first day on the job as an inter-facility driver, Scott Hutchison saved a child’s life. Scott and his ambulance were stopped at a traffic light when a man in a parking lot started shouting and waving at him frantically. The man yelled that a baby was dying and asked Scott to follow him. Scott’s EMT partner was tending to a patient and couldn’t leave the ambulance, so Scott told the EMT to call 911, grabbed a kit and dashed to a nearby car himself. There he found a mother holding an unconscious toddler who wasn’t b ...Read More

On his first day on the job as an inter-facility driver, Scott Hutchison saved a child’s life. Scott and his ambulance were stopped at a traffic light when a man in a parking lot started shouting and waving at him frantically. The man yelled that a baby was dying and asked Scott to follow him. Scott’s EMT partner was tending to a patient and couldn’t leave the ambulance, so Scott told the EMT to call 911, grabbed a kit and dashed to a nearby car himself. There he found a mother holding an unconscious toddler who wasn’t breathing. The child had an airway obstruction, which Scott managed to clear. When advanced life support units arrived on scene, the child was breathing and conscious. Scott and his partner then completed their original mission – without saying a word to anyone about the incident.

Scott will likely have many other opportunities ahead to save and impact lives. He soon will begin his EMT training. Read Less

Timothy Hoar, Emergency Medical Technician

2019 Stars of Life Recipient

Timothy Hoar tried his hand at several professions before joining the AMR team in February 2018. EMS seemed like a perfect fit for Tim, a U.S. Army combat veteran.

Last July, Tim’s military training proved essential to defusing an extremely dangerous situation and preventing bloodshed. Tim and his partner responded to the scene of a call involving a violent patient at a local nursing home before police arrived. Tim spoke calmly to the man to de-escalate the situation and gained his trust. Tensions flared again, though, and ...Read More

Timothy Hoar tried his hand at several professions before joining the AMR team in February 2018. EMS seemed like a perfect fit for Tim, a U.S. Army combat veteran.

Last July, Tim’s military training proved essential to defusing an extremely dangerous situation and preventing bloodshed. Tim and his partner responded to the scene of a call involving a violent patient at a local nursing home before police arrived. Tim spoke calmly to the man to de-escalate the situation and gained his trust. Tensions flared again, though, and the man brandished a pistol. When he fired a shot toward a member of the nursing home staff, Tim’s military training kicked in. He swept the patient’s legs, took him to the ground and secured the weapon. Once Tim had the patient restrained, he reverted to caregiver mode – and put a pillow under the man’s head to reduce his discomfort while they waited for officers to arrive on scene.

After the incident, authorities lauded Tim for his incredibly brave actions. The Buffalo Police Public Information Officer called Tim a hero for bravely wrestling the firearm, which contained four additional live rounds, away from the patient. There is little doubt that Tim’s actions that day saved many lives. Read Less

Timothy Lambert, Paramedic

2019 Stars of Life Recipient

Timothy Lambert completed his paramedic field internship at AMR’s Hartford operation and then joined the team in early 2018.

Last May, just two months into his career as a paramedic, Tim and his partner responded to what they thought would be a routine medical call involving an emotionally disturbed patient. But when Tim and his partner arrived on scene, they found a severely injured police officer. The officer had been stabbed multiple times in the neck and was losing blood quickly. Every second mattered. Tim and his part ...Read More

Timothy Lambert completed his paramedic field internship at AMR’s Hartford operation and then joined the team in early 2018.

Last May, just two months into his career as a paramedic, Tim and his partner responded to what they thought would be a routine medical call involving an emotionally disturbed patient. But when Tim and his partner arrived on scene, they found a severely injured police officer. The officer had been stabbed multiple times in the neck and was losing blood quickly. Every second mattered. Tim and his partner quickly packaged the police officer for transport, and Tim began treating her life-threatening injuries at once. They arrived at the trauma center within six minutes.

The officer successfully recovered from her injuries. Tim’s rapid response and expert care in the first few critical minutes of the incident were key to the positive patient outcome. Read Less

Alex Anderson, Critical Care Paramedic

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Las Vegas, Nevada

Alex heard about the catastrophic event in Las Vegas on October 1, 2017 and responded to station, knowing he would be needed. He was assigned a decompression unit with Dr. Barnum—they raced into action and began providing care. With his advanced skills as a CCT medic, he made a difference in many patients’ outcomes. As the night unfolded, neither man knew how long they would be needed to run busloads of patients to the hospitals but that didn’t ...Read More

American Medical Response
Las Vegas, Nevada

Alex heard about the catastrophic event in Las Vegas on October 1, 2017 and responded to station, knowing he would be needed. He was assigned a decompression unit with Dr. Barnum—they raced into action and began providing care. With his advanced skills as a CCT medic, he made a difference in many patients’ outcomes. As the night unfolded, neither man knew how long they would be needed to run busloads of patients to the hospitals but that didn’t matter, he would stay as long as necessary.

Because of his tenure and record of service, his coworkers, as well as hospital staff, want him to be their medic should they ever need one. He is extremely caring and goes the extra mile for his patients. He has also helped develop many CME opportunities for the local operations as well as being an integral part in updating advanced response techniques such as using the bus to treat and transport patients from mass causality incidents. Always humble, he does not consider himself a hero. Read Less

Andrea Strongman, Paramedic, Relief Operations Supervisor, Field Training Officer

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Santa Rosa, California

If you are lucky enough to be partnered with Andrea your chances of having a slow shift tend to be limited since she has a reputation of being dispatched whenever a big event or rough call occurs. This reputation was solidified on October 8, 2017, when a devastating fire hit the Sonoma Valley region.

Andrea and her partner were working the night shift when the fire began. High winds quickly spread the fire across the region, knocking down pow ...Read More

American Medical Response
Santa Rosa, California

If you are lucky enough to be partnered with Andrea your chances of having a slow shift tend to be limited since she has a reputation of being dispatched whenever a big event or rough call occurs. This reputation was solidified on October 8, 2017, when a devastating fire hit the Sonoma Valley region.

Andrea and her partner were working the night shift when the fire began. High winds quickly spread the fire across the region, knocking down power lines and inundating the area with smoke and ash.

Andrea and her partner were dispatched to evacuate a paraplegic patient from his home that was in the direct path of the fire. They arrived to find the home engulfed in flames with no firefighting resources available. Despite making every effort to gain entry, the flames were so hot and destructive it became clear the fire would prevent any further rescue efforts. Distraught, Andrea and her partner had to compose themselves so they could continue to run calls being dispatched that night. Together they performed countless residential, hospital and skilled nursing facility evacuations, in addition to emergency medical transports to the ERs that were still open.

Andrea accomplished this all in the midst of consoling and reassuring several of her colleagues who had lost their homes. Andrea’s partners may not always benefit from her reputation, but without question her community and her patients do. Read Less

Brandon Jones, EMSA - Paramedic and Emergency Medical Dispatcher

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

EMSA
Tulsa, Oklahoma

Some people are known to wear their hearts on their sleeves. Brandon Jones is known to wear his life’s mission on his forearm – literally. Two verses from the 82nd Psalm are tattooed on Brandon’s arm and speak to his commitment to be a servant and protector of those in need. It’s both ironic and poignant, given that Brandon has found himself in great need more than once.

Brandon joined the EMSA team as an EMT in 2009. He started paramedic school in 2010, but bat ...Read More

EMSA
Tulsa, Oklahoma

Some people are known to wear their hearts on their sleeves. Brandon Jones is known to wear his life’s mission on his forearm – literally. Two verses from the 82nd Psalm are tattooed on Brandon’s arm and speak to his commitment to be a servant and protector of those in need. It’s both ironic and poignant, given that Brandon has found himself in great need more than once.

Brandon joined the EMSA team as an EMT in 2009. He started paramedic school in 2010, but battled alcohol abuse, financial crises and, ultimately, homelessness. With support from his EMSA family, Brandon got back on his feet, stopped drinking and graduated. But Brandon relapsed after responding to an apartment fire that killed two children. Then, while working to maintain good health, Brandon suffered a devastating injury that took him off the ambulance. He was offered a position as an emergency medical dispatcher in 2014 and has since flourished, personally and professionally. Brandon is renowned for making quick, strategic decisions and championing the interests of patients and field crews alike. Read Less

Brett Dragun, Paramedic and Operations Supervisor

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Las Vegas, Nevada

On October 1, 2017 Brett was among the first wave of initial responders to the Route 91 Festival shooting. After attending to a truck full of injured patients, he immediately assumed a leadership role. He began collaborating with fire command and assisted getting transport units to anyone that needed it. He ensured a proper response from AMR.

As the night transitioned into light, he did not stop working on the incident. He began checking on crew m ...Read More

American Medical Response
Las Vegas, Nevada

On October 1, 2017 Brett was among the first wave of initial responders to the Route 91 Festival shooting. After attending to a truck full of injured patients, he immediately assumed a leadership role. He began collaborating with fire command and assisted getting transport units to anyone that needed it. He ensured a proper response from AMR.

As the night transitioned into light, he did not stop working on the incident. He began checking on crew members and making sure they were OK. He spent time with anyone that wanted to talk it out in the days that followed. In his more than eight years of service with AMR, Brett is known as the encourager, mentor and consummate professional. He has also served on four disaster deployments where he remains the same caring individual. He encourages EMTs to further their education, volunteer their time for the disaster response team, or even read to elementary students. His colleagues know Brett as someone who is always available for them and is the calm in the midst of crisis. Read Less

Bruce Hagen, Paramedic and Field Supervisor

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Napa, California

Bruce’s distinguished 35-year career in EMS and countless certifications, including mountain and wilderness rescue, are exactly the traits you want in an individual coordinating EMS response during one of the nation’s worst firestorms. On the evening of, October 8, 2017, Bruce, operating a 4-wheel drive quick response vehicle, was the Field Supervisor on-duty and was already halfway through his shift.

At about 9:30 p.m., calls came in o ...Read More

American Medical Response
Napa, California

Bruce’s distinguished 35-year career in EMS and countless certifications, including mountain and wilderness rescue, are exactly the traits you want in an individual coordinating EMS response during one of the nation’s worst firestorms. On the evening of, October 8, 2017, Bruce, operating a 4-wheel drive quick response vehicle, was the Field Supervisor on-duty and was already halfway through his shift.

At about 9:30 p.m., calls came in over 911 Fire/EMS dispatch channels about the reports of one or more spot fires in the hills above the City of Napa. After contacting the CAL Fire Incident Commander (IC), Bruce assumed the role of radio liaison to manage EMS radio communications between the PSAP (dispatch center) and the Fire IC.

A report then came in that up to 45 people were trapped in homes along Atlas Peak Road and were unable to evacuate. With no fire resources available, Bruce requested the help of the CHP H32 helicopter to assist the AMR Operations Manager and multiple AMR ALS ambulance units with the rescue evacuations. The AMR crews, along with Sheriff's Deputies, then went door to door to evacuate residents.

As the fire progressed, Bruce and the Fire IC became surrounded by the fire and were forced to evacuate themselves. As Bruce was pulling out of a parking lot, he observed a woman running to flee the area and she was struck by a blowing road sign that knocked her to the ground. He placed her in the back of his supervisor vehicle then drove to a safer location.

Bruce continued to work, without a break, until about 3:00 p.m. when he was relieved by another supervisor. After a short rest period, he returned to work and completed additional shifts during the response phase of the disaster, which lasted for two weeks. He worked with fire agencies at a field command post and staging areas, and directed incoming EMS resources, including mutual aid strike teams, to various assignments.
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Callen Daquiaog, Paramedic

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Las Vegas, Nevada (MedicWest)

Callen Daquiaog is a hero and teacher among heroes. However, being the humble man that he is, he would never admit it. On October 1, 2017, he was one of many who responded to the Route 91 Festival shooting. He made life saving decisions in the face of danger. At the time, no one knew when the shooting would stop or where the shooter was. Multiple conflicting reports of different locations meant no scene was safe. Callen was responding to the east side ...Read More

American Medical Response
Las Vegas, Nevada (MedicWest)

Callen Daquiaog is a hero and teacher among heroes. However, being the humble man that he is, he would never admit it. On October 1, 2017, he was one of many who responded to the Route 91 Festival shooting. He made life saving decisions in the face of danger. At the time, no one knew when the shooting would stop or where the shooter was. Multiple conflicting reports of different locations meant no scene was safe. Callen was responding to the east side of the venue, he came to Duke Ellington Way and faced the carnage head on. He assisted two off-duty EMTs from California, themselves shot, load victims in his unit. He made the decision, with a full ambulance, to head to the trauma center. His military upbringing told him that the situation was dangerous. He stayed calm and treated the critical patients in his ambulance. He dropped them off quickly, hoping he would see the two EMTs again.

He returned to his unit and went back towards the concert venue. He was sent to the command post where they staged for some time before being sent to a nearby smaller hospital where busloads of patients were being taken. He helped the ER triage and reprioritize transfers out, taking six victims to an outlying hospital. He is credited by physicians and nurses for his decisions that undoubtedly saved many lives. In his almost four years at MedicWest, he is known as the calm amidst the chaos. He can always be counted on to help out at events like the Route 91 Festival shooting or teaching a new EMT. He was honored by the agency that employs the two EMTs for his valor. He designed a patch for the event and donated the proceeds to the victim’s fund. A true hero. Read Less

Dr. Michael Barnum, Medical Director

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Las Vegas, Nevada

Dr. Barnum is well known in the Las Vegas EMS community. Besides being the assistant ER director for Valley Hospital, he is the Las Vegas AMR Medical Director. Whether teaching new paramedics at our training center or the AMR operation, lecturing medical students, assisting EMS students in the ER or assisting paramedics bringing patients into his ER, he is the “go to guy” for all things EMS. He maintains multiple certifications from Swift Water, Verti ...Read More

American Medical Response
Las Vegas, Nevada

Dr. Barnum is well known in the Las Vegas EMS community. Besides being the assistant ER director for Valley Hospital, he is the Las Vegas AMR Medical Director. Whether teaching new paramedics at our training center or the AMR operation, lecturing medical students, assisting EMS students in the ER or assisting paramedics bringing patients into his ER, he is the “go to guy” for all things EMS. He maintains multiple certifications from Swift Water, Vertical Rescue, Firefighter, paramedic and is also an Eagle Scout and a pilot.

On the night of October 1, 2017, he rushed into work in his EMS capacity to help assist caring for patients and taking the load off the system. He loaded multiple patients on a bus with a fellow AMR CCT Medic and went to the hospital. His actions not only made a difference on scene but also to the receiving hospitals and trauma centers. As with other Stars, he does not consider himself a hero, he was just doing what needed to be done. Read Less

Duane Lessie, GMRTT - EMT

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

Global Medical Response
Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago

Duane has been a member of Global Medical Response of Trinidad and Tobago (GMRTT) for just over 11 years. He is deployed in field operations as an EMT. Prior to his current role, he served in the Communications Department as a System Status Dispatcher. Duane is also currently enrolled in the company’s paramedic certification program which aligns with his career path of advancing his skills as an EMS professional. Duane serves as a mentor for ...Read More

Global Medical Response
Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago

Duane has been a member of Global Medical Response of Trinidad and Tobago (GMRTT) for just over 11 years. He is deployed in field operations as an EMT. Prior to his current role, he served in the Communications Department as a System Status Dispatcher. Duane is also currently enrolled in the company’s paramedic certification program which aligns with his career path of advancing his skills as an EMS professional. Duane serves as a mentor for new EMTs.

Duane’s passion for helping others extends beyond the corridors of GMRTT. He is currently the Health Coordinator for the Bournes Road SDA Church. In addition to this, he conducts compression-only CPR training at schools in his community, where he volunteers to provide fitness training, encouraging healthier lifestyles. Duane lends his passion to fitness and health to his community; it came as no surprise when he agreed to the request by the Petit Valley Football Club to provide his services as a physio trainer, assisting his team to the league championship.

Duane wears his heart on his sleeve. It is because of these attributes he was nominated resoundingly by his peers to be the 2018 GMRTT Star of Life.

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Eric Forsythe, EMT and Field Training Officer

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Seattle, Washington

On the afternoon of January 29, 2018, Eric, a 15-year veteran, was running some errands while off-duty. After turning off a local Interstate, Eric noticed a teenage boy on the overpass standing on top of the Jersey barrier staring at the freeway below.

That’s when Eric’s instincts kicked in. He pulled his car over and cautiously confronted the young man. Eric used all his training and reasoning skills to persuade him not to jump. Aft ...Read More

American Medical Response
Seattle, Washington

On the afternoon of January 29, 2018, Eric, a 15-year veteran, was running some errands while off-duty. After turning off a local Interstate, Eric noticed a teenage boy on the overpass standing on top of the Jersey barrier staring at the freeway below.

That’s when Eric’s instincts kicked in. He pulled his car over and cautiously confronted the young man. Eric used all his training and reasoning skills to persuade him not to jump. After some careful negotiation, Eric gained his trust and convinced the boy to step away from the edge. When the police arrived, Eric learned the boy had been reported missing for the last 24-36 hours.

The Chief of the Lakewood Police Department presented Eric with the Life Saving Award for his heroic actions. Eric is truly a caregiver willing to go above and beyond for the community he serves, and a perfect example of what it means to be a Star of Life. Read Less

Jamie Georgi, Paramedic and Associate Supervisor

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Houston, Texas

Jamie Georgi’s numerous selfless acts during Hurricane Harvey demonstrate why he is known for his commitment to his calling. As Hurricane Harvey worsened, AMR Houston committed to relocate dozens of patients from one hospital to another that was out of harm’s way. Jamie volunteered to serve as AMR’s liaison at the receiving hospital. Over several hours, AMR evacuated 88 patients to safety. Jamie was hailed for beautifully coordinating resources bet ...Read More

American Medical Response
Houston, Texas

Jamie Georgi’s numerous selfless acts during Hurricane Harvey demonstrate why he is known for his commitment to his calling. As Hurricane Harvey worsened, AMR Houston committed to relocate dozens of patients from one hospital to another that was out of harm’s way. Jamie volunteered to serve as AMR’s liaison at the receiving hospital. Over several hours, AMR evacuated 88 patients to safety. Jamie was hailed for beautifully coordinating resources between AMR and the facility.

As the storm raged, a hospital representative asked AMR to return a discharged patient to his home. Two crews tried but were unable to reach the hospital. Jamie decided to give it “one last shot” and enlisted a crew partner. In darkness, heavy rain and high winds, they made their way through less-flooded backroads to make the transport happen.

Jamie worked day and night, staying positive and frequently checking on crews’ wellbeing. Some had lost everything. When Jamie’s leadership told him to go home and rest, he went home but he didn’t rest. Instead, he assembled a cooking team which provided four days of fresh meals to the numerous AMR personnel in Houston from several states.
With typical modesty, Jamie says everything he does is part of a team effort. Read Less

Jimmy Miller, Paramedic and Field Training Officer

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Jackson, Mississippi

Jimmy and his partner were returning a patient to his nursing home when another vehicle smashed into their ambulance twice, flipping the truck on its side. Jimmy suffered potentially life-threatening head, neck and chest injuries.

But despite his serious trauma, Jimmy continued to focus on his patient. He told rescuers to remove his patient from the ambulance first. At the hospital, from his own stretcher Jimmy could see his patient wheeled by. ...Read More

American Medical Response
Jackson, Mississippi

Jimmy and his partner were returning a patient to his nursing home when another vehicle smashed into their ambulance twice, flipping the truck on its side. Jimmy suffered potentially life-threatening head, neck and chest injuries.

But despite his serious trauma, Jimmy continued to focus on his patient. He told rescuers to remove his patient from the ambulance first. At the hospital, from his own stretcher Jimmy could see his patient wheeled by. Jimmy called out to the patient’s nurse and gave her a detailed report just as he would ordinarily do with anyone in his care.

Because of the accident, Jimmy missed four months of field work but during that time he taught classes as one of his operation’s field training officers.

His supervisors said, “Jimmy is excellent in all he does. He personifies everything a paramedic should be: skilled and deeply compassionate, a patient advocate and a mentor to his colleagues.”

Jimmy is also known for helping his co-workers with personal needs. As one co-worker said, “I think helping others is simply in his genes.” Read Less

Joshua Epperson, EMT

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Washington, DC

Joshua is being honored as a Star of Life for his continued commitment to public service, bravery and dedication as an EMT. Joshua has the skill, mindset and tenacity to handle emergency scenarios in a quick-decision environment. His actions proved this when he assisted a fellow AMR ambulance crew after he noticed them stopped on the Interstate. The crew was on a 911 call with a distressed patient who became violent and combative en route to the hospital. He acted q ...Read More

American Medical Response
Washington, DC

Joshua is being honored as a Star of Life for his continued commitment to public service, bravery and dedication as an EMT. Joshua has the skill, mindset and tenacity to handle emergency scenarios in a quick-decision environment. His actions proved this when he assisted a fellow AMR ambulance crew after he noticed them stopped on the Interstate. The crew was on a 911 call with a distressed patient who became violent and combative en route to the hospital. He acted quickly to aid the crew, provide assistance and control the situation until police arrived. His actions helped to prevent any further injury to the crew and patient.

Josh has been with AMR working with the DC 911 system since it began, joining to get more fast-paced situational emergency experience. He enjoys his work and continues every day to pursue his career in public safety. Read Less

Karis Arce, EMT

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
San Francisco, California

Unlike many students working their way through college, Karis did not push the easy button when it came time to choose a job. Not only did she decide to become an EMT while attending school, she also chose to work in AMR’s San Francisco operations, one of the busiest EMS systems in the state.

On July 11, 2017, around 8:30 p.m., Karis was completing paperwork inside the ambulance while parked outside a local ER when she observed a wom ...Read More

American Medical Response
San Francisco, California

Unlike many students working their way through college, Karis did not push the easy button when it came time to choose a job. Not only did she decide to become an EMT while attending school, she also chose to work in AMR’s San Francisco operations, one of the busiest EMS systems in the state.

On July 11, 2017, around 8:30 p.m., Karis was completing paperwork inside the ambulance while parked outside a local ER when she observed a woman approaching quickly carrying a one-year-old child. The boy had choked on a piece of cantaloupe, was not moving or talking, and his lips had started turning blue.

Karis’ training immediately kicked in and she jumped into action, moving first to back blows to attempt to dislodge the blockage, then chest thrusts and finally to finger sweeps, which ultimately dislodged the cantaloupe. The child immediately took a deep breath in, started crying, and regained his color. Karis said it was the most beautiful cry she had ever heard. Read Less

Laura Wolcott, Paramedic

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Rochester, New York

Laura has been a member of the AMR team since 2003. After becoming a Certified First Responder and then an EMT and volunteering at GVEMS/Caledonia Ambulance for six years, she realized she had found her calling. In 2005, she decided it was time to go back to school and get her paramedic certification. She received her certification in 2006.

In her work as a medic on the overnight shift at AMR, Laura has responded to many horrifically violent scen ...Read More

American Medical Response
Rochester, New York

Laura has been a member of the AMR team since 2003. After becoming a Certified First Responder and then an EMT and volunteering at GVEMS/Caledonia Ambulance for six years, she realized she had found her calling. In 2005, she decided it was time to go back to school and get her paramedic certification. She received her certification in 2006.

In her work as a medic on the overnight shift at AMR, Laura has responded to many horrifically violent scenes in the past year. She and her partner were the unfortunate witnesses of a near-homicide, having arrived on a scene for a non-specific emergency incident prior to law enforcement. Laura cared for the first critical patient on this scene after witnessing that patient being brutally attacked by a pitbull. She maintained her professional demeanor and composure, requesting law enforcement to the scene. This is only one of several high-stress incidents that Laura has responded to in the recent past. Laura responded to multiple mass shootings during the past several years. While she deals with her own emotions, Laura always works hard to help others cope with theirs. Laura is a medic who is always available to support others and continually works to enhance provider/responder safety in EMS by sharing her experiences with new providers. Laura is a resilient professional and as a full-time caregiver in a challenging urban environment, a most deserving "Star." Read Less

Lindsey Duff, AMR Air - Flight Nurse

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

AMR Air Ambulance
Englewood, Colorado

Lindsey has gone above and beyond her expected duties by volunteering for missions during her off-time. Some of these missions take her away from home for multiple days or weeks at a time. One of the missions Lindsey volunteered to complete was a very complex bariatric transport to the Middle East. No other company had the resources to complete this mission and Lindsey was not only responsible for patient care, but also had to take care of another medical crew member w ...Read More

AMR Air Ambulance
Englewood, Colorado

Lindsey has gone above and beyond her expected duties by volunteering for missions during her off-time. Some of these missions take her away from home for multiple days or weeks at a time. One of the missions Lindsey volunteered to complete was a very complex bariatric transport to the Middle East. No other company had the resources to complete this mission and Lindsey was not only responsible for patient care, but also had to take care of another medical crew member when she became seriously ill during the lengthy transport.

During AMR Air Ambulance’s more than four-month FEMA deployment to the Virgin Island’s hurricane relief for Irma and Maria, Lindsey spent six weeks deployed with only two breaks lasting less than a week each. She voluntarily sacrificed her personal time, as well as the holiday season, to support the Virgin Island community. Lindsey is truly a selfless and loyal flight nurse who provided strenuous patient evacuation while living in suboptimal conditions in a post-disaster zone. She received positive recognition from other air medical programs for her energetic and “can do” attitude and represented our organization with honor.
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Luke Tschirhart, Rural Metro - Firefighter and Paramedic II

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

Rural Metro Fire Department
Tucson, Arizona

Luke Tschirhart truly embodies AMR's core values through his dedication to the mission. He has been a part of the Rural Metro Fire Department family for more than 10 years, where he is known as a mentor, leader and friend. He spends countless extra duty hours working alongside our medical director, pre-hospital coordinator and leadership team to direct committees, perform research, participate in policy development and revision, as well as instructing most of ...Read More

Rural Metro Fire Department
Tucson, Arizona

Luke Tschirhart truly embodies AMR's core values through his dedication to the mission. He has been a part of the Rural Metro Fire Department family for more than 10 years, where he is known as a mentor, leader and friend. He spends countless extra duty hours working alongside our medical director, pre-hospital coordinator and leadership team to direct committees, perform research, participate in policy development and revision, as well as instructing most of our continuing education hours.

Luke is a Field Training Officer for new paramedics, training them in all aspects of the job while they are on probation. He is also a member of the department’s Technical Rescue Team, where he helped to design and build the program from the ground up. This included SOG/SOP development, equipment selection and countless training hours. No matter the time of day or number of calls, Luke responds promptly with a smile on his face to provide the best possible customer service and patient care. Read Less

Michael Schwenke, Paramedic and Lead Field Training Officer

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Effingham, Illinois (Abbott EMS)

In the Effingham, Illinois area Mike has been a respected member of the EMS community for 14 years. He enjoys teaching almost as much as being a paramedic. During his career he has taught countless numbers of first responders, EMTs and paramedics. Mike excels in his teaching and wants to make sure his coworkers can meet the same level of excellence he has for himself. While Mike has only been with Abbott EMS for one year, his dedication to the EMS ...Read More

American Medical Response
Effingham, Illinois (Abbott EMS)

In the Effingham, Illinois area Mike has been a respected member of the EMS community for 14 years. He enjoys teaching almost as much as being a paramedic. During his career he has taught countless numbers of first responders, EMTs and paramedics. Mike excels in his teaching and wants to make sure his coworkers can meet the same level of excellence he has for himself. While Mike has only been with Abbott EMS for one year, his dedication to the EMS profession has proven invaluable to the operation.

He wants everyone to be knowledgeable and takes the time to answer questions. Mike has met with local hospitals to train them on the airways used; they had not used IGELS prior to Abbott EMS. Mike has also made time to meet with the local fire departments to let them know what Abbott is doing and how they would be able to better help on emergency calls. Read Less

Nicholas Thayer, EMSA - Paramedic and Preceptor

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

EMSA
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Finding one’s place in the world can be a long, difficult process. And few have followed the same path— make that the same tracks—that Nicholas Thayer did early in his life. Nicholas spent three years during his early 20s living in boxcars and hopping freight trains. He traveled coast-to-coast by rail three times and then tried his hand at many different jobs: construction worker, musician, lifeguard and restaurant attendant before finding his calling in the emergenc ...Read More

EMSA
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Finding one’s place in the world can be a long, difficult process. And few have followed the same path— make that the same tracks—that Nicholas Thayer did early in his life. Nicholas spent three years during his early 20s living in boxcars and hopping freight trains. He traveled coast-to-coast by rail three times and then tried his hand at many different jobs: construction worker, musician, lifeguard and restaurant attendant before finding his calling in the emergency medical services field.

Nicholas worked as an EMT for a critical care transfer service in north Texas before joining the EMSA team in January 2012. He attended EMSA’s in-house paramedic program, graduating as valedictorian of his class in 2014. Though Nicholas’s academic achievement and unusual life journey are noteworthy, it’s his deep compassion and commitment to his team members and patients that make him a true star. “The most rewarding thing a human being can do is help another human being,” explains Nicholas. “I get to do that for living.” Read Less

Nicole (Nicky) Androski, EMT

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
San Diego, California

On May 18, 2017, Nicky and her partner, Thomas Hlava, came to stop at a traffic light. In front of them was what Nicky describes as a "very good-looking Corvette." As the light turned green, the Corvette started moving forward and then quickly stopped for no apparent reason. As they were about to pass, Nicky noticed another driver frantically pointing at the Corvette and making a choking sign.

Nicky immediately placed the ambulance i ...Read More

American Medical Response
San Diego, California

On May 18, 2017, Nicky and her partner, Thomas Hlava, came to stop at a traffic light. In front of them was what Nicky describes as a "very good-looking Corvette." As the light turned green, the Corvette started moving forward and then quickly stopped for no apparent reason. As they were about to pass, Nicky noticed another driver frantically pointing at the Corvette and making a choking sign.

Nicky immediately placed the ambulance in park and approached the driver’s side of the vehicle where she observed the driver slumped to the side and not moving. The vehicle started to move forward and Nicky sprinted after it. The Corvette was still moving forward at about 5 mph when Nicky finally caught up to the car. She could hear fast gasping respirations coming from the driver, but the door was locked. Luckily, the window was down and Nicky leaned through it to activate the emergency break, stopping the vehicle.

At this point, she tried to arouse the patient but he remained unresponsive. Nicky tried to locate the inside door handle but couldn't find it. She lowered the passenger side window, climbed into the vehicle and turned off the engine.

Nicky then performed a pulse check on the driver, which revealed no pulse. She began chest compressions while still in the passenger seat. With the assistance of her partner and an off-duty Rural Metro paramedic, a monitor was attached which identified patient was in VFib. It took two shocks, but the patient’s heart converted and he had a ROSC. An IV was accessed and fluids administered and the patient resumed breathing on his own.

Nicky later learned that she saved Dr. James Mankowski, retired U.S. Navy veteran and Doctor of Physics. Read Less

Randy Nichols, Paramedic and Education Director

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
LaGrange, Georgia

Randy has been a member of AMR in LaGrange, Georgia, for four years. He started as an EMT but quickly progressed to paramedic. He has also taken on additional duties including FTO/Shift Supervisor, Disaster Response Team member, Director of Education and part-time fleet mechanic—all while making sure that 74 people of his EMS family feel welcome.

Randy asked if AMR could start some education classes. Once he got the approval, he was off and r ...Read More

American Medical Response
LaGrange, Georgia

Randy has been a member of AMR in LaGrange, Georgia, for four years. He started as an EMT but quickly progressed to paramedic. He has also taken on additional duties including FTO/Shift Supervisor, Disaster Response Team member, Director of Education and part-time fleet mechanic—all while making sure that 74 people of his EMS family feel welcome.

Randy asked if AMR could start some education classes. Once he got the approval, he was off and running taking on the responsibility from ordering books to understanding the Georgia licensure requirements. He has developed an EMT Basic Class and an AEMT Class, while developing three Level 3 instructors. Word has gotten out about the success of the AMR LaGrange education programs and they are now hosting four classes and have a waiting list. All because Randy recognized the need to do better as an industry in teaching the next generation.

Randy’s compassion for his team and his never say no attitude has made him very approachable, which allows him to help everyone from day one of employment to team members that have been at AMR for over 20 years. As Randy would say—making AMR great in “Two Thousand One Eight!” Read Less

Robert Aberle, Paramedic/Reach and Treat Team Member

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

Clackamas County, Oregon
Lancaster, CA

In the early morning of August 5, 2017 Robert and his partner were dispatched to a patient that had fallen into a river while rappelling at Frustration Falls, a remote area of the Mt. Hood National Forest. The patient was reported to be in the water with a compound leg fracture. Rescuers initially estimated it would take 6-10 hours to get the injured man out of the canyon because of the sheer length of rope required. However, because of the remote location, difficult ...Read More

Clackamas County, Oregon
Lancaster, CA

In the early morning of August 5, 2017 Robert and his partner were dispatched to a patient that had fallen into a river while rappelling at Frustration Falls, a remote area of the Mt. Hood National Forest. The patient was reported to be in the water with a compound leg fracture. Rescuers initially estimated it would take 6-10 hours to get the injured man out of the canyon because of the sheer length of rope required. However, because of the remote location, difficult terrain and an inability to communicate by phone or radio, the rescue extended to 24 hours.

Robert hiked miles to locate the patient. Once located, Robert then began treating his injuries, administering medications and keeping the patient warm and comfortable. With no ability to communicate due to the remote location, Robert stayed with the patient until a Blackhawk helicopter could be activated to extract them the next morning.

For 17 years of Robert’s 19-year career in EMS, he has been a member of the Reach and Treat team. Robert is also an Ultra Runner and a personal trainer, and has recently started training the patient that he saved that day. Read Less

Rosemary O’Keefe-Kirschner, Operations Supervisor

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
New Haven, Connecticut

When someone thinks about AMR New Haven, their immediate thoughts would instinctively turn to Rosemary O'Keefe-Kirschner. She is simply the heart and soul of New Haven. There is not one employee who has not been positively affected by Rosemary. She constantly looks for ways to assist her co-workers and her community members who may need a helping hand. Rosemary is the kind of person who no matter what she may be experiencing personally, is always looking ...Read More

American Medical Response
New Haven, Connecticut

When someone thinks about AMR New Haven, their immediate thoughts would instinctively turn to Rosemary O'Keefe-Kirschner. She is simply the heart and soul of New Haven. There is not one employee who has not been positively affected by Rosemary. She constantly looks for ways to assist her co-workers and her community members who may need a helping hand. Rosemary is the kind of person who no matter what she may be experiencing personally, is always looking out for those around her. She is truly a selfless individual who will stop at nothing to help someone in their time of need.

Rosemary is the paramedic that employees look up to for many reasons. She is the one you go to for advice and mentorship or to discuss a difficult call. She has been honing her skills and serving this community for 39 years, and it all came together recently when she had a code-save of a 39-year-old female. Thanks to Rosemary's knowledge and experience this young mother of three returned home to her children. Read Less

Sheri Jones, Critical Care Paramedic

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Las Vegas, Nevada

Sheri was another hero on October 1, 2017. She was part of the initial wave of team members responding to “man down.” She made her way towards the incident and ended up at one of the nearby hotels finding multiple victims, all deceased. Knowing that the radio kept assigning additional calls as reports of multiple casualties and shooters came flooding the system, she remained determined to find someone that could use her help despite her heart being br ...Read More

American Medical Response
Las Vegas, Nevada

Sheri was another hero on October 1, 2017. She was part of the initial wave of team members responding to “man down.” She made her way towards the incident and ended up at one of the nearby hotels finding multiple victims, all deceased. Knowing that the radio kept assigning additional calls as reports of multiple casualties and shooters came flooding the system, she remained determined to find someone that could use her help despite her heart being broken by the carnage she saw.

She set up a triage area at the hotel and began treating hundreds of patients. She is credited with making a difference and saving many. In her 25 plus years of service, she has worked her way from EMT to CCT Paramedic and FTO. She instructs EMTs at the local community college, volunteers for long distance CCT calls, and anything that needs to be done. Always a caring voice for even the sickest of patients, she can be counted on to be an advocate for her patients as well as her partners. Read Less

Stacy Dockery, Critical Care Paramedic

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Las Vegas, Nevada (MedicWest)

On October. 1, 2017 Stacy Dockery was attending the Route 91 Festival when the gunfire rained down upon her. Her instincts kicked in and she shielded her best friend and then went to work assisting victims on the ground. She assisted other off-duty medical personnel with bleeding control, triage and loading patients into whatever vehicle they could find. As the incident continued to unfold, she realized the gravity of the situation and knew she would ...Read More

American Medical Response
Las Vegas, Nevada (MedicWest)

On October. 1, 2017 Stacy Dockery was attending the Route 91 Festival when the gunfire rained down upon her. Her instincts kicked in and she shielded her best friend and then went to work assisting victims on the ground. She assisted other off-duty medical personnel with bleeding control, triage and loading patients into whatever vehicle they could find. As the incident continued to unfold, she realized the gravity of the situation and knew she would be needed throughout the night.

She placed her friend in safety and sped towards the station. She donned her uniform, complete with her cowboy boots, jumped on a unit, and went to work running 911 calls. She ran calls into the night until the situation was under control. She was later featured in a NY Times video, where a reporter had captured her working on a patient in the concert venue. In her almost 10 years with MedicWest, she has become a counted on CCT paramedic that does what is needed, including working rodeos and other events. Read Less

Timothy Hoffman, Critical Care Paramedic

2018 Stars of Life Recipient

American Medical Response
Grand Rapids, Michigan

Tim Hoffman has been a dedicated AMR employee for more than 12 years. Tim grew up in Holland, Michigan and it was a natural step for him to become a paramedic. Tim’s father, John, is also a paramedic who works for AMR in Holland.

Tim started at AMR as a wheelchair van driver on August 16, 2005. He worked through school and became an EMT, then a Paramedic, and finally a Critical Care Paramedic. Tim had nearly perfect attendance throughout ...Read More

American Medical Response
Grand Rapids, Michigan

Tim Hoffman has been a dedicated AMR employee for more than 12 years. Tim grew up in Holland, Michigan and it was a natural step for him to become a paramedic. Tim’s father, John, is also a paramedic who works for AMR in Holland.

Tim started at AMR as a wheelchair van driver on August 16, 2005. He worked through school and became an EMT, then a Paramedic, and finally a Critical Care Paramedic. Tim had nearly perfect attendance throughout his employment. He frequently volunteered for charity runs and local community events.

Tim was easy going, well liked, warm hearted and always had a big smile.
Early in the morning of August 7, 2016, everything changed. Tim and his partner Kevin Jongekryg were on duty and at approximately 4:30 a.m., as they were driving through a rural coverage area, they were hit head on by a drunk driver. Tim was in critical condition with a devastating head injury.

After a arduous program of rehabilitation, on January 29, 2018, Tim returned to light duty work at AMR. He has verbalized that he loves to “help people” and still wants to be able to help in any way he can. Tim will always have that “care giver” spirit that sets apart our AMR employees.
It is wonderful to see how excited he is to be back in his uniform and working in the building. He has the same easy going, big smile and warm heart.

Tim is so proud to work for AMR and we are so happy to see how far he has come. Read Less