EMS heroes honored at ceremony in Lansing
The Michigan Association of Ambulance Services recognized the life-saving work of 21 EMS practitioners across the state, including seven first responders in Macomb and Oakland counties.
The recognition was part of the biennial Stars of Life ceremony, which took place Sept. 21 in Lansing, to celebrate ambulance professionals who go above and beyond the call of duty to serve their communities, according to a press release.
“After serving on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic for more than a year, Michigan’s EMS professionals deserve our utmost appreciation,” MAAS Executive Director Angela Madden said in the press release.
The honorees included:
• Christopher Barnes, Southfield: Critical care paramedic, Superior Ambulance. Chris was nominated to Stars of Life for his work onboarding a large contingent of Superior’s workforce.
• Roxanne Cottrell, Mount Clemens: EMT, Medstar. Cottrell demonstrates compassion and caring towards the patients and family members she interacts with.
• Kimberly Fujiwara, Wixom: Critical care paramedic, Superior Ambulance. Fujiwara was nominated for her exceptional work ethic and dedication.
• Richard Gallo, Pontiac: EMT, STAR EMS. Gallo serves as a role model and mentor for all coworkers, regardless of tenure.
• Lee Howie, Bay City: Educator, Medstar operations in Macomb/Oakland counties. Howie was nominated for his dedication to teaching and mentoring students.
• Danielle Paton, Clinton Township: EMT, Superior Ambulance. Paton was nominated for her dedication to Superior Ambulance and its employees, especially during the past year, as the company increased personnel and operations. Paton also volunteered to assist in opening a new operation in Ohio.
• Heather Pierpoint, Pontiac: EMT, STAR EMS. Pierpoint has worked with High Functioning Behavioral youth diagnosed with Autism. She went back to school to become an EMT and uses her compassion and understanding of others in daily interactions with her patients and coworkers.
The Michigan Association of Ambulance Services For more information, visit www.miambulance.org.