MANCHESTER- On July 19, 2018 The Ambulance Service of Manchester was invited to attend a safety event at South Windsor KinderCare. Organized by the Center Director, the day encouraged kids to interact with EMS personnel in order to gain a sense of familiarity with first responders. ASM EMT’s Danielle Chowaniec and Chris Tevnan provided ambulance tours, posed for pictures and handed out coloring books to those in attendance.
MANCHESTER- In mid-July, a patient recently treated by Paramedic Matt Traber, EMT Tracy Luetjen and student observer Briyanna Decaprio visited Ambulance Service of Manchester’s Headquarters after sending in the following request.
“I was in [an accident recently] after having a [medical emergency]. [I so badly want to meet the crew who responded to thank them]. My memory is so spotty and I was completely out of it but I can vaguely remember faces. What I will absolutely never forget was how incredibly compassionate everyone was.”
“I met the crew who helped me today and couldn’t be any more grateful for having the chance to do so. You guys are the best!! Thanks for all you’ve done for me and all you do for everyone else in the community.”
Photo and quotations appear with permission.
HARTFORD- On Monday, July 16th, 2018, Aetna Supervisor’s Bob Mara and Matt Campbell, along with EMT’s Alex Patetta and Shivani Patel were invited to attend an event at Templo Fe Church on Broad Street. The day encouraged kids (ages 3-12) to interact with EMS personnel in order to gain a sense of familiarity with first responders. Hartford Police and Fire Department are set to participate as well later in the week. Aetna staff members provided ambulance tours, posed for pictures and handed out coloring books to those in attendance.
MANCHESTER- In late June 2018, ASM Paramedic Greg Derosier and EMT Heather Marshall received a handwritten card from a patient’s wife expressing her sincere gratitude for the service they provided. The card reads:
“I wish to thank you for the wonderful care and kindness shown to my husband when you transported him from [Hospital] to [Hospital]. You were both so considerate to myself and [my husband] and you helped to put a smile back on my face. Thank You! After talking to you both, I knew my husband was in the best of care.”
WETHERSFIELD — In late June, 2018, Aetna received another heartfelt Thank You letter directed to Paramedic Michael Bouley and EMT Brandon Butler. The card reads:
“Your EMT/Paramedic’s were very professional. They explained in full detail how they would carry me in a special chair down 14 stairs (I live in raised ranch). I felt very, very confident in their strength, calmness and positive attitude. If I have need in the future for transportation to the hospital, I would like your company to assist me. Thank you.”
MANCHESTER – As of June 13th, 2018, ASM’s David Tedeschi has been cleared by Eastern Connecticut Health Network medical control for independent dispatch as a paramedic to the towns that ASM serves. His preceptors were Paramedic Supervisor Josh Traber and Paramedic Greg Derosier. Dave was hired at the Ambulance Service of Manchester in December, 2011. He offered the following sentiment regarding his time at ASM:
I started working at ASM about 7 years ago. After spending time as an EMT, I wanted to do more in the medical field. I decided to enroll in the Capital Community College Paramedic Program and graduated this past December. I look forward to practicing medicine as a paramedic in the area that ASM covers. I want to thank my preceptors for their knowledge and guidance during my journey.
As with all precepting phases at ASM, his final approval came from Eastern Connecticut Health Network after shadowing him and his preceptors in the field as they responded to emergency calls. On behalf of the ASM Family, we would like to wish Dave the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.
MANCHESTER — On June 25th, 2018 one Dispatcher, one Paramedic and four EMTs were added to the ASM team. As part of our continued growth, Aetna and ASM seek out only the best candidates. We look for employees who are focused on high-quality patient care, are team oriented and conduct themselves in a professional manner. During the orientation, employees learn about company philosophy and goals, quality assurance, and policies and procedures.
Jonathan Robarge: FULL TIME, PARAMEDIC. My name is Jonathan Robarge. I am 25 years old. I have been working in commercial EMS for 3 years as an EMT. I attended Capitol Community College to get my paramedic license for the last 18 months. During ride time, I spent a majority of my hours at ASM and was impressed with the feedback and teamwork of the crews I worked with. I am excited to grow as a paramedic in this company. In my off time, I enjoy hiking, mountain biking, traveling and boating with my wife and 9 month old yellow lab Epi.
Megan Stevenson: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Megan and I am 22 years old. I am an East Hartford resident and I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Allied Health Sciences at the University of Connecticut. I am an active volunteer for the town of Glastonbury EMS and am eager to begin more work with ASM. I plan to graduate from UConn in the spring of 2019 and continue to work and gain experience in the medical field. Following my undergraduate degree, I hope to attend graduate school to pursue a career as a Physician’s Assistant.
Carolyn Edwards: FULL TIME, DISPATCHER. Hi my name is Carolyn Edwards, former full time EMT @ ASM for 5 years (03/2009-11/2014), currently joining the dispatch crew. Took a few general studies classes @ MCC. Interested in learning & getting back to action in the EMS field. Forever immensely grateful for all that has been done for me during my time away from EMS & for all of my teachers (EMS colleagues & coworkers, medical field professionals, professors & patients) that helped me arrive at the humbling truth of how much I had to learn & just how much I didn’t know. I look forward to learning dispatch & many more great times.
Chris Melite: FULL TIME, EMT. Hi! My name is Chris Melite and I am 27 years old. I grew up in the small town of Canton, CT and moved to Vernon, CT two years ago. I received my EMT-B certification from Code One early this year. I am an active member of the Town of Vernon Fire Department as a volunteer Firefighter/EMT. I graduated in 2014 from the University of New Haven with my bachelor’s degree.
In my free time I enjoy working out, hiking, camping, and SCUBA diving. I am very excited to pursue a career with the ASM team, and the opportunities that it presents.
Greg Cataford: FULL TIME, EMT. Hello, my name is Greg Cataford. I have spent many years working in the service industry. Over the past year, I have been transitioning my focus and passions into the EMS field after completing my EMT certification through New Britain EMS Academy. I have been a full time volunteer at Glastonbury EMS during this time.
I aspire to obtain my paramedic license in the next two years. I am looking forward to growing personally and professionally during my time at ASM.
HARTFORD — On June 25th, 2018, two EMTs, one Paramedic and one Dispatcher were added to the Aetna team. As part of our continued growth, Aetna and ASM seek out only the best candidates. We look for employees who are focused on high-quality patient care, are team oriented and conduct themselves in a professional manner. During the orientation, employees learn about company philosophy and goals, quality assurance, and policies and procedures.
Hannah Knight: FULL TIME, EMT. Hi, my name is Hannah Knight I’m 24 (for a few more days), and I live in Norwich, CT. I have been an EMT and in commercial EMS for about a year and a half now and involved with several fire departments for the last 11 years! My goal is to start medic school in the next year or so. On my off time, I love going to the beach or pool. I’m very excited to start my career here with all of you!
Micah Davis: FULL TIME DISPATCHER/EMT. Hello I’m Micah Davis. I’m from West Hartford CT. I’m a volunteer EMT at Rocky Hill. Due to age requirements I’m blessed to get the opportunity to work as a Dispatcher at Aetna, and seek to extend my education all the way to paramedic school in future. My goal is to be the best part of someone’s worst day.
Monica Hildebrand: FULL TIME EMT. Hi, my name is Monica Hildebrand. I’m from Middletown, CT where I’ve lived for the past 16 years. I have been an EMT for 4 years. I’ve also been volunteering in Rocky Hill as an EMT for roughly the same amount of time. Additionally, I have worked at CCMC as an EEG tech and I’ve done home healthcare. Currently, I’m finishing up my Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences. My ultimate goal is to either go on to nursing or public health. I am very excited for the opportunity to work at Aetna!
Alex Patetta: FULL TIME, EMT. My name is Alex Patetta, I am originally from New Jersey, but have lived in Connecticut for the last 5 years. I graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing with a minor in International Business. I was a volunteer firefighter in New Jersey prior to coming to Connecticut. My future goal is to become a career firefighter. Outside of my intended career path, I enjoy focusing on a healthy lifestyle which includes working out and playing sports. I am very excited for this new opportunity as an EMT and look forward to the new experiences it will bring.
MANCHESTER – As of June 9th, 2018, ASM’s Tom MacLean has been cleared by Eastern Connecticut Health Network medical control for independent dispatch as a paramedic to the towns that ASM serves. His preceptors were Paramedic Supervisor Tim Lachappelle and Paramedic Scott Crittenden. Tom was hired at the Ambulance Service of Manchester in September, 2014. He offered the following sentiment regarding his time at ASM:
“I started at ASM nearly 4 years ago and quickly developed a passion for emergency medicine. I graduated from New Britain EMS Academy’s paramedic program this past January and look forward to the experience of working as a higher level provider. I must thank my preceptors for the incredible knowledge they helped instill upon me, as well as the many other coworkers who have supported me during this time. Thank you.”
As with all precepting phases at ASM, his final approval came from Eastern Connecticut Health Network after shadowing him and his preceptors in the field as they responded to emergency calls. On behalf of the ASM Family, we would like to wish Tom the best of luck and say we are very proud to have such skilled professionals on staff.
SOUTH WINDSOR- On Saturday June 10th, Ambulance Service of Manchester, South Windsor Police Department, and Masonic Lodge #88 joined forces to collect food and monetary donations at the annual South Windsor Food & Fuel Bank Drive. Donations were accepted at Geissler’s Supermarket and Stop & Shop. At the end of the day, 90 boxes of food (2300 items) went on the shelves along with $1478.83 in cash and gift cards.
Thanks to everyone who volunteered and to those that made contributions!
MANCHESTER- On Friday June 8th, 2018 Ambulance Service of Manchester EMTs Mikhail Uddin and Kayla Fortin attended a veteran’s recognition and flag retirement ceremony hosted by iCare’s Touchpoints at Manchester. The event marked the opening of the facility’s veteran care program, the first of its kind in the region for both short and long-term care. The flag retirement was conducted by veterans and first responders, a significant moment for Kayla, who is who is to receive her commission as a Medical Officer in the Army National Guard this coming August. To learn more about the event and what the program has to offer, please read the Hartford Courant article below.
MANCHESTER- On Thursday June 7, Ambulance Service of Manchester Paramedic and Education Supervisor Melissa Osborne and her EMS Instructor Class helped out the local community by teaching the American Heart Association HeartSaver CPR Training at the Mahoney Recreation Center. Individuals of all ages attended and learned valuable lessons about CPR from both ASM and AETNA staff. This class is offered on a yearly basis as part of National CPR & AED Awareness Week.
MANCHESTER-On Friday May 18, Ambulance Service of Manchester EMTs, Orlando Diaz and Karisa Welch visited Pitkin Elementary for a Career Day. Groups of students ranging from first-graders to sixth-graders had the opportunity to learn more about the EMT profession in an engaging way. The day featured demonstrations of popular medical equipment and a tour of one of our ambulances.
This year’s EMS week was another great success! Thank you again to all employees for your consistent efforts. You deserve the recognition!
HARTFORD — On May 14th, 2018, three EMTs, one Paramedic and one Dispatcher were added to the Aetna team. As part of our continued growth, Aetna and ASM seek out only the best candidates. We look for employees who are focused on high-quality patient care, are team oriented and conduct themselves in a professional manner. During the orientation, employees learn about company philosophy and goals, quality assurance, and policies and procedures.
Ashley O’Connell: FULL TIME, EMT. Hello, my name is Ashley O’Connell and I am 25 years old. I graduated from Adelphi University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. I currently live in Plainville, CT, where I am a volunteer firefighter. My future goals are to become a career firefighter and a paramedic. I have 2 rescue dogs and enjoy running, hiking, and snowboarding. I’m very excited to start as an EMT for Aetna and I’m grateful for the opportunity!
Tori Thomson: FULL TIME, EMT. I am a recent graduate of UConn where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Master in Health Promotion. Throughout college and graduate school my interest lied in the area of food and nutrition so I also recently finished a dietetic internship to become an RD. However, as a former athlete and nurse’s aide I have always had more of a knack for hands on work. It was with this realization that I decided to take the EMT course at CPR Training Professionals in South Windsor. After a job search for both EMT and RD work, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to become a member of the Aetna team! As a lifelong learner, I can’t wait to see what new challenges await me at Aetna and what direction it will point me for my career.
Dennis Wynne: FULL TIME, DISPATCHER. My name is Dennis Wynne. I’ve been a Volunteer Firefighter for the town of Plainville for close to 13 years. I have been dispatching for the same Department for 7 years. On my off time I enjoy spending time with my family and taking small vacations when possible. I’m looking forward to working for Aetna and learning new skills.
Jayson Braman: FULL TIME, PARAMEDIC. My name is Jayson and I am from Wolcott, CT but recently moved to East Hartford. I attained my paramedic certification from New Britain EMS Academy and have been working for Wolcott Ambulance for the past year as a paramedic with medical control through St. Mary’s Hospital in Waterbury. Prior to that, I had worked three years as an EMT for AMR and Wolcott. I also spent 6 years volunteering for Wolcott Fire Dept. I aspire to continue helping people as I further my education in the EMS field. I plan to acquire my Respiratory Therapist certification and one day become a flight medic. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling around the world and being outdoors.
James Davis: PART TIME, EMT. Hello my name is James Davis I am a Connecticut native. I became an EMT because I have a passion for helping others. Along with being an EMT, I am also a career Firefighter. My goal is to expand my knowledge as an EMT and inter-grade that knowledge into my everyday life. I enjoy watching sports, working out, spending time with my family and traveling. I am overly zealous to be part of the Aetna Team!