Greenville, Ohio (5-17-26) — In recognition of National EMS Week (May 17–23, 2026), Spirit EMS proudly joins EMS agencies across the nation in honoring the dedicated professionals who provide lifesaving care every day. This year’s national theme, “Improving Outcomes, Together,” highlights the essential role collaboration plays in delivering high-quality patient care and strengthening communities.


From left to right, CDST Director Sarah Stump, President & CEO Brian K. Hathaway, and Captain Paramedic Will Gardam of Spirit EMS stand on the steps of the U.S. Capitol during the American Ambulance Association Stars of Life event in Washington, D.C., representing their organization and the EMS profession on a national stage. 

As EMS Week shines a spotlight on the profession, Spirit EMS also recognizes the national achievement of two of its team members, CDST Director Sarah Stump and Captain Paramedic Will Gardam, who were recently honored at the American Ambulance Association’s Stars of Life Celebration in Washington, D.C. They were among 147 EMS professionals from 34 states recognized for their outstanding contributions to emergency medical services before peers, national leaders, and members of the Congress and Senate. Their recognition reflects not only individual excellence but also the collective work of EMS professionals who improve patient outcomes through teamwork, leadership, and service.

The EMS Week theme, “Improving Outcomes, Together,” is reflected daily in the work of Spirit EMS personnel. It highlights the collaboration between communications specialists, field providers, healthcare systems, and communities to ensure patients receive the best possible care from the moment a call is placed through treatment and recovery. That commitment is clearly demonstrated through the contributions of both Stump and Gardam.

Sarah Stump, Director of the Communications and Documentation Special Team, a collaborative unit combining dispatch and billing, plays a key role in keeping Spirit EMS operations running smoothly and effectively. She oversees daily communication and documentation functions, supports staff development through training, and works closely with hospital partners to strengthen care coordination. Her efforts directly influence both response efficiency and patient outcomes. Known for her calm and reassuring presence, she has guided countless callers through emergency situations while also supporting the crews providing care in the field. She remains actively involved in education and community outreach, helping to inspire and prepare the next generation of EMS professionals.

Captain Paramedic Will Gardam demonstrates strong leadership and teamwork on the front lines of EMS. Originally from Australia, he brought his commitment to emergency medicine to the United States and quickly advanced into a leadership role at Spirit EMS, where he now supervises multiple field crews throughout western Ohio and eastern Indiana. Known for his professionalism, compassion, and dedication, he provides steady support to both patients and fellow providers while upholding high standards of clinical care. His ability to lead and work effectively in fast-paced, ever-changing situations reflects the spirit of this year’s EMS Week theme, teams working together to achieve better outcomes.

The American Ambulance Association’s Stars of Life program is among the highest honors in EMS, recognizing individuals who go above and beyond in service and patient care. For Spirit EMS, the recognition of Stump and Gardam is a point of pride and a reflection of the values shared throughout the organization.

Brian K. Hathaway, President & CEO of Spirit EMS

“EMS Week is a powerful reminder that the work we do is never done alone.The theme ‘Improving Outcomes, Together’ speaks directly to our mission. Sarah and Will represent the dedication, teamwork, and compassion that define EMS professionals everywhere, and we are incredibly proud to see them recognized on the national stage.”

During EMS Week, Spirit EMS honors all members of the EMS community—dispatchers, EMTs, paramedics, educators, and support staff—whose daily efforts make a lifesaving difference. Their work demonstrates that through collaboration, commitment, and compassion, EMS professionals continue to improve outcomes for patients and communities across the country.

About Spirit EMS


Spirit EMS, with locations in Celina, Defiance, Greenville, Houston, Van Wert, and Liberty, IN, is a leading provider of mobile healthcare services across the western regions of Ohio and eastern regions of Indiana, committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care through innovation, education, and strong community partnerships.