Regional West EMS Celebrates Emergency Intervention Commendation Award Recipients

Last October, Regional West’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team responded to a call for a serious motor vehicle accident. When they arrived, Danielle Becker, DVM, and Kodie Woodral, LVT, Elite FFCP (Veterinary), from Wyobraska Veterinary Services, were already on the scene and had placed a tourniquet on the patient to control life-threatening bleeding. Danielle and Kodie stayed by the patient’s side and supported EMS professionals as they established IV access for a whole blood transfusion. Because of their quick actions, the patient went on to make a remarkable recovery.

Regional West’s EMS team recently awarded the pair the Emergency Intervention Commendation Award. This award is given to individuals who render meaningful care prior to EMS arrival, making a difference in the lives of our patients. Kodie and Danielle are the first recipients.

“This is a powerful example that our EMS system doesn’t begin when the ambulance pulls up – it begins the moment someone in the community decides to act,” said Regional West EMS Clinical Coordinator Robby Rhembrandt, NRP, FP-C, CCP-C, C-NPT. “While not every day offers the opportunity to save a life, Danielle and Kodie rose to that rare occasion with poise, skill, and selflessness.”

“When an accident occurs, it requires a coordinated response from law enforcement, the fire department, and EMS. At times, community members also step in to provide critical assistance before first responders arrive. This is exactly what happened last October,” said Marisa Nicol, RN, Regional West executive director of Emergency Services. “It was an honor to present this inaugural award to Dr. Becker and Kodie. Congratulations to both on this well-deserved recognition.”

Thank you, Danielle and Kodie, for bravely stepping up and providing lifesaving care!