Members of the Howard County Ambulance district were recently recognized for their role in saving a patient’s life during a cardiac emergency in March. Those recognized include Caitlyn Atwood, Matt Bricker, Tim Flaspohler, Xavier Barton, and Aven Bange.

The crew was able to restore the patient’s heartbeat and circulation, an outcome referred to in emergency medicine as a “clinical save.”

According to national data, outcomes such as this are relatively rare. The average rate of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) following cardiac arrest is about 10 percent.

So far this year, Howard County Ambulance has responded to five cardiac arrest calls in 2026. Incidents such as these highlight the realities faced by emergency responders, particularly in rural communities where ambulance services often serve as a primary source of urgent medical care, the district asserts.

Officials say the recognition reflects the team’s training and ability to respond effectively in high-pressure situations.