East Central Reporter

Three paramedics from Horizon Health have been recognized at the national level for their response to a heart attack emergency earlier this year. Paramedics Trevan Land, Jessica Hopper, and Sydney Lowry were each presented with a Challenge Coin from Carle Regional Emergency Medical Services (CREMS), which includes Horizon Health.

The Challenge Coin program, which started in the US military and later expanded to civilian emergency services, recognizes outstanding performance by EMS professionals. The coins are specially designed for EMS staff and serve as a mark of distinction within the field.

Samantha McCarty, director of emergency services at Horizon Health, said, “Our ambulance crews frequently face uncertainty upon arriving at emergency scenes, where they must rely on their expertise and swift action. This award is a testament to their exceptional response in the face of a critical situation.”

The three paramedics were chosen from among 1,400 responders across the CREMS network, one of eleven EMS regions in Illinois. Each month, only five Challenge Coins are distributed across the region to highlight exceptional service. Within EMS circles, receiving a Challenge Coin is considered comparable to the DAISY Award given to nurses for extraordinary care.

Horizon Health’s Emergency Medical Services have received continued recognition for excellence in treating heart attacks and strokes. In 2025, they earned the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Achievement Award after having received Silver Achievement status in 2024—an honor that represents the highest achievement possible for an organization during its first year of eligibility.