Courtesy: AdventHealth
Pictured left to right: Greg Pollock, Pasco County Fire Rescue Division Chief of EMS; Juan Gonzalez, Pasco County Fire Rescue EMS Supervisor; Mallory Davis, Director of Emergency Services; Jason Centro; Jessica Novak; William Villegas, COO AdventHealth Zephyrhills; Dr. Ryan Reed, CMO AdventHealth Zephyrhills
Courtesy: AdventHealth
Pictured left to right: Greg Pollock, Pasco County Fire Rescue Division Chief of EMS; Juan Gonzalez, Pasco County Fire Rescue EMS Supervisor; Jason Centro; Bryant Stuckey; William Villegas, COO AdventHealth Zephyrhills; Dr. Ryan Reed, CMO AdventHealth Zephyrhills
West Florida, — In celebration of National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week, AdventHealth Zephyrhills hosted a heartfelt ceremony to recognize the everyday heroes who serve on the front lines of emergency care. The EMS Recognition Ceremony, held Monday, May 19, gathered hospital leaders, first responders, and patients, to honor the brave men and women of Pasco County Fire Rescue.
The ceremony began with welcoming remarks and a prayer led by AdventHealth Zephyrhills Chief Operating Officer William Villegas, followed by powerful messages from hospital and EMS leadership.
“I am honored to recognize the incredible dedication and bravery of our Pasco County Fire Rescue EMS professionals,” said Mallory Davis, director of emergency services at AdventHealth Zephyrhills. “Whether you’re responding to accidents, medical emergencies, or natural disasters, you exemplify courage, compassion, and professionalism every time.”
The ceremony highlighted the critical partnership between EMS and hospital teams, a connection that proved lifesaving on March 14, when Jason Centro suffered a sudden cardiac arrest at home.
Centro, who attended the ceremony with his fiancée, experienced ventricular fibrillation—an often-fatal heart rhythm. His fiancée immediately began CPR, an act AdventHealth Zephyrhills Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ryan Reed described as “nothing short of heroic.”
Just six minutes later, Pasco County Fire Rescue’s Medic 4 and Engine 25 A shift arrived. The team administered two rounds of defibrillation and life-saving medications. Their quick, coordinated efforts restored Jason’s heartbeat before he was rushed to AdventHealth Zephyrhills.
In the emergency department, clinicians quickly identified signs of a massive heart attack—specifically, an acute inferior wall myocardial infarction. The cardiac catheterization team confirmed a total blockage of the right coronary artery, often referred to as “the widow maker.” Thanks to swift intervention and continued care, Jason was stabilized and discharged just five days later with a defibrillator implant to prevent future episodes.
“Jason’s survival is a testament to the extraordinary collaboration between our EMS and hospital teams,” said Dr. Reed. “The dedication and expertise shown by every person involved in his care changed not only his life, but the lives of everyone who loves him.”
As part of the ceremony, first responders Jessica Novak and Bryant Stuckey were called up to receive a certificate of recognition and the gratitude of a community they serve tirelessly.
National EMS Week, celebrated annually in May, is a time to shine a spotlight on the work of EMS professionals who provide critical, life-saving care in the most urgent of moments. This year’s ceremony was not just about recognizing skills—it was a moving tribute to the compassion, courage, and connection that defines emergency medicine.
“EMS providers are true unsung heroes who step up every day with courage and compassion,” said Mallory Davis. “This ceremony is an opportunity to thank them publicly and recognize the impact they make not only in the hospital setting but throughout our community.”
As EMS Week continues, AdventHealth Zephyrhills encourages the community to show their appreciation for local emergency responders—men and women who deliver hope, healing, and life when it matters most.