09/09/2026
Today, ones of River Medicals own had the honor of receiving the 554 Foundation award. Ryan Ponce was nominated and selected as the First Responder of the second quarter of 2026.
In our organization, we are proud of our EMTs and Paramedics to be recognized at any level, and this is an outstanding award to have received.
Here is what the 554 Foundation said about Ryan.
“Today, 554 Foundation is honored to recognize Ryan Ponce as our First Responder of the Quarter. ❤️💙
I want to share a little bit about how we choose these recipients because I think it makes this recognition even more special.
The nominations are reviewed through a blind judging process, meaning the judge doesn’t know who they are choosing. I didn’t personally choose Ryan. Honestly, neither did 554.
Mike’s mom did.
And when I read Ryan’s nomination after the fact, something really hit me. The things Ryan was being recognized for are so much like the things I remember about Mike. Ryan doesn’t just serve people because it’s his job. He shows up for people. He takes care of others. He works long shifts, goes without sleep, and then comes home and continues taking care of his family. He’s a husband. He’s a dad. He takes his daughter to tournaments, makes sure his wife is taken care of, keeps things running, helps others without being asked, takes care of vehicles, and steps up for his extended family when they need him. He’s dependable. He’s selfless. He’s the person people can count on. Those are the exact qualities that made Mike who he was. That’s what makes this recognition so special to me.
When we started 554 Foundation in Mike’s memory, the goal wasn’t just to remember Mike. It was to continue recognizing and supporting the people who carry those same qualities forward. And today, we get to recognize someone who without anyone knowing who they were judging ended up reflecting so much of what Mike stood for.
I don’t think that’s something we could have planned. Sometimes things just happen the way they’re supposed to.
Ryan, congratulations. Thank you for what you do for our community, for your family, and for the people who count on you.
From our family and everyone at 554 Foundation, thank you for being the kind of first responder who doesn’t just wear the title… you live it.
Congratulations, Ryan. ❤️💙”
Our company and community is very proud of you Ryan! Keep doing what you do!
