Board of Directors
With an ongoing and extended career of over 40 years in the commercial/industrial construction industry, there exists the exposure to a multitude of hazards and sometimes injury.
As in any industry, prevention is our preference, however accidents happen for a myriad of unforeseen reasons. This is why all types of safety are necessary to help prevent these incidents.
Key ingredients to the success of responding to an accident begins with education and then exercising the abilities to physically and mentally react with the intent to control the scene and not let it get worse while addressing our first obligation in helping the injured.
The obligation to commit oneself requires the consideration of not only managing the obvious medical concerns, but also the mindset of the injured and the components of the scene and environment for which it took place.
Whether it be in a work related environment, a family gathering, a social event, driving a vehicle, operating construction equipment, or riding a motorcycle, the knowledge you invest in is applicable in any scenario, and it’s priceless!!!
Working in the construction industry has proven to me that there are no two accidents that are the same although similarities can occur, so being prepared with knowledge and experience is mandated by conscience alone. To be be exposed to a situation that you are unqualified or helpless, for me that is not acceptable!! I’m certain most people feel the same. With that in mind, the EMS Roaddocs Illinois offer a variety of opportunities to learn and be effective especially in a rural area where timing can be critical for the injured as first responders are enroute.
Being involved with the EMS Roaddocs Illinois and making oneself available for the activities that the EMS Roaddocs are requested to attend, makes for a great blend of overlapping scenarios where our experience is both useful and rewarding. Being an NFP 501(c)3 organization, shows a level of dedication, adventure, and integrity that many people possess yet need The opportunity to manifest.
I feel I am surrounded by many such people which makes this part of the biking community preferred. Inevitably, in every avenue we walk in life or any gathering or long distance ride, there are countless opportunities for the EMS Roaddocs Illinois experience to be an asset.
I found the EMS Roaddocs at a motorcycle show in Chicago and was intrigued by their people and their purpose. They provide medical support for veterans, charity motorcycle rides, charity 5K runs and more. I intended to just give a donation but ended up signing up as a member and have not looked back since. I have found a second family! I have been around first aid all my life while in the Boy Scouts (Eagle Scout 1983) and my twin brother who is a retired Lieutenant Fireman/Paramedic. The EMS Roaddocs offered me opportunities to further expand my first aid and emergency response skills over the years.
I progressed from First Aid/CPR-AED training to Certified First Responder training and recently completed my Certificate of EMR (Emergency Medical Responder) from the Illinois Department of Public Health. My background is in Accounting and IT even though I have a Music Performance Degree (saxophone). I am busy playing in multiple bands in the Chicago area and have travelled the US with a few artists and bands. Music is a balance in my life and something that I thoroughly enjoy.
My mantra is even though I did not take the opportunity to serve our country, I will find any opportunity to thank and honor those who do or have served. This group allows me a unique opportunity to honor our veterans and help those who may not be able to help themselves. It is a way to keep them safe from harm or to render them medical assistance should the need arise. I want to be as prepared as I can and this family affords me those opportunities to increase my medical skills and put them to use.
Knowledge Conquers Fear!
Retired Fire Chief with 44 years of service and currently a Public Safety Consultant. I served on the Board of Directors for the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) for over 6 years, and as President and Chairman of the Board in 2012-2013. I served on the executive board for the Great Lakes Division of the IAFC and the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association. During my career, I have testified on behalf of the fire service at the White House, Congressional Homeland Security committees, and the Illinois State Senate. As a Fire Chief, both for a Fire Protection District and a Municipal Department, I worked with multi-million-dollar budgets, capital improvement projections, and was responsible for the Code Enforcement Department for the Village of Hoffman Estates.
For the last six years I have been on the Board for The Africa Fire Mission out of Cincinnati, Ohio and travel to Kenya and Zambia on an annual basis to teach fire service leadership.
After serving in the US Army, 82nd Airborne Military Police/CID company during Vietnam. I completed my BS degree and a Master’s in Public Administration. I also hold a Commercial pilots license in both Fixed Wing and Helicopter.
Don Lukes
Hello, my name is Don Lukes and I reside in Crown Point, Indiana and I ride motorcycles because my parents did not want me to. I started out riding dirt bikes and moved to moto cross bikes. I currently own several Husky moto cross, one KDX 250, a RL 250 trials, three h 500 Kawasaki in my collection. but currently ride a 99 Road king and a 2012 road king on the road.
I am currently a certified EMT in Indiana and Illinois and deeply honored to be with a group of friends that give of themselves to help other people, this alone speaks volumes. In addition to this I am also a Lake County Deputy Sheriff and also enjoy helping other people. I would like time to thank Paco for engaging in conversation with encouraging me to join this fine group, and all of its members.
Steve is passionate about Paying it Forward. He believes wholeheartedly in serving the local community. As a national medical instructor, he is proud to contribute toward the increased numbers with values, morals, and respect among those he has trained while adding to the numbers of medically trained people available for those who may need medical intervention in the future. His strong support for the military and their families by actively being involved in programs such as Warriors’ Watch Riders, Patriot Guard Riders, and Honor Flight. All of which provide a truly emotional experience in welcoming home a returning soldier to his or her family. Likewise, it is very humbling to give honor, appreciation, and respect to WWII, Korean, and other war veterans participating in a visit to Washington DC for recognition and appreciation of their service to their country. Steve is deeply honored to be an American and he flies the American flag proudly.
I grew up on the Southside of Chicago and have been riding motorcycles since the early 70’s. My wife Rhonda and I have been married for over 35 years and have 2 grown children . . . both of whom are RoadDocs as well! I have always volunteered to teach and help others in and around our community in various organizations including CERT, MobilComm, Interfaith mission trips, AARP’s driver refresher course and Adopt-A-Highway. I own and operate a Child Safety company that educates families about the dangers in and around their homes and then follow up with suggestions of safety gate installation, securing cabinets and furniture and various other devices designed to keep their toddlers safe. Our company is also the exclusive Chicagoland installer for a unique line of hardwood safety gates designed for seniors, families with special needs members and those with large dogs.
I first interacted with RoadDocs at a Pediatric Brain Tumor charity ride out of Lake Geneva and decided right then and there that I wanted to join up and volunteer with them as well. Over the years I’ve taken every opportunity to further my medical knowledge and participate as medical support for any charity event or 5K offered. I enjoy being an officer with our Harley chapter in Palatine acting as Activities Director (with Rhonda) where we’ll organize a variety of gatherings and parties over the year and a Road Captain where I’ll plan or sweep dozens of rides throughout the riding season. My medical knowledge gained from RoadDocs has been useful a handful of times already and I look forward to helping others anytime the opportunity presents itself.
Hi, my name is Herminio “Paco” Perez. I was born in Mexico City, Mexico in 1971. My first experience with emergency medical services occurred while I was still in Mexico where I served as a paramedic for the Mexican Red Cross for over 10 years.
I am a retired EMT in the state of Illinois. I am a former national CPR instructor with the American Heart Association and I am now currently an Emergency Medical Responder.
EMS Road Docs provided me with an opportunity to combine two of my biggest passions; motorcycles which I’ve been riding for over 30 years and EMS.
I have been a part of the EMS Road Docs for 10 years and it is now my distinct honor to serve on the Board of Directors. I am a supporter of our armed forces and some of my favorite EMS Road Docs events are ones where we can show our appreciation to our servicemen and women.
With the EMS Road Docs, I have found more than just an organization. I have found a group of friends who all share the same desires when it comes to charity, riding motorcycles, and helping in any way we can. I look forward to maintaining these traditions and I hope that I can be helping hand to anyone who might be in need.
I was introduced to the EMS ROADDOCS while attending the Autism Speaks ride about 4 years ago. When I was introduced to the director Steve I knew I had found a riding group that would fit me well. Being on the Board is a privilege. I hope to contribute in making decisions that will help keep this wonderful organization moving forward.
Even though I have had my motorcycle license since 1988 I have only truly been riding for 4 years now.
Joining the ROADDOCS has allowed me share my knowledge of being a health care provider. Not only riding on charity rides but also teaching CPR and First responder’s class.
I have 38 years of nursing experience. I am currently a Perianesthesia nurse as well as being the educator at the facility I work at. I have experience in ICU and Trauma as well. I am a mother of two wonderful daughters and have been married for 29 years.
I am a huge supporter of our Veterans and our men and women who work in the EMS services. I enjoy giving back to the community and find this organization is what it is all about. Whether I am riding my 2014 HD Softtail classic in a sanctioned ride or sitting outside the MSV at one of the 5K’s, the joy of being with a phenomenal group of caring fun people is what has made being part of this organization truly fulfilling. For me sharing my knowledge, learning from others, and enjoying the company of great people in this organization is what I love the most.
Retired firefighter after 32 years and I enjoy the outdoors to relax. Oh yes, got to have my bourbon.