posted August 18, 2025

Reunion Coincided with World Helicopter Day, Marking Importance of Air Medical Service

HAGERSTOWN, MD — Aug. 18, 2025 — In a moment filled with emotion and gratitude, former patient Jason Fisher and his family reunited with LifeNet 8-1’s Flight Paramedic Mike Peck at Rider Jet Center in Hagerstown. The reunion took place on World Helicopter Day on Aug. 17, honoring the role of helicopters and air medical crews in saving lives. Fisher expressed his appreciation for the critical care transport that played a pivotal role in saving his life. 

“There’s no real way to explain what it feels like to look into the eyes of someone who helped save your life,” said Fisher. “To see that person again, it was like seeing part of the reason I’m still here.”

What began as a routine day for Fisher ended with a devastating accident three years ago. He was headed to his business, a short distance away from his house, to mow before leaving for an anniversary getaway with his wife the next day. Fisher was struck by a vehicle while riding the mower alongside the road. The impact launched him face-first into a telephone pole at an estimated 40 MPH, without a helmet or any protection.

By chance, an off-duty EMT with the Fayetteville Fire Department was driving by and became the first to respond. That quick-thinking action initiated a 911 call, leading to the rapid dispatch of LifeNet 8-1, a critical care helicopter team equipped with advanced training and life-sustaining medical equipment.

“The LifeNet crew stabilized me mid-flight on the way to York Trauma,” said Fisher. “I was told I flatlined, but they brought me back. They never gave up on me.”

Fisher’s injuries were extensive, including a shattered tibia, severe facial fractures, broken ribs, and a traumatic brain injury. After surviving multiple surgeries and enduring a long recovery—including physical therapy and ongoing treatment for PTSD—Fisher has made a remarkable comeback.

“This summer marks the third anniversary of his accident,” said Lynette Fisher, Jason’s mother. “We are especially grateful. He is our miracle. Jason and his family are forever grateful to the people who played a part in saving his life that night, and the power of faith.”

During the reunion, Fisher embraced not only Flight Paramedic Mike Peck but also reconnected with other members of the LifeNet 8-1 crew. The off-duty Fayetteville Fire Department EMT, Jeff Witter, also joined the reunion. For all, it was a moment of powerful closure and reflection on the fragile line between life and loss.

“As providers, we rarely get to see the long-term outcomes,” said Peck. “Moments like these remind us why we do this work. It was an honor to be part of Jason’s story.”

Though he continues to manage some physical ailments, Fisher is back to walking and working full-time. Fisher remains deeply grateful to the emergency responders and medical professionals who gave him a second chance.

“I believe I was brought back for a reason,” he said. “From Jeff, who initially stopped, to Fayetteville Fire Department Brady Bumbaugh and Danny Thomas, who responded after the 911 call, to the LifeNet critical care team and hospital surgeons, I’m here because of them. I’m thankful every day.”