McHENRY, IL, June 19, 2025 – LifeNet 3-1, an Air Medical program based in McHenry, celebrated five years as part of Air Methods on Tuesday, joining with partners, community members, and a former patient to celebrate the milestone.

Under sunny skies, visitors were able to meet the crew, tour the base’s EC 145 air ambulance helicopter, and enjoy cotton candy and other refreshments. The base, which originally launched in 1987 as a Flight for Life base, joined Air Methods in 2020 and is now one of seven air medical bases that form a comprehensive EMS ecosystem across Illinois.

“Five years ago, when we first heard we were becoming part of Air Methods, many of us understandably felt some trepidation,” said Flight Paramedic Tom Bradtke. “But from day one, the support has been unwavering. What stood out to me most was that in our very first meetings with leadership, they didn’t just tell us what would happen they asked us what Air Methods could do to support our mission.”

Among the attendees was former patient Allyson Kubik, who was transported to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital with life-threatening injuries by LifeNet 3-1 in 2021 following an ATV accident. This week, she was able to reunite with some of the crew members who helped save her life on that fateful day four years ago.

Operating 24/7/365, LifeNet services are often referred to as “flying ERs” or mobile ICUs, delivering advanced critical care at the scene and during transport. Crews are equipped with life-sustaining equipment and medications and can administer whole blood in flight—making a lifesaving difference in rural and underserved areas.

“Air Methods has also significantly raised the bar in training and education. We came from a program that already valued continuing education, but Air Methods took it to the next level,” added Bradtke. “From monthly training sessions and case study reviews to Sim-X, we’ve been given opportunities to learn from some of the best in the industry. I look forward to seeing what the future holds as we continue to grow under Air Methods leadership.”