posted September 09, 2025

Reunion Takes Place One Day After National Grateful Patient Day

SAYRE, PA – Sept. 9, 2025 – On Monday, former Guthrie Air patient David Zinck reunited at the base in Sayre to thank flight clinicians, Dave Slusser and Rich Mosier, for saving his life. The visit came just one day after National Grateful Patient Day, a time to recognize and appreciate caregivers and those in the medical profession for their dedication and the impact they have on patients’ lives.

“I had to look them in the eye and say thank you,” said Zinck. “These professionals don’t get nearly the appreciation they deserve.”

A longtime volunteer firefighter and EMS responder, Zinck had spent decades saving lives, never imagining he’d one day be the one needing urgent medical intervention. Last Fall, Zinck was critically injured in a devastating motorcycle accident linked to his alcohol addiction.

“I hit a concrete block, my helmet flew off, and I was thrown about 100 feet,” he said. “I’ve seen a lot in 27 years with the fire service. When I watched the video of my own crash, I knew without a doubt, I should’ve been dead.”

Zinck was rapidly airlifted by Guthrie Air, receiving lifesaving care en route to the trauma center. He suffered extensive injuries, including a damaged leg and fractured arm. After 12 surgeries and four and a half months bedridden, Zinck had to learn how to walk again. Despite a rod running from his hip to ankle and the use of hand controls to drive, his recovery has been extraordinary.

“When we arrived on scene, we knew David’s injuries were critical and time was not on his side,” said Slusser, Guthrie Air flight nurse. “Given the force of the impact and the extent of his injuries, it’s nothing short of remarkable that he survived. His recovery is a testament to his strength and determination, and we’re incredibly honored to have played a role in giving him that second chance.”

Today, Zinck is sober, healing, and speaking out to help others break free from addiction.

“My story isn’t just about survival, it’s about purpose,” he said. “God saved me for a purpose – to let others know that alcohol isn’t the answer. If you’re hurting, get help. And never, ever drink and get behind the wheel.”

While Zinck doesn’t remember much about the crash, he does know and credits the lifesaving work of the Guthrie crew. The Guthrie Air medical team is certified and has state-of-the-art specialty care training to deliver hospital-level care in the air, whether responding to a scene or during interfacility transports. Equipped with industry-leading equipment and medical devices, the team can administer whole blood in flight, provide advanced airway intervention, cardiac monitoring, medication administration, and other advanced surgical procedures, all of which were provided to Zinck.

“The crew that flew me was exactly where they were supposed to be, doing exactly what they were trained to do,” he said. “Because of that, I’m still here. I’m living proof of what they do every single day.”

Guthrie Air is in-network with most major insurance providers and has a patient advocacy program that works with all patients—regardless of insurance status—to ensure emergency air medical services remain accessible and affordable for everyone in the community.