WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. – Three Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids Hospital team members have been honored by State Senator Patrick Testin and State Representative Scott Krug for their exceptional actions during a motorcycle crash that occurred just outside the hospital’s Emergency Department on April 5, 2026.
Registered Nurse Cassie Tellekson, Patient Care Technician Ashlyn Overturf, and Security Officer Tucker Moderson received official legislative citations recognizing their rapid response, professionalism, and collaboration with first responders during the critical incident. The awards were presented during a visit to the hospital, where legislators commended the team for their decisive actions and commitment to protecting life.
“I would like to commend the staff at Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids Hospital for going above and beyond their typical duties to help save the lives of two individuals who were involved in a traffic accident right outside the facility,” Senator Patrick Testin said. “I am proud to represent a community where people do not think twice about stepping up to care for those who are in need.”
The citations highlight the team’s quick identification of a second patient at the crash scene, coordination with dispatch, stabilization efforts, and support in preparing a landing zone for an incoming medical helicopter. Legislators noted that the team’s actions demonstrated exceptional readiness and reinforced the strength of the region’s emergency care network.
“It’s amazing to see the dedication of the team at Aspirus on a daily basis and especially in extreme circumstances,” Representative Scott Krug said. “We are truly blessed to have people like Cassie and Ashlyn serving our community.”
Tellekson and Overturf also received Aspirus Health Life Saver Awards. This award recognizes an employee who prevented significant harm of moderate or higher to a patient.
Tellekson said she was grateful for the recognition and proud of how the team responded. “We acted quickly because we knew the situation demanded it,” Tellekson said. “We train for moments like this, and I’m proud of how our team worked together to support our community. This citation is an honor, and it means a lot to all of us.”
Overturf said the award underscores the importance of preparation and teamwork. “Every second matters in emergency medicine,” Overturf said. “Our training and trust in one another guided every step we took. It’s humbling to be recognized for doing what we’re here to do — take care of people.”
“I would like to highlight the heartwarming concern demonstrated by the multiple passersby that immediately stopped to offer assistance, and the extraordinary teamwork in the face of chaos that was demonstrated between Wisconsin Rapids Fire Department and Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids staff,” Moderson said. “Two different teams unified in their mission of protecting and preserving life upon a moment’s notice.”
Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids leadership thanked Senator Testin and Representative Krug for recognizing the team’s efforts, noting that the citations reflect the hospital’s commitment to patient-centered care, rapid response, and strong community partnerships.
For more information about the Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids Emergency Department, visit aspirus.org/wi/wisconsin-rapids/410-dewey-street/hospital.