This vehicle saves lives.

The MD-1 vehicles run on gasoline, but they’re fueled by something harder to define. Passion, maybe. No, purpose fits better because programs like it are unusual to see in a community this size, and rare in the midwest. Dr. Matt Smetana is one of the people behind the wheel. Spend thirty seconds with him and you’ll feel it. Commitment to this community runs in his veins. We started by talking about one of his better-known cases. But here’s the thing: every single call carries its own gravity. Because for the person he’s showing up for, that moment isn’t routine. It’s the worst day of their life. So what is MD-1? Picture an emergency room that shows up before the hospital ever does. That’s basically what happens when a physician drives MD-1. Not just gear, but the also the knowledge. Paramedics and first responders are already some of the best people in this city, but when MD-1 rolls up, Matt’s there to back them up, to teach, to assist, to steady the chaos. He’s not chasing glory. He’s guiding decisions. The ones that mean the difference between a story ending and one continuing.

MD-1 is a service provided to this community by Mercyhealth Rockford Region .

Produced by Pablo Korona

Sponsored by Made For Rockford