Florida Hospital Awards $6K to Honor Fallen Firefighter

Nine students in Florida are getting help pursuing careers in healthcare and firefighting, thanks to a scholarship program that honors a fallen hero who gave his life helping others.

AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach awarded $6,000 in scholarships to local students through the Ethan Wilson Memorial Scholarship program. The awards honor Ethan Wilson, a firefighter and paramedic with the Ormond Beach Fire Department who died in 2023 after a surfing accident.

Wilson's story didn't end with tragedy. After being treated at AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach, he donated his organs, continuing his life of service even in death.

Now in its fourth year, the scholarship program has become a powerful way to keep Wilson's memory alive. This year's recipients include eight high school students and one aspiring firefighter, each pursuing careers dedicated to helping others.

"Ethan's name still means something here," said Nick Nates, captain of the Ormond Beach Fire Department. "Seeing these young men and women pursue careers dedicated to helping others is a reminder that Ethan's legacy continues to make an impact in our community."

The scholarships ranged from $500 to $1,000, supporting students from five local schools. Recipients demonstrated not just academic excellence but a real commitment to service and leadership.

Dr. Jose Rosado, chief medical officer at AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach, said the ceremony brought together future caregivers and first responders already thinking about how they'll serve others. He hopes some will return to AdventHealth as colleagues after completing their education.

The Ripple Effect

As a not-for-profit organization, AdventHealth invests these scholarships directly back into the community. Each dollar supports the next generation of nurses, physicians, paramedics, and firefighters who will one day care for their neighbors.

For Ashley Wilson, Ethan's wife, the annual ceremony proves her husband's impact continues growing. "He lived to help people," she said. "Seeing students carry that forward makes his legacy feel close and alive."

The program shows how one person's dedication to service can inspire countless others to follow the same path.