Transporting Our Tiniest Patients: Golisano Unveils Two Pediatric Ambulances
Golisano Children’s Hospital celebrated the arrival of two new dedicated pediatric ambulances with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, September 29; neonates and critically ill children from throughout the region will soon be transported to Rochester in emergency vehicles designed just for their needs.
“We have the best doctors, nurses and staff that you can ask for to look after your kid,” said Chair of Pediatrics Patrick Brophy, M.D. “Now we have some tools that are really going to help us provide better care across the region.”
The state-of-the-art ambulances will allow staff to transfer newborns and children from other facilities faster and with high-tech equipment geared for the smallest patients.
“Our team is often called upon to transport critically ill children from throughout the region to our hospital,” Brophy said. “But ambulances aren’t necessarily set up for children and don’t always have the equipment that our team requires, especially the blended oxygen that our neonates need.”
“Having our own ambulance will significantly improve the care we are able to provide to these children and their families.”
GCH welcomed faculty, staff, donors, former patients and their families to the ribbon cutting ceremony, where the vehicles served as a colorful backdrop. Adorned with images of Sandy Strong and friends, they’re here thanks to the generosity of GCH’s many real-life friends and donors.
Proceeds from the 2019 GCH Gala fund-in-need were used to purchase and outfit the ambulances. The Honorary Chairs, Mark and Maureen Davitt, donated funds to purchase one vehicle while encouraging others to go toward a second vehicle. More than $1.3 million was raised during that event.
The Davitts previously donated $2 million in 2018 to support the new hospital building. Their names are inscribed on the driver doors of both vehicles – one designed for neonatal critical care; the other, for pediatric critical care. In addition to the child-friendly exterior and specially equipped interior, there’s room for a parent to ride upfront on the trip to Golisano Children’s Hospital.
“This wouldn’t be possible without the major support of our community that has been ongoing since day one,” Brophy said. “A huge, heartfelt thank you to Maureen and Mark Davitt for their incredible generosity and contribution.”
GCH extends their thanks to all of the community members who contributed to the 2019 Gala, including Don & Leslie Tomeny, Marty & Darcy Mucci, the Fairport Music Festival, LeChase Construction, Abby & Doug Bennett, the Pluta Family Foundation, Alice & Mike Smith, Sue & Ted Spall, Courtney & Scott Marshall, and Tops Friendly Markets.
Final preparations are underway for the ambulances, with specially trained EMT crews, to roll into service.
Author
