Event to Honor First Responders, Medical Professionals

---

Posted on July 11, 2017

Marketing and Communications

---

Highlighting the courage and dedication of first responders and medical professionals who help patients survive after a traumatic injury, the University of South Alabama Medical Center will host “A Night Honoring Heroes,” a gala scheduled from 5:30 - 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 10, at the Mobile Convention Center.

“A Night Honoring Heroes” will include a reception, dinner and inspiring video presentations of two patients who suffered traumatic injuries and those who cared for them. University of South Alabama Foundation is the title sponsor for the inaugural event, which will benefit USA Medical Center’s Level 1 Trauma Center.

USA Medical Center holds a unique role as the region’s only Level 1 Trauma Center, the epicenter of the highest level of care when the unexpected happens. USA Medical Center is the only area hospital that has an in-house, around-the-clock trauma team, which includes specialized surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, respiratory therapists and others. Working together, they utilize the resources of all medical specialties for a patient’s benefit, greatly improving the chance of survival.

USA Foundation President John McMillan said the Foundation is honored to support “A Night Honoring Heroes.”

“We applaud the commitment and selfless work of those first responders, physicians, nurses and support staff, providing 24-7 life-saving care for the Mobile and surrounding communities,” McMillan said. “We particularly support the unique health care efforts of those involved in the trauma service of the USA Medical Center.  All of us with the USA Foundation are humbled to be a part of this event of special thanks to those who give of themselves tirelessly.”   

Ralph Hargrove, who leads Mobile-based Hargrove Engineers + Constructors, and his wife, Kimberly, are serving as community co-chairs. Through their company, the Hargroves have had personal experience with the exceptional treatment received at USA Medical Center.

“Last year, several of my teammates were in a horrific car accident in Baldwin County and were airlifted to USA Medical Center where they received outstanding, life-saving care,” Ralph Hargrove said.

USA Vice President of Medical Affairs and Dean of the College of Medicine Dr. John Marymont said, “When a life-changing trauma occurs, a team of heroes springs into action for a patient. From police, firefighters and EMS crews to health care professionals throughout the hospital, they stand ready to offer this vital service. This event will honor them as the heroes they truly are.”

USA Medical Center also serves as a key component for economic development efforts in the region. Without its Level 1 Trauma Center and Arnold Luterman Regional Burn Center, the area would not be able to support existing large manufacturing or chemical companies or attract new ones.

Additional sponsorships and event tickets are available. For more information, contact Margaret Sullivan, vice president of development and alumni relations, at msullivan@southalabama.edu or (251) 460-7616.

---