First Responders Honored at USA Health Gala

---

Posted on October 12, 2018

Casandra Andrews

---

---

Sixty local first responders, including health care professionals, law enforcement, firefighters, emergency operators and others, received medals and were recognized Thursday during the gala “A Night Honoring Heroes” for their life-saving efforts.

More than 700 people attended the event at the Mobile Convention Center that highlighted the courage and dedication of those who help patients survive after a traumatic injury. “A Night Honoring Heroes” raises funds for the Fanny Meisler Trauma Center, the region's only Level 1 Trauma Center, at University Hospital, formerly USA Medical Center.

During the evening, videos were shown featuring two area patients who suffered traumatic injuries, Jordan Holifield and Robert Jones, and those who cared for them.

USA Health University Hospital 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.

“This evening allows us to acknowledge the mission and purpose of the first responders, nurses, doctors and health care professionals who are central to the trauma service at University Hospital,” USA Foundation President John McMillan said. “We are thankful for their commitment, selfless service and compassion in providing life-giving care.”

Austal USA President Craig Perciavalle and his wife, Dee Dee McCarron-Perciavalle, served as community co-chairs. McCarron-Perciavalle had a personal experience with the treatment at University Hospital. Her son, A.J. McCarron, was treated at the hospital after a serious personal watercraft accident in his childhood.

“As a mother, having a child receive life-saving care at the Medical Center, following a traumatic accident, is something for which I am forever grateful,” McCarron-Perciavalle said.

University Hospital 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 and chemical companies or attract new ones.

“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,” said USA Vice President of Medical Affairs and Dean of the College of Medicine Dr. John Marymont. “This event was created to honor them as the heroes they truly are.”

---