DAYTON, Ohio (WKEF) – The Miami Valley Hospital Foundation has launched the ‘Care in the Air’ campaign to raise funds for a new helicopter. This new aircraft will help save more lives in the community.
Amanda McClure, vice president of the emergency and trauma institute and Careflight at Premier Health, shared that the current helicopter is 34 years old and not as reliable as it should be. The new helicopter will be a modern Leonardo AW 169, packed with advanced technology.
The Careflight team is eager about the new features that will enhance their ability to care for patients. “We can now transport two patients simultaneously and handle those needing intensive lifesaving treatments,” McClure explained. For instance, systems like ECMO, which is crucial for cardiovascular support, often require extra equipment that the new helicopter can accommodate.
In just 2024, Careflight transported around 5,100 patients, and Premier Health aims to continue these life-saving missions.
To fund this project, all four foundations within Premier Health are working together to gather $13.5 million. They are reaching out to the community for support, stressing that every contribution counts. “Whether it’s $10 or $10,000, every dollar helps us reach our goal,” said Jenny Lewis, system vice president of philanthropy at Premier Health. She added that the community should consider how essential this aircraft will be in urgent situations.
The new helicopter is set to take to the skies by 2026, offering hope and assistance to many in need throughout the Miami Valley.
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Source linkCare in the Air,Premier Health,Miami Valley Hospital Foundation,Leonardo AW 169,Aircraft,Careflight,Fundraising,ECMO
