May 18, 2023 – In observance of National Trauma Survivor Day, Broward Health hosted a celebration to honor trauma patients, the emergency medical team, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) partners. Broward Health’s Level I and Level II nationally designated trauma centers at Broward Health Medical Center and Broward Health North serve both pediatric and adult patients.
“It takes great expertise to provide the level of care that our trauma team offers to our most critical patients,” said Ivan Puente, M.D., medical director of trauma and critical care services at Broward Health. “We see our trauma survivors at their worst, and it means the world to us to see them recover.”
During the tribute, trauma survivor Patrick Alston shared his story and appreciation for the doctors, nurses, therapists, and EMS who helped him recover from his life-threatening injuries after he was hit by a driver while trying to cross a street. Alston, a former trauma technical assistant in interventional radiology at Broward Health Medical Center, was transported to the same hospital where he once worked and was saved by his former coworkers’ quick response and expertise.
Alston had both of his legs amputated. While the recovery was tough, he turned his pain into purpose. He now visits the hospital frequently to provide support to other patients who are going through traumatic experiences.
“When I go back to Broward Health Medical Center, it’s like going back home,” Alston said. “I return to encourage other patients to overcome their trauma experience.”
Trauma is the fourth-leading cause of death for all ages in the United States, according to the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma. Broward Health prides itself on caring for more than 7 thousand patients annually.
To learn more about Broward Health’s emergency and trauma services, visit BrowardHealth.org/Emergency.
About Broward Health
Broward Health is a nationally recognized health system in South Florida. As one of the 10 largest public healthcare systems in the U.S., Broward Health boasts two trauma centers and virtually every health specialty, offering compassionate, personalized care across its four hospitals and more than 50 health centers and physician practices. As a leader in advanced healthcare for 85 years, Broward Health has a robust graduate education program and international services. For more information, visit BrowardHealth.org
