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HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | NOVEMBER 21, 2022 31 HEALTHCARE HEROES AWARDS 2022 L IFE STAR provides critical care trans- port for anyone who needs it, in their most vulnerable time. The organiza- tion brings life-saving care to those in need, or transports critically ill patients to the most appropriate clinical setting. LIFE STAR utilizes three aircraft located in Connecticut and western Massachusetts and provides the highest level of care while trans- porting more than 1,200 patients annually, saving tens of thousands of patients since the program began almost 40 years ago. What have been the team's most significant contributions to the organization? We were so proud to be the first to transport a COVID-positive patient receiving ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) therapy by helicopter. At the time, we didn't know what we were dealing with and many systems were too scared to do this. But we knew we had to help. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we developed an infection-control plan for safe transport of patients with COVID. We were able to refine these and eventually we assisted in New York early in the pandemic when a local hospital's oxygen system was overwhelmed, transporting a COVID-positive patient upstate to alleviate the strain. Despite the added complexity and stress, we were able to remain focused, continue with quality management and training and stay engaged with the community by participating in outreach and fundraising to support their health. F raser Weir has been an EMS for almost 30 years. He's spent 17 years as a paramedic and the last five years as a pediatric critical care flight paramedic on Yale Children's Hospital Critical Care Team. What has been your significant contribution to your organization in the past year? Sitting with a family, I overheard a conversa- tion about wanting to take their child to the beach one final time. They had been told it was not possible. With my team's help, I was able to organize the trip for the family. They were able to spend a few hours with her at the beach. With the help from multiple departments and Make a Wish, it was a successful day. The child passed away a few days later. Tell us about a challenge in your job that you were able to overcome. The biggest challenge is working with sick and injured children — processing the emotion to be more compassionate and dedicated to my job. Personal side: City of residence: New Fairfield Favorite way to relax: Spending time with my daughters Hobbies: Golf Favorite movie: "Lord of the Rings" Currently reading: "The Way of Kings," by Brandon Sanderson Favorite cause: Make a Wish Foundation Fun fact: I spent 25 years as a lighting techni- cian on Broadway shows and tours. Winner Category: First Responder EMPLOYER: Yale New Haven Children's Hospital TITLE: Pediatric Critical Care Flight Paramedic Winner Category: First Responder Team Leaders: Patricia Margarido, Lauri Bolton, Heather Standish Fraser Weir Hartford Hospital LIFE STAR