In the frantic seconds after a traumatic injury, every moment counts. For victims of severe blood loss, the difference between life and death can hinge on immediate access to life-saving blood transfusions. But in rural communities like Henry County, access to this critical resource can be limited, leaving patients vulnerable in their most desperate hours.

This is where donors to the Choose Henry Flex Fund are playing a vital role in bringing the revolutionary Red Initiative to Henry County.

Inspired by a similar program in New Orleans, Assistant Chief Justin Harrison and Captain Scott Rifner of the New Castle-Henry County EMS saw an opportunity to dramatically improve their ability to save lives.

The Red Initiative allows paramedics to carry and administer blood products directly on the scene. This is a game-changer in rural areas, where transporting patients to distant hospitals can be a matter of life and death. But implementing such a program comes with hefty upfront costs, putting it beyond reach for many smaller EMS agencies.

Recognizing the potential impact of the Red Initiative, the Grants Committee of the Foundation awarded a grant to the EMS, providing the essential funding to help purchase the field blood transfusion kit.

“This would have been a no-go without the Foundation,” says Harrison. “Going forward would be rough to impossible without the help of the funds.”

 

The impact of this program is clear and undeniable. Studies have shown that receiving blood within the first 36 minutes of a traumatic injury can increase the survival rate by a staggering 90%. With the Red Initiative, New Castle-Henry County EMS crews can now deliver that lifeline directly to patients in their moments of greatest need.

“People will survive traumatic injuries that otherwise would not have,” says Rifner. “The sooner someone gets blood, the better the outcome.”

A system like this needs regular maintenance to continue offering life-saving services. This includes the consistent purchasing of blood bags. Fortunately for the EMS, there are two designated funds at the Foundation ready to help with a yearly payout. Learn more about these funds established by the estates of two generous women on pages 6-7.

The story of the Henry County EMS and the Red Initiative is evidence of the power of community and generosity. It’s a story of ordinary people coming together to make an extraordinary difference. And it’s a story that wouldn’t be possible without donors to the Choose Henry Flex Fund.

When you give to Choose Henry, remember: your contribution could be the lifeline that sends a victim of trauma home to their loved ones.

Check out this short video about the Choose Henry Flex Fund and how your donation can be matched.