In late June 2024, Leo and his family were travelling from Whitby to Sault Ste. Marie when an unexpected medical emergency arose. Leo awoke with a swollen neck and had difficulty breathing. Concerned for his health, his family brought him to the emergency department in Sault Ste. Marie, where medical staff conducted X-rays and a CT scan.

Following the assessment, doctors determined that Leo needed to be seen by an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, for a possible emergency surgery. Given the situation's urgency, a decision was made to transport Leo by air to the London Children’s Hospital for specialized care.

Ornge’s air ambulance team were dispatched to facilitate Leo’s transport. Throughout the flight, the paramedics provided expert medical attention while also ensuring both Leo and his mom, Aleksandra, felt supported and reassured.

They also helped me stay calm and ease my anxiety. – Aleksandra

The paramedics gifted him a Flyin’ Lion plush, which he still treasures as a reminder of his bravery during the experience.

They gave him a little lion that he still sleeps with and says ‘this is when I was brave.’ – Aleksandra

Upon arriving in London, Ornge paramedics accompanied Leo and Aleksandra to the hospital to ensure a seamless transition of care. Fortunately, after further evaluation and treatment, Leo did not require surgery. After three days of monitoring and recovery, he was discharged and able to return home with his family.

At Ornge, we are committed to providing timely, high-quality medical transport for critically ill and injured patients. Whether by air or ground, our team is dedicated to ensuring patients receive the care they need when they need it most.

We are grateful to Leo’s family for sharing their story and wish him continued health and happiness.

A heartfelt thank you to paramedics Marcie and Patrick, pilots Joel and Nishant, and the Operations Control Centre (OCC) team for their exceptional coordination and dedication to this mission.
 
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• Patients and Families