Chandler Regional Medical Center, home to one of the Valley’s newest Level One trauma centers, will honor East Valley first responders at a unique recognition ceremony held in the hospital’s chapel. A one-of-a-kind memorial wall painted and donated by artist Darrin Wardle of Phoenix is located in the hospital’s emergency department and will be dedicated in acknowledgement of all first responders—from the police departments and fire departments to emergency medical technicians and paramedics.
With the hospital’s opening of a new Level 1 trauma center in 2013 and its subsequent tower expansion, Chandler Regional has seen a great increase in ambulance traffic with more frequent interaction between the medical staff and first responders. Since opening in 1961, Chandler Regional has been a proud member of the community with the honor of treating members of the first responder community as family. After receiving its sixth deadly case involving a first responder this past October, Chandler Regional’s emergency and trauma units sought a way to honor some of the bravest individuals the community has to offer.
“We consider first responders to be part of our family. It is our honor and privilege to provide care for them in their time of need. This Memorial Wall allows us to pay our respects and never forget the ultimate sacrifice that they made in the line of duty,” adds Janet Shepard, RN, BSN, MHA, director of emergency services at Chandler Regional.
