Trauma Center 100th Anniversary

A hundred years ago, the trauma service was started at Louisville city hospital. And as a part of an academic health center, University hospital is built on our mission of serving the community, as well as developing new ways to care for people, conducting research, and training the next generation of caregivers. And I think there is no place in our organization where all of that happens in a way that works so well as in our trauma center. I’m proud to be here, for the celebration representing thousands of other patients who have been treated by the University of Louisville trauma center. Nobody wants to be, or ever expects to be, a trauma patient. But what I’ve learned is that trauma does not discriminate. It can happen to anyone. That’s what makes the trauma center so valuable to people like myself and other survivors in attendance. We never know when we’ll need their expert care, but they’re always here, and they’re always prepared. I was a patient here after being hit as a pedestrian by a car in 2009. A hit and run victim, I was essentially left to die, and would’ve likely died if I wasn’t brought here to the University of Louisville trauma center. The trauma service at the University of Louisville is the safety net for every family. Nobody plans to be hurt in an accident. Nobody plans to get into a dispute and get shot or whatever. But this is the place that they all know they'll come and get care regardless of anything. First rate care, first rate nursing, and some pretty good doctors. The trauma center at the University of Louisville Hospital has provided outstanding care for injured patients for a hundred years. And it’s important that you know that the trauma center is open 24/7, 365 days a year. We never go on diversion; we never deny a patient access to care, regardless of their ability to pay, or any other factors. We take care of everybody who is hurt and needs our help, and we are proud and happy to do it, every day of the year.