Thunderbirds Donate $375,000 to Barrow Neurological Institute for Mobile Stroke Unit

The Thunderbirds were recently on hand at the Barrow Neurological Institute for the unveiling of the new Barrow Emergency Stroke Treatment Unit, a state-of-the-art mobile emergency room that focuses on treating stroke victims and is the first of its kind in the United States (and only one of 10 in the nation) to operate around the clock in a city with a population greater than 1 million.

The Mobile Stroke Unit will be deployed along with Phoenix Fire through the 911 system in instances where there is a possible stroke diagnosis. The unit is equipped with the most advanced diagnostic tools to determine what type of stroke the patient is experiencing so that faster diagnosis and treatment can be made. It also includes live telemedicine capabilities to connect with a Barrow stroke physician. A stroke-certified RN and a CT technician from Barrow will always be on board.

The cost of the mobile unit was $1-million and was funded by philanthropy, including gifts from the Thunderbirds Charities, who donated $375,000 to help fund the Mobile Stroke Unit.

“We are so grateful for the community support of the Waste Management Phoenix Open,” said Thunderbird Mike Haenel.  “Through that support and community involvement we are able to give millions of dollars back to the community.  This gift of 375,000 is really a game-changer here in Phoenix as it will save more lives and really help our community.”

The Barrow Emergency Stroke Treatment Unit, which was approved by Phoenix City Council last month, is expected to begin operating in July.