Cincinnati Children’s has introduced the health system’s first dedicated helicopter transport service. It helps kids with critical health needs access the nation’s leading pediatric hospital. Called Care Force One, the helicopter was unveiled March 10 at an event attended by 5-year-old Ellie Rocco, winner of the naming contest.
Cincinnati Children’s unveils first dedicated helicopter and name suggested by 5-year-old girl
Cincinnati Children’s has landed its first dedicated helicopter to provide timely access to critical care for kids from other Ohio cities or nearby states, and the aircraft has a clever name thanks to a 5-year-old from Butler County.
Ellie Rocco of Hamilton, whose dad, Joseph, specializes in aviation as a staff sergeant with the Ohio National Guard, loves learning about aircraft from him. So, when her mom, Stephanie, mentioned that Cincinnati Children’s was holding a contest to suggest a name for the helicopter, Ellie submitted one that soared above the rest: Care Force One.
The helicopter and name were revealed during a March 10 ceremony attended by Ellie and other kids who were contest finalists. Cincinnati Children’s received over 825 contest entries.
“Our new helicopter speeds up the transport of newborns and children from hospitals across Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and parts of West Virginia,” said Evaline Alessandrini, MD, chief operating officer. “Travel time can be cut in half or more, allowing specialized care to begin as soon as our team arrives.”
The helicopter – an Airbus EC145 – can fly more than 150 mph. Aboard is a Cincinnati Children’s critical care nurse, a respiratory therapist and, when needed, a physician. Air Methods owns and operates the helicopter and provides the pilot.
Ellie said the name she submitted was inspired by the plane designated to transport U.S. presidents, which is called Air Force 1. “That will be a good name,” Ellie said of her suggestion for the helicopter. “Kids will say, ‘Care Force One is coming to help me!’ ”
The recognition was extra special for Ellie’s family because she has an older brother, Joel, 12, who receives care at Cincinnati Children’s. “They saved his life,” Stephanie Rocco said. “Cincinnati Children’s is near and dear to me. It’s the most caring place ever.”
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Image Credit: Cincinnati Children’s
