Jean Corcoran has managed Type 1 diabetes with medication and a healthy, active lifestyle for over 40 years. But when her insulin pump malfunctioned, the event could have claimed her life.
A Frightening Incident
On the evening of June 16, 2017, long-time Vail resident Paul Corcoran, D.D.S. was exercising at the gym while his wife, Jean, caught up on her work at their dental office in the village. Paul planned to return later to pick up Jean and head home together.
In a fortunate twist of fate, Paul returned an hour earlier than expected. He walked into the office and found Jean slumped over her desk, completely unconscious. With assistance from a friend, Paul carried Jean to the car and rushed her to Vail Health’s Emergency Department.
Rapid Emergency Response
The emergency team, led by Dr. Gordon Hardenbergh, took quick action to stabilize Jean. Though she was disoriented when she came to, Jean clearly recalls the deep gratitude she felt for Dr. Hardenbergh and the Vail Health team who helped save her life.
“It was a horrendous night for Paul and one I would not have survived if it were not for the emergency team at Vail Health,” said Jean. “Their teamwork was incredible… absolutely flawless, professional and efficient. We are so blessed that they dedicate their lives to saving ours.”
When it comes to life-threatening, emergency situations like Jean’s, there is simply no room for error or delay. That is why we have begun planning for the construction of an all-new East Wing at Vail Health that will include crucial life-saving features like a state-of-the-art Emergency Department and Trauma Center and on-site helipad for rapid emergency response.
A Beacon of Hope
The all-new Emergency Department at Vail Health Hospital will be a beacon of hope and healing for our community, offering many benefits to residents and visitors alike.
Your investment in Vail Health ensures we will continue to operate as a non-profit, independent community hospital, so we can remain most flexible and responsive to the ever-changing needs of those we serve.
I would not have survived if it were not for the emergency team at Vail Health. Their teamwork was incredible – absolutely flawless, professional and efficient. We are so blessed that they dedicate their lives to saving ours.
Jean Corcoran