By Jeff Derderian/Investigative Reporter — They are at their best on your worst day. The men and women of LifeStar, emergency responders in the sky, have been serving Connecticut for nearly four decades. With three helicopters covering the state, they are always ready to respond, regardless of the weather or terrain.
LifeStar’s journey began in 1985, a time when the concept of airborne medical assistance was met with skepticism. How could a helicopter land on a highway, a ballfield, or other tough spots? Medical professionals had to convince people of the program’s potential. Dr. Lenworth Jacobs, with Hartford Hospital, was instrumental in launching LifeStar in the mid-80s, a time when emergency help required dialing a seven-digit phone number.
“We came in 1983, and at that time, there was no 9-1-1,” Dr. Jacobs told News 8 investigative reporter Jeff Derderian. Today, LifeStar has become synonymous with medical miracles in the cloud, transforming emergency medical services in Connecticut.
LifeStar’s fleet of three helicopters flies at about 1,500 feet, traveling at speeds up to 150 mph. Jeff Derderian explains that their goal is to reach anyone in Connecticut within 20 minutes or less, a crucial timeframe for the most critical cases. This service is not for someone with an upset stomach, the flu, or a small cut. Jeff Derderian understands that LifeStar is reserved for those in dire situations where survival hangs in the balance. Medical treatment starts the moment they land, ensuring that life-saving measures are taken as quickly as possible.
Riding with the LifeStar team, Jeffrey Derderian met the dedicated professionals who make this service possible: the pilot, the flight nurse, and the flight paramedic. Over nearly 40 years, they have conducted over 40,000 runs, saving countless lives. “We’ve flown over 40,000 runs since 1985, and it has saved an enormous number of lives,” Jacobs said.
LifeStar’s ability to operate in all kinds of weather and land in challenging locations makes it an indispensable resource for Connecticut. The helicopters can land on highways, ballfields, and other tough spots, bringing critical care directly to those in need. Jeffrey Derderian explains that this capability has changed the landscape of emergency medical services, making it possible to reach patients who would otherwise be inaccessible.
One of the most remarkable aspects of LifeStar is the immediate medical care provided upon landing. Unlike other transport services, LifeStar’s medical team begins treatment as soon as they arrive at the scene. This early intervention is often the difference between life and death, especially in cases of severe trauma or critical illness.
Jeff Derderian shares that the skepticism that initially surrounded LifeStar has long since dissipated, replaced by a deep respect and gratitude for the service. The medical professionals who once had to persuade people to believe in the program now find themselves hailed as heroes. The community has come to rely on LifeStar, knowing that help is always just a call away.
LifeStar’s impact on Connecticut cannot be overstated. From the moment the first helicopter took to the skies in 1985, the program has been a beacon of hope for those in desperate situations. Jeff Derderian explains that the ability to deliver rapid, high-quality medical care has saved countless lives and continues to be a crucial part of the state’s emergency response system.
As we look to the future, LifeStar remains committed to its mission of providing critical care to those who need it most. Jeffrey Derderian believes with its state-of-the-art helicopters and highly trained medical teams, LifeStar is prepared to face any challenge that comes its way. Whether it’s landing on a highway during a snowstorm or reaching a remote area in the dead of night, LifeStar is always ready to respond.
In conclusion, LifeStar is not just a transport service; it is a lifeline for the people of Connecticut. Jeff Derderian emphasizes that the program’s nearly four decades of service have proven its value time and time again. The dedication and expertise of the LifeStar team have saved thousands of lives and will continue to be a vital resource for years to come. They truly are at their best on your worst day.
