“My son has ADHD, anxiety, PTSD and other emotional disorders. I have had to call 911 to get help for him many times. It’s hard to explain his diagnoses, behaviors, and needs quickly. The time it takes to explain it all has sometimes led to harmful delays and misunderstandings. HERO Kids Registry would help first responders and Emergency Departments be ready to meet my son’s particular needs. They would know ahead of time that he has complex mental health challenges. They would be aware that he freezes up when he’s anxious, that he’s afraid of needles, and that he has adverse drug reactions which can exacerbate the situation. HERO Kids Registry would increase my confidence in the care my son gets in an emergency.”  – Oregon Parent (name withheld for privacy)

"For emergency responders, especially transporting ambulance providers, having access to patient history is vital to providing timely, quality, and compassionate patient-centered care. It helps providers make informed decisions in critical moments. HERO Kids has the potential to improve the health and safety of children with medical conditions."  -  Matt Philbrick, Paramedic and former Oregon Emergency Medical Services for Children Advisory Committee Chair

As someone who lives with osteogenesis imperfecta and having had over 100 broken bones and countless surgeries I’m no stranger with having to make calls to emergency services. The HERO registry allows EMS to be prepared in a timely manner when they receive a call from me. It’s a time saver and a life saver.     – Trinity R.