Wendy’s Story
My name is Wendy Hendrickson and I am the founder of Wendy's Wish 911. This is my story on my journey with ALS.
Emergency Critical Care
Our goal is to provide clear and accurate guidance to first responders about emergency care for people living with ALS. For example, while the proper use of supplemental oxygen is important in certain emergency situations, unnecessary oxygen supplementation in someone with diaphragm muscle weakness can decrease the “drive to breathe” and raise CO2 levels – leading to decreased consciousness and even death. Other considerations include medications or body positions that may worsen breathing function in ALS, communication barriers, mobility and transfer issues, and making sure the necessary support equipment is brought on an ambulance. The importance of the role of caregivers and families of ALS Warriors, they are your greatest asset in emergency situations.
EMS
EMS training and new policies and protocols are CRITICAL in emergency situations with individuals living with ALS or other neurological conditions.
Fire
Fire departments can establish and implement new policies and protocols in emergency situations involving individuals living with ALS or other neurological conditions.
About Wendy’s Wish 911
Wendy's Wish 911 raises awareness and shines a light on the importance of educating 911 dispatchers, EMS, police and fire departments and hospital emergency departments by updating policies and protocols currently in place to reflect the real time needs and challenges faced by individuals living with ALS or other neurological conditions.
911 Dispatchers
911 Dispatchers are the first call made in emergency situations and crucial in this process of saving our lives. We seek to implement new policies and protocols in emergency situations with individuals living with ALS or other neurological conditions.
Police
Upper Gwynedd Deputy Chief Ted Caiola promotes Wendy's Wish 911 and details the committment of the UGPD to participate in the critical initiatives to help those living with ALS and other neurological conditions. He urges other first responders to join UGPD in participating with this program.