HCA Florida Brandon Hospital recognized a Hillsborough County Fire Rescue crew, Rescue 7/A, with the hospital’s prestigious LifeSaver’s Award during a special EMS Week presentation on Friday, May 22.
The award honors the crew’s extraordinary actions in responding to a medical emergency involving then-Bloomingdale High School sophomore Caddie Schelle, whose life was saved thanks in part to the team’s quick thinking and decisive care.
On August 12, Caddie collapsed during golf practice moments after complaining of the “worst headache” of her life. Initially believed to be dehydration by bystanders at the scene, the situation quickly escalated. Recognizing signs of a potentially catastrophic neurological emergency, the Rescue 7/A crew made the rare decision to call a pediatric stroke alert while in route to the emergency room at Brandon Hospital.
That critical decision gave the hospital’s Comprehensive Stroke Center team valuable time to prepare for Caddie’s arrival with all necessary specialists and resources ready.
Doctors later determined Caddie had suffered a ruptured arteriovenous malformation (AVM), causing a massive brain bleed. She was stabilized at Brandon Hospital before being airlifted for pediatric emergency surgery.
“Calling a stroke alert for a child is extremely uncommon, but this crew trusted their instincts and acted quickly,” said Nealy Kinnison, VP of emergency services at Brandon Hospital. “Their rapid assessment and communication helped mobilize lifesaving stroke care before Caddie even arrived at the hospital.”
In addition to providing emergency medical care, Caddie’s mother, Kilene Schelle, credits the crew for offering calm, strength and reassurance during one of the most terrifying moments of her life.
“Not only were they caring for Caddie, they were caring for me too,” said Kilene Schelle. “Their calmness and confidence gave me hope in the scariest moments imaginable.”
Despite a grim prognosis and multiple surgeries in the weeks that followed, Caddie defied expectations. Today, her recovery continues with ongoing therapy and follow-up care, and her story has inspired widespread support throughout the community.
Leadership from Brandon Hospital and Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, along with the Schelle family, will speak during the award presentation.