On January 11, 2024, Felicia Hoard, a Paratransit Operator at the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA), helped an elderly passenger in distress. The passenger had boarded the GCRTA Paratransit vehicle from the Fresenius Medical Care Center and was having trouble breathing. Felicia noticed the passenger’s discomfort and found out she was in severe pain.
Felicia assessed the situation and found that the passenger’s oxygen tank was empty. She promptly sought help from the medical center staff and contacted Paratransit Dispatch for additional support.
Felicia’s actions ensured the passenger received immediate medical attention. The passenger received timely medical help and was able to breathe on her own again. Felicia’s actions were key in helping the passenger.
Felicia Hoard was given the GCRTA Champion of Safety Award for her actions. This award is given to an employee who identifies and helps resolve a safety hazard, participates in incident investigations outside of their regular duties, or contributes to efforts to reduce collisions, incidents, and injuries.