Although sky strokes are not common, they do occur. The only way to survive when this happens is to get medical help immediately. Approximately one million brain cells perish per minute after a stroke, according to medical professionals. Because of this, the Barrow Neurological Institute emphasized the crucial need of their mobile stroke unit.
“It’s just a miracle,” remarked Richard Flores. While in the air, Flores suffered a stroke, but she is thankful to be alive. He explained that his parents had died from strokes. According to the 63-year-old, he had no idea he would end up following in his father’s footsteps. His father passed away from a stroke while flying around 30 years ago.
According to Flores, “it was just kind of spooky a little,” and now she is experiencing the same thing as him while on the plane. By August, Flores had returned to Dallas after a family vacation in Los Angeles when the incident occurred.
According to Rose, his wife, their flight landed in Phoenix around one hour after Flores began experiencing symptoms due to a diversion. He only stated that his vision was impaired. Also, Rose mentioned that around that time, he started slurring his speech. Flores fainted shortly thereafter. They were accompanied by their son-in-law, Steven, for the flight. He works in the emergency room, treating patients. Upon learning of Flores’ dire situation, he informed the aircraft crew and assisted in arranging for his treatment while in Phoenix. In this context, the expertise of Dr. Daniel Gonzalez, a vascular neurologist, becomes relevant.
Dr. Gonzalez recounted how the mobile stroke unit rescued Richard from a neurological disaster. Only Barrow Neurological Institute has a mobile stroke unit among Valley hospitals. Responding to medical emergencies involving strokes, it is sent out alongside the Phoenix Fire Department. “Our average time to do an examination, a CT scan, and deliver medication is 15 minutes,” said Dr. Gonzalez. He said typically, all of that takes up to two hours if a patient is taken to a hospital via ambulance.
In Flores’ case, the medical team was waiting on the tarmac at Sky Harbor. “I think this case will define my career,” Dr. Gonzalez stated. They now share a special bond. They are all Texans.
“We love you Dr. Gonzalez, and Merry Christmas,” said Flores. This Christmas is extra special for Flores, who credits his team at Barrow with saving his life. “I’m so grateful for them and I’m able to spend another holiday here with my family,” said Flores.
After that emergency landing, Flores spent five days in the hospital in Phoenix, and he learned he had a hole in his heart during that time.
A surgeon closed the hole, and he was able to fly home to Dallas safely afterward. Dr. Gonzalez said Flores has made a full recovery and is able to fly without any concerns in the future.
The family’s main goal in sharing their story is to encourage others to learn the signs and symptoms of strokes so anyone can step in to help quickly if they notice facial drooping, arm weakness, or slurred speech in someone because time is of the essence in these cases.
