A Near-Fatal Accident

Aaliyah Murray experienced a life-altering event when her car crashed into a tree at night, resulting in multiple severe injuries. She stated, “I broke a lot, head to toe. I ended up breaking both of my feet, both of my knees, both my femurs, my right leg, my pelvis. Evidently, I lost a lot of blood.”

Life-Saving Blood Transfusion

In a critical moment, paramedics from the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) Air Rescue 85 administered whole blood during her transport to the hospital. Aaliyah remarked, “Without that, I would have had no chance of survival.” This innovative initiative marks BSO as the first agency in Florida to administer blood directly to trauma victims in need.

Inspiration Behind the Program

Dr. James Roach, the medical director for BSO and chief of emergency medicine at Broward Health, conceptualized this life-saving program following a personal tragedy involving a family member who succumbed to injuries from a bus accident. “We think of all of this. We think about how we can impact our community so we could save these people and they could have a chance,” he explained.

The Impact on Trauma Patients

Thanks to the blood program, critical patients like Aaliyah can receive vital care en route to medical facilities, enhancing their chance of survival. Reflecting on her experience, Aaliyah noted, “I’m fortunate because I know the BSO whole blood program was new right at the time of my accident. Had my accident been any sooner, I might not have made it.”

Tragic Loss and Gratitude

Tragically, Aaliyah learned that Captain Terryson Jackson, one of the paramedics who saved her life, died in a helicopter crash while responding to another emergency. This news left her stunned. Aaliyah expressed her sorrow, stating, “I really hate that I can never thank him in person.”

A Reunion of Gratitude

Recently, Aaliyah had the opportunity to thank Mike Chaguaceda, another paramedic involved in her rescue. In an emotional moment, she said, “Thank you for saving my life.” Mike fondly recalled the details of that night, emphasizing the significance of the whole blood provided during her transport.

Continuing the Mission

BSO’s blood program utilizes donations from OneBlood, maintaining the blood supply in optimal conditions for immediate use during emergencies. Paramedics like Lt. Stephen Krivjanik are trained to administer blood, a practice that contributes significantly to patient stabilization during transport.

Future Endeavors

Aaliyah, who is continuing her recovery, is committed to advocating for the blood program to other agencies, stating, “Now I got knowledge. Now I have knowledge. So let me get through this and then I have work to do!” Her hope is that such life-saving measures will become standardized across South Florida.

How You Can Help

Aaliyah has set up a recovery fund on GoFundMe while encouraging others to contribute to the lifesaving efforts of BSO by donating blood.

For additional details or to make a donation, please contact BSO at:

• 305-627-CLUE
• 954-921-CLUE
• Email: