posted November 17, 2025

Patient, Family Thank Flight Crew

HARRIS, NY – November 17, 2025 – In a season of being grateful, former patient George Krause, accompanied by his family, reunited with LifeNet of New York’s 7-5 air medical team last Thursday at their base in Harris. Krause and his family expressed appreciation for the exceptional care he received from the entire team, including Lead Pilot Chris Prater, Flight Paramedic Ryon Anderson, and Flight Nurse William Terry.

Seventeen-year-old Krause, a standout pole vaulter, suffered a life-threatening accident during the New York state track and field competition at Middletown High School in June. On his third jump of the day, he sprinted down the runway and planted his pole. The pole suddenly snapped in four pieces, hitting him in the head and leaving him unconscious on the field.

“Without a doubt, that day was probably one of the worst days of my life,” said Krause’s mother, Christa Pike-Krause. “George didn’t know where he was, what year, or who the president was. He was clearly hurt.”

After regaining consciousness but still disoriented, Krause was rushed by ambulance to Garnett Health Medical Center in Middletown. Following medical evaluation, Krause was airlifted by LifeNet of New York 7-5 to Albany Medical Center for specialized care after Garnett Health doctors discovered he had symptoms of a traumatic brain injury – fracturing his skull in four places and suffering two subdural hematomas.

“We’re a very close family, and the LifeNet team made sure we were all together and reassured us every step of the way,” said Pike-Krause. “The crew was so kind to a mom who was in shock. Their compassion and professionalism made an unbearable situation manageable. They treated us like family, not just patients.”

Krause spent several days at Albany Medical Center under close observation. Miraculously, the bleeding and swelling in his brain subsided on its own, and surgery was not required. Doctors initially cautioned that it could take a year before Krause could return to athletics. However, in a testament to his determination and healing, Krause was cleared to pole vault again just months after the accident. Today, Krause has returned not only to pole vaulting but also to competing in cross country and is looking forward to another go at a state track and field competition someday soon.

“With Thanksgiving just around the corner and a time to be grateful, our team is especially grateful to see that George is doing so well,” said Anderson. “Reconnecting with George and his family in such positive circumstances is a true gift. Moments like these remind us why we do what we do. These reunions are a celebration of recovery, resilience, and the bonds formed through care.”

While he doesn’t remember the helicopter ride or much of the accident itself, his story is one of resilience and gratitude.

“Reuniting with the LifeNet of New York flight crew meant so much to me and my family. Even though I don’t remember much about that day, talking to my mom afterwards, I know the flight team had a huge impact on helping not only me, but my mom,” said Krause. “Seeing the people who helped me get the care I needed and being able to thank them in person was really special. Their care and support made all the difference during one of the toughest times in my life, and I’ll always be grateful for everything they did.”

The LifeNet of New York team is certified and has state-of-the-art specialty care training that provides the same level of care one would receive in the hospital during air medical transport from the scene or for interfacility transports, like the care Krause received from hospital to hospital. The team is equipped with industry-leading medical devices and advanced technologies, enabling them to perform advanced airway interventions, cardiac and blood flow monitoring, medication administration, and other surgical procedures in flight. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS) — the highest standards in safety, clinical practice, quality assurance, and training in the industry.

LifeNet of New York remains focused on accessibility. The program in-network with most major insurance providers, and its dedicated patient advocacy team works directly with patients and families to ensure that financial concerns never stand in the way of receiving care. No prepaid membership is ever required.

“Like any mom, I’ll never forget that day,” said Pike. “But thanks to the incredible care he received — from the first responders and hospital staff to the flight crew — my son is alive, healthy, and back to doing what he loves. We couldn’t be more grateful.”

Pictures of George’s reunion with LifeNet of New York can be viewed here.