Branford Represents at Red Cross Heroes Award Celebration

April 7 was a great day for the heroes of greater New Haven but an even better day for Branford, who had three of its own recognized by the American Red Cross. Chief Jack Ahern who nominated two school nurses for awards, said of the American Red Cross 2011 Community Heroes of Great New Haven event held at the Omni Hotel in New Haven, “The room was overtaken by Branford.”

Many came out to support the two nurses, Carol Cornachini and Annie Drabinski who work at . The nurses stepped up in a time of need last December and saved the life of a woman who had collapsed. The victim had no pulse and Cornachini quickly administered CPR and called for the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) according to the event program (see PDF). Drabinski assisted and the woman was brought back to consciousness just as the BFD paramedics arrived. Ahern stated, “The quick actions, calm demeanor and professionalism displayed by these two individuals saved this person’s life.” Both women received the Medical Professional American Rod Cross Hero Award.

Also honored was ’s Pat Andriole for her Community Impact. Andriole does many things for the town of Branford including work diligently with the as well as run the Branford Counseling Center. Andriole was presented the award by Branford’s own Eunice Lasala, 2008 Humanitarian Hero Award recipient and William Kilpatrick, Executive Director of New Haven Parking Authority.

Andriole has been leading the Branford Counseling Center since it started 40 years ago, was an instrumental part of growing the center from a helpline to a licensed mental health agency, substance abuse facility and youth service bureau for Branford. Andriole has not only led the center with passion, she goes above and beyond to organize various fundraisers and community outreach. One way to see the hard work Andriole and her staff do year-round, is to stop by during the holiday season to see all the gifts the BCC for needy families.

A single parent of three, Andriole is familiar with the community need for support and strives through her services for children and families to meet the needs of Branford residents.