THA Names Friedel One of 12 Texas Health Care Heroes

The Texas Hospital Association (THA) recently named Lucas Friedel as one of its 12 Health Care Heroes for 2023. Friedel, a La Grange area native, heads up the Respiratory Therapy Department at Methodist Mansfield Medical Center.

Here’s what the THA had to say about Friedel: “He fondly refers to respiratory therapists as the ‘Batman of Health Care,’ silently swooping in to save the day, their names often unknown. Respiratory therapy, often the unsung hero, was brought into the spotlight during the pandemic, with caring for mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU as just one facet of their invaluable duties.

“Under Lucas’ steadfast guidance, the Respiratory Therapy Department, alongside the ICU Nurses, have spent the past two years without a single case of Ventilator Acquired Pneumonia, a testament to their unwavering commitment to patient care and safety. Lucas’ team attributes their success to his precision and leadership along the way.”

Crystal Brown, Vice President of Operations at Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, commended Friedel’s team.

“Lucas Friedel’s leadership and the extraordinary efforts of the Respiratory Therapy Department have resulted in tangible benefits for our patients” Brown said. “Their dedication to preventing complications like Ven-tilator Acquired Pneumonia exemplifies our commitment to providing exceptional care and fostering better patient outcomes.”

Lucas Friedel grew up in Fayette County and graduated from La Grange High School. His wife Mindy (Cernoch) Friedel grew up in Schulenburg. The couple resides in Mansfield.

Every year in December, THA counts down the days to Christmas by recognizing 12 outstanding professionals as Health Care Heroes.

“Although we celebrate their hard work and dedication year-round, health care workers’ unwavering commitment and compassionate care means even more to their patients and their community during the holiday season,” the Association said. “That’s why Texas health care heroes deserve special thanks from all of us during this time of year!”