HFD and Memorial Hermann dedicate new Mobile Stroke Unit to Dr. David Persse

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Houston Fire Department (HFD) in partnership with Memorial Hermann Health System unveiled the nation's first fire department-owned Mobile Stroke Unit (MSU) today, marking a milestone in emergency medical services and expanding access to lifesaving stroke treatment across Houston.

The new unit, the second serving the city, was officially dedicated in honor of Dr. David Persse, HFD's retired EMS Physician Director, who died Sept. 28, after more than three decades of service to Houston.

Persse’s daughter, Courtney, delivered a heartfelt, emotional speech about her father’s dedication to his job and how the loss of his older brother to a stroke propelled him to help develop the city’s original Mobile Stroke Unit program in 2014. His leadership helped establish Houston as a national leader in delivering advanced emergency medical care before patients reach the hospital.

Mobile Stroke Units are specially equipped ambulances that bring advanced stroke assessment and treatment directly to patients. By allowing specialized medical teams to evaluate patients and begin treatment before reaching a hospital, these units can significantly reduce delays in care and improve the chances of recovery.