Antelope Valley Medical Center Introduces New Life-Saving Care
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Hospital launches ECMO program and shares first patient’s journey of hope.
(LANCASTER, Calif., December 22, 2025) — Antelope Valley Medical Center (AVMC) is proud to announce the addition of the Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) procedure—offering a new level of hope and healing for patients facing severe heart and lung conditions. This advanced technology provides critical support when conventional treatments are not enough, giving patients a fighting chance during life’s most challenging moments.
ECMO is an innovative life-support therapy that acts as an artificial heart and lung outside the body, allowing these vital organs to rest and recover, while the specialized machine circulates blood, adding oxygen and removing carbon dioxide. Unlike traditional heart-lung bypass machines used only during surgery, ECMO can support patients for days or even weeks, giving them critical time to heal or prepare for the next step in treatment. While ECMO is not a cure, it serves as a bridge to survival, helping patients recover, undergo transplant or surgery, or remain stable while doctors determine the best course of care.
“ECMO is one of the most advanced specialized therapies available, and thanks to the leadership of our CEO Edward Mirzabegian and CNO Penny Hammer, it’s now accessible right here in the Antelope Valley,” said Dr. Pramod Kadambi, M.D., President/Chief of Staff and Director of Cardiovascular Services & Cath Lab for Antelope Valley Medical Center. “It’s a game-changer for patients who need every possible chance to survive. Our community deserves the very best and this addition reflects our commitment to providing the highest level of care for our patients.”
Earlier this year, Michael Francis faced one of the most challenging moments of his life. In a fight for survival, a decision was made for Michael to become AVMC’s first ECMO patient—a groundbreaking step that ultimately saved his life. He recently returned to express his gratitude and appreciation to the team that gave him a second chance. Michael has since completed his rehabilitation and is back home, a true testament to resilience and exceptional care.
“I wouldn’t be here without God and the skilled team at Antelope Valley (Medical Center). I’m grateful and wish I could give each one of them a hug”, said Michael Francis, AVMC’s first ECMO patient.
Ensuring patients receive compassionate, round-the-clock care, AVMC’s ECMO program is supported by a dedicated team of critical care specialists, nurses, and respiratory therapists trained in this complex therapy.
To learn about AVMC’s ECMO program and read more of Michael’s inspiring story, visit www.avmc.org.
Picture caption: Michael Francis (left), Antelope Valley Medical Center’s first ECMO patient had a multidisciplinary medical team save his life, however fondly remembered Julie Garibay, RN, CCRN the most.
Picture caption: With pride, Dr. Pramod Kadambi, M.D., stands at Michael Francis’ bedside during Antelope Valley Medical Center’s first ECMO procedure.
About Antelope Valley Medical Center
Antelope Valley Medical Center (AVMC) is the leading hospital in the heart of the Antelope Valley, delivering high-quality, compassionate healthcare to the community since 1955. As a 420-bed, full-service, acute-care hospital, AVMC offers comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, advanced surgical procedures, maternity and neonatal care, cardiovascular care, and the region’s only trauma center, pediatric and inpatient behavioral health unit. With a focus on innovation and compassionate care, AVMC is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves. For more information, visit www.avmc.org, call (661) 949-5000, or follow us at @avmedicalcenter.
