Heroes in action save life during school emergency

During a recent government meeting, Lori Reed, the nurse manager for the school health program, recounted a life-saving incident that took place at Wintergreen Primary School on September 12th. A parent became unconscious in the school parking lot while waiting to pick up their child. Fortunately, the parent’s wife was present and initiated CPR immediately.

School first responder coach Brandon Hodges and nurse Shianna Lugo quickly responded to the emergency, taking over resuscitation efforts with chest compressions and utilizing an on-site automated external defibrillator (AED). Their efforts were bolstered by the assistance of retired military medic Gerald John Kosher and volunteer Jason Byrd from the Wintergreen Fire and Rescue Department, who stepped in to help with chest compressions.

Thanks to the coordinated actions of these individuals, the parent regained consciousness and was able to walk to the ambulance with assistance. Reed highlighted the critical nature of such emergencies, noting that the survival rate for cardiac events occurring outside of a hospital is only 10 to 12%, according to the American Heart Association.

The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude from the board and community for the heroic actions of those involved, emphasizing the importance of their roles in ensuring community safety. Reed's account serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that quick thinking and teamwork can have in life-threatening situations.