Kindergarten Teacher Saves Choking Student, Receives Lifesaving Award

URGENT UPDATE: A heroic act by kindergarten teacher Karen Lanehart at Parkview Christian Academy in Yorkville has garnered national attention after she saved a choking student during lunch. The dramatic incident occurred on April 7, but the recognition came just recently on October 8, when Lanehart received a prestigious Lifesaving Award from the American Red Cross.

During a typical lunch period, Lanehart noticed a child struggling to breathe and unable to make any sound. Drawing on her recent CPR and First Aid training, she swiftly performed abdominal thrusts, successfully clearing the child’s airway and restoring normal breathing. Her prompt action has been praised as a testament to the importance of preparedness in emergency situations.

At the award ceremony attended by students, faculty, and the rescued child’s family, Lanehart expressed her gratitude for the training that enabled her to act decisively. “At first, I was scared when it happened, but then I remembered I had just taken the training two months earlier. I realized I was prepared to handle it,” she stated. Lanehart’s ability to remain calm in a crisis highlights the life-saving impact of the Red Cross training programs.

Levi Gotte, the Red Cross instructor who trained Lanehart, was also recognized at the event, further emphasizing the crucial role of education in emergency preparedness. Laura Muriello, executive director for the Illinois River Valley Chapter of the Red Cross, expressed her pride in honoring Lanehart, stating, “Her actions exemplify our mission to help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.”

This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of CPR training, which equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to save lives in critical situations. For those interested in gaining these vital skills, the Red Cross offers a variety of online and in-person training sessions. More information can be found at redcross.org/takeaclass.

This inspiring story is a call to action for communities to prioritize emergency preparedness and the training that empowers individuals to make a difference when it matters most. With a life saved and a hero recognized, this event at Parkview Christian Academy is a profound testament to the impact of education and quick thinking in emergencies. Share this story to inspire others to get trained and be prepared!