19th Annual Hometown Heroes awardees Raheem Morris, Nicole Morris and Dr. Andrew Oleksyn saved a lifeless child while vacationing in Las Vegas. Using CPR and AED skills, Raheem found the AED, Dr. Oleskyn applied it and Nicole assisted with care and support of the victim's family. Their quick actions and compassion were vital to saving a life.
Raheem and Nicole Morris, vacationing with their three children in Las Vegas, found themselves in a harrowing situation by the pool when a child was pulled out, seemingly lifeless. Acting swiftly, Raheem's recent CPR and AED training kicked in as he rallied to locate the AED.
"We see someone jump in the pool and we hear a man screaming ‘help help help!’ and he was carrying a 3-year-old boy" said Nicole.
The child was blue as the lifeguard started CPR, at which point another bystander, Dr. Andrew Oleksyn, stepped in and took over chest compressions. Once Raheem located and delivered the AED, Nicole opened it and handed it over to Dr. Oleksyn who began administering the AED process.
Once medical attention was underway, Nicole took charge of ensuring the safety and comfort of the distressed child’s siblings. With the victim’s parents distraught and distracted, Nicole managed to organize care until the children's nanny arrived, exemplifying quick thinking and compassion amidst chaos.
After the situation stabilized, Nicole continued her care by reaching out to the child's mother, providing support and assistance beyond the immediate crisis. She ensured continuity of care by obtaining important information about allergies and other pertinent details.
The Morris’ compassion extended beyond the initial crisis as they took in the children for the evening, providing comfort and sustenance with a pizza dinner. Meanwhile, Raheem's gesture to procure diapers for the children demonstrated their commitment to going above and beyond to assist those in need.
The following day, they were joyously reunited with Wyatt, the child they helped save, and his grateful family. The experience not only highlighted the importance of CPR and AED training but also showcased the power of swift action, compassion, and community support in times of crisis.
Sign up today for CPR training at redcross.org/take-a-class/cpr/cpr-training so you're prepared to save someone's life.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Your time and talent can make a real difference in people’s lives. Discover the role that's right for you and join us today!