Last year, Vandalia Junior High School Teacher, Jeanette Karrow, sprang into action when a student began choking on a piece of bread while she was supervising the lunchroom. Using skills learned through Red Cross CPR and First Aid training, Karrow conducted abdominal thrusts and quickly dislodged the food from the student’s airway.

On Monday, the American Red Cross went to Vandalia Junior High to honor Karrow for her extraordinary courage.

She received a Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action for her decisive actions during the crisis.

This award is presented by the American Red Cross to individuals who step up in an emergency situation and help save or sustain a life.

Vandalia School District #120 Resource Officer Brian Roedl praised Karrow’s bravery, saying “In that moment she acted as a first responder and did an amazing job.”

Red Cross Executive Director Dawn Morris added that Karrow’s quick response “truly showcases the Red Cross mission to help others in their time of need.”

Red Cross training empowers individuals to act when every second counts. To learn more or sign up for a class, visit redcross.org/takeaclass. To nominate someone who has saved a life using Red Cross training, visit LifesavingAwards.org.

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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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