As Father’s Day approaches, Ryan Stock of Midland is being recognized his heroic CPR efforts that saved his dad.

This week, Ryan received an American Red Cross Lifesaving Award, a prestigious honor presented to individuals who use their Red Cross training in an emergency. Ryan said he received his training at his workplace.

“I never expected to use the training, but I am so thankful I had it,” he said.

Becky Gaskin, executive director for the East Central Bay Chapter of the Michigan Red Cross, presented Ryan with a Lifesaving medal and Certificate of Merit, which is signed by the President of the United States, for his extraordinary actions.

She said Ryan is a shining example of why everyone should consider Red Cross safety training.“Anyone can be a hero in an emergency if they have the right tools,” Becky said. “It is our hope that Ryan’s heroic actions inspire others to get trained in these skills that save lives.”

Ryan said it was just a regular day in October 2021 when he came home with groceries for his parents. Moments later, Ryan discovered his dad in his recliner chair not breathing.

After calling 911 Ryan followed instructions from the dispatcher until paramedics arrived. That’s also when his training skills kicked in from the Red Cross CPR course he completed a month earlier. First responders to the scene said his father would not have survived without Ryan’s efforts.

“I didn’t think I could handle all of that,” Ryan said. “The training was outstanding.  It came back to me just like that.”

For Ryan’s part, he said he thinks every person should get trained.

“Once we got past the trauma of it, I’m just thankful I have my dad,” Ryan said. “Everybody should get basic Red Cross training. There’s so much better chance of saving somebody in an emergency.”

By Alicia Dorr, Regional Communications Manager