Misty Gilbert received the Certificate of Merit for saving the life of a young child in Summerville.
In May of 2019, Misty Simpson called on her American Red Cross training in Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED to help save the life of a child who collapsed at a residence in Summerville. For this heroic and lifesaving action, Misty Gilbert was awarded the Red Cross Certificate of Merit in a virtual ceremony on July 7th 2020.
The Certificate of Merit is the highest award given by the Red Cross to individuals who save or sustain a life using skills learned in a Red Cross Training Services course.
“We’re extremely proud to present a Certificate of Merit to Misty Gilbert,” said Ashley Henyan, Executive Director of the Lowcountry SC Chapter. “Her actions exemplify our mission to help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.”
Benson Davis was only 21 months old at the time, and staying with his regular Monday-Friday nanny, Misty Gilbert. Every day after lunch, Benson went upstairs for his nap. On this particular day though, as he was about to get ready for his nap, Benson collapsed to the floor and started shaking. Immediately, Misty called 911. Then she began administering CPR. Next, she contacted Benson’s mom, Brandi Davis. Benson opened his eyes shortly after his mom and the paramedics arrived. Benson was transported to the hospital where nurses and doctors took over his care. Misty even made the trip to the hospital to check-on Benson after their traumatic afternoon.
Today, Benson is happy and healthy, and doing well.
Misty’s actions exemplify the highest degree of concern one human being can have for another.
“Because of the training I received I was able to save Benson’s life. I look back on that day and I can say that I wouldn’t have done anything different. That is because of the training that I received through the Red Cross,” said Gilbert. “I cannot encourage people enough to get training. I never thought I would ever have to use it. It is super simple, and most can be done online.”
Red Cross training gives people the knowledge and skills to act in an emergency and save a life. A variety of online, blended (online and in-person skills sessions) and classroom courses are available at redcross.org/takeaclass.
If you or someone you know has used skills and knowledge learned in an American Red Cross Training Services course to help save or sustain the life of another individual, visit LifesavingAwards.org to nominate, recognize, or be inspired.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
