Story told by: Nick Gibson 

On October 20, 2025, Khalil Jenkins went to work in Westminster, South Carolina, never imagining he would save someone’s life that day.  

“I was sitting in the breakroom eating my lunch and I heard a woman behind me cough,” he said. 

At first, Khalil thought his coworker was simply clearing her throat. But within seconds, he realized something was seriously wrong. 

“She reached out and touched me because she couldn’t talk,” Khalil said. “So, I jumped out of my seat and jumped behind her to do 3 to 4 abdominal thrusts.” 

Khalil says those thrusts helped the woman begin to breathe again, while another coworker ran to get her some water. 

“We got her some water, and she was able to grab some fresh air,” Khalil said. “We monitored her for a few minutes, and she seemed to be alright after that.” 

After speaking with the woman, Khalil discovered that she had been choking and was unable to breathe. Thanks to his quick action, she didn’t require any further medical attention. 

Khalil was later nominated for the American Red Cross Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action.  

This Lifesaving Award is given to individuals who step up in an emergency and help save or sustain a life using lifesaving skills. These individuals exemplify the mission of the Red Cross to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies. They are to be commended for their willingness to help others in distress. 

Khalil said being nominated for this award took him by surprise. 

“It was more of a reaction-in-the-moment kind of thing,” he said. “I think it’s pretty cool to be nominated for doing something that I had no intent on receiving an award for.” 

Overall, Khalil says he’s grateful he was able to save a life. 

“Outside of being a father, I don’t think there is a better feeling,” he said. “It’s pretty awesome to perform that and have somebody walk up to you because you helped save them, and they are able to tell you thank you.” 

During an emergency, every second counts until medical help arrives. In fact, some 70% of cardiac arrests happen at home, so learning first aid, CPR, and how to use an AED can give you the confidence to act fast and help save lives. 

Sign up to learn lifesaving skills such as CPR, first aid, water safety and more at redcross.org/TakeAClass.