Two kids from Paola were recognized for their efforts in helping to attend to their grandfather in a medical emergency. On September 6th, their grandfather fell and was unconscious. Cecelia Smith called 911. The call was answered by dispatcher Nicole Archer. Cecelia was able to calmly provide the address and information about her grandfather’s emergency. The dispatcher was able to talk Cecelia and her 9-year-old brother, Dezi, to move him onto his back and go through the chest compression process. They continued the compression for about six minutes before EMS arrived and took over. Unfortunately, the man did not survive, which made the Kansas City Regional 911 Hero Award Ceremony so emotional; but, Miami County Undersheriff, Matt Kelly, said it was to emphasize their courageous action.
The Kansas Regional 911 Hero Award Program was created to recognize and reward young people who show they know how and when to use 911, by performing some heroic action during an emergency. Kelly says Cecelia and Dezi exemplify courage and heroism.
