Source: The Press Democrat
Heroic Lifeguards Recognized for Life-Saving Actions at Aquatic Center
A team of Sonoma Splash lifeguards is being recognized for its valiant efforts in helping to save the life of an adult colleague who experienced a cardiac emergency while participating in a training at Sonoma Valley High School Aquatic Center last month.
Head lifeguard Rachelle Fugitt-Schneider and her team — Victor Astua, Joel Avila Vega and Emily Shumaker as well as SVHS students Isabella Alvarez, Remy Harrison, Skyler Parker and Alegria Silvi — all quickly stepped in to help at around 5:20 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 12, when the stricken lifeguard collapsed on the bleachers.
They activated a nearby automated external defibrillator to revive him and then applied CPR. An emergency medical services team from the Sonoma Valley Fire Department arrived shortly afterward to take over from the lifeguards. The man then was taken to a local hospital and is now recovering at his home.
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my fellow lifeguards who were training with me on the night of this event,” said the man, who asked that his name not be used. “They were vigilant and ready to perform lifesaving measures at any moment.
“These co-workers are extremely kind, well-trained, motivated and take their lifesaving roles very seriously. I am so privileged to work with such an awesome group of lifeguards.”
A ceremony was held at the aquatic center on Monday, Feb. 10, to honor the lifeguards and the emergency medical services team that helped to save the man’s life.
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