BARRHEAD - A group of Barrhead residents who were at the right place at the right time joined an exclusive club often reserved for emergency services and medical personnel.
They helped save a human life.
On May 27, Town of Barrhead Mayor Dave McKenzie and the rest of council recognized Blue Heron Support Services Association (BHSSA) employee Trisha Enman, Town of Barrhead workers recreation programmer Baukje Strawson and communications director Jennifer Pederson, Pembina West Co-op member relations coordinator Cheyenne Tischer for their efforts their quick actions during a medical emergency that occurred at recent Barrhead and District Historical Society meeting for the planning of the community's Canada Day celebrations.
"The Town of Barrhead would like to formally recognize the swift, courageous and life-saving actions taken by several individuals who attended a [Barrhead Centennial Museum] planning event," he said.
McKenzie said Enman was the first to notice the person was in distress and that a serious medical event was unfolding in front of them.
Mere moments later, he added, Strawson stepped in, assessed the situation and determined that CPR was required.
"Without hesitation, she began administering the life-saving measures," McKenzie said.
He added Tischer and Pederson provided additional support, who, upon Strawson's direction, called 911 and retrieved the automated external defibrillator (AED) from the Barrhead Regional Aquatics Centre.
"It was through the rapid and coordinated efforts of all the people involved, along with their preparedness and training, were instrumental in the successful outcome of saving a life," McKenzie said. "On behalf of Town of Barrhead council and the entire community, we extend our gratitude and commendation to Trisha Enman, Baukje Strawson, Cheyenne Tishcer, and Jennifer Pederson for their exemplary response under pressure, their quick thinking and calm action not only exemplary response under pressure not only exemplify the importance of emergency preparedness but it directly contributed in saving a life .... With your actions that day, you've joined a small, select group. You should be very proud of what you did."
Pederson, holding back tears, said it was amazing to see how Enman was able to recognize what was happening "before the situation took place" and how Strawson was able to take control of the situation.
"Just her knowing what to do and acting instantaneously within 30 seconds, and then Cheyenne handling everything with 911, it was incredible to witness and be a part of," she said.
Barry Kerton, TownandCountryToday.com
