FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — A seventh grader from Kastner Intermediate was recognized at an assembly for being a hero after his quick thinking helped save a classmate’s life at school.
A student swallowed a piece of gum after a teacher told him to stop chewing it.
The student started choking, holding his throat, coughing, and ran towards the door by the trash can.
However, 13-year-old Jermaine Whitehead noticed and stepped in to help.
He rushed over and performed the abdominal thrust maneuver to dislodge the gum.
Jermaine was recognized by the school for his heroic efforts and making his family proud.
He said, “Don’t be scared of a situation that’s very frightening. Try to be calm, persevere, and just do it. Take action.”
This is the first time the school has ever awarded the Thunderbird Life Saving Award.
The school’s principal says it highlights the student’s courage as well as the profound impact a single person can have on another.