CHAMPLAIN, N.Y.. (WCAX) – First responders are being praised for their quick thinking last fall to help to save the life of a northern New York woman.
“Everyone did a phenomenal job — because I’m still here,” said Beth Kissel, recalling the day last October when she had a heart attack. “I walked in and told them, ‘You know, I felt funny.’ I was having chest pain, heartburn, and they put me in a wheelchair, brought me back.”
The Champlain woman joined other officials Tuesday to thank first responders and primary care staff at Hudson Headwaters, including handing out “Save Awards” to more than a dozen people who helped save her life.
Kissel says it was only seconds after arriving at Hudson Headwaters that she went into cardiac arrest, which prompted primary care staff to jump into action. “The last person I saw was my husband sitting in the chair looking at me and then I woke up in the back of the ambulance,” she said.
From Hudson Headwaters, she was taken to CVPH and then to the UVM Medical Center. However, she says it wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for staff and first responders’ initial response. “I’m glad that they were there and everything happened for a reason and I am still here. But I still think they were the angels that were here,” she said.
Jessica Menard, an LPN at Hudson Headwaters, was among those who received an award. “Today, receiving this award — it’s great, but the reward is her standing there,” Menard said.
Cory Thompson, the captain of Champlain and Mooers EMS, says Kissel’s story is an example of how instant action can save a life. “It’s a tribute to the quick thinking, the ongoing training that people do behind the scenes, and the ability to act quickly to have a good outcome,” Thompon said.