Red Cross honors off-duty EMT for saving a life in Maine
By Jennifer Costa, Regional Communications Director
Dustin Andrews and Rob Parritt started January 24, 2023, as strangers – completely unaware that they lived just a few miles apart in Windham, Maine. But before the day’s end one man would save the other’s life.
“Thanks to his training and fortitude, Dustin was able to be the bystander we all hope will come to our aid, and the bystander we should all aspire to be,” said Steve Thomas, American Red Cross executive director, Southern Maine Chapter.
Rob Parritt with Dustin Andrews |
“A medical emergency can happen at any time, and quick action by a bystander like Dustin can be the difference between life and death. Performing CPR during the first few minutes of cardiac arrest can double or even triple someone’s likelihood of survival," said Thomas. "In these situations, any one of us could find ourselves a victim – and any one of us could find ourselves a bystander."
“I definitely credit my training. I’ve done CPR on-duty before, but this is the first time the emergency happened right in front of me with no time to prepare. Muscle memory just kicked in that morning,” said Andrews.
Dustin Andrews with Steve Thomas |
“Dustin succeeded in fulfilling the mission of the American Red Cross - to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies. He saved a life - a husband, a father, a grandfather and his neighbor. May we all possess Dustin’s strength, courage, and lifesaving skills if ever they are needed,” Thomas said.
More than 350,000 people suffer a cardiac arrest every year. Sadly, only nine percent survive. That’s why every second counts when responding to a cardiac arrest.
“A miracle happened on January 24th thanks to Dustin and a team of other angels,” said Sharon Parritt, the victim’s wife.
“Almost 48 years ago, Rob rescued our elderly landlords from a house fire. They were in their 90’s. He was rewarded for his heroics by his own hero - Dustin. Our family is forever grateful,” she concluded.
Get Trained
Red Cross training gives people the knowledge and skills to act in an emergency and save a life. A variety of online, blended (online and in-person skills session) and classroom courses are available at redcross.org/takeaclass.
Nominate Someone
Do you know a hero who ought to be recognized for saving a life? Visit LifesavingAwards.org to nominate and recognize an individual or group of individuals who have used the skills and knowledge learned in an American Red Cross Training Services course to help save or sustain a life.
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