Local 986 Member Helps to Save Life
With a life on the line, Rob Pennell springs into action
PDX (Portland, Oregon) Lead Facilities Maintenance Technician Rob Pennell recently helped save the life of a stranger who was found unresponsive on the floor of the terminal.
Rob and all our ground service equipment and facilities employees at PDX received CPR training through the airport's fire department. He was willing to put his training to work and after examining the man started performing CPR with one hand and dialing for help with the other.
As Rob worked, a few others in the vicinity pitched in, and one who had medical training took over for Rob on the CPR compressions. "I'm glad he did so," Rob recalled. "I had the training, but it's different on a dummy than on a person who is unconscious in front of you. That other guy really knew what he was doing and was using a lot more force than I had been using. It taught me a lesson that I'll be able to use if I need to do this again."
The gentleman was conscious and responsive when EMTs arrived on the scene. "I applaud Rob for his willingness to assist a person in need and for his quick thinking to start CPR," said PDX Facilities and Ground Service Equipment Maintenance Supervisor Jeff Barrow.
The above was posted on the Flying Together website.
Well done, Brother Pennell!
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