How a CPR Class Saved a Life

When a Neighbor Child Fell into a Pool, Ron Cook's Training Was Called On

When a three-year-old neighbor fell into her swimming pool and stopped breathing, campus elevator mechanic Ron Cook got the ultimate test of his CPR and first aid training. He passed with an A+.

On May 7, "I had taken the day off to work in the back yard," said Cook. He'd just finished when his neighbor came running over carrying his unconscious daughter in his arms. The girl, Samantha, slipped into the pool while her dad's back was turned.

"Something just kicks in," said the 44-year-old Cook, who's worked on campus for the past seven years. He had taken CPR training in 1979 and last year had again received training sponsored by the Physical Plant health and safety office.

Cook followed the procedures perfectly-he had his wife call 911 and attempted the "shake and shout" approach first. When he got no response, he immediately started mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. "In just a few attempts she spit up water and started breathing."

The three-year-old has fully recovered and is doing fine thanks to Cook's fast and expert actions.

"Saving a life is a wonderful, rewarding experience," he said. "Everyone who works on campus should learn CPR and the Heimlich maneuver. I feel really strongly about that."

Campus's annual CPR Saturday will be held next year on March 14. Treacy Malloy, 642-9036, has information. The Red Cross, (415) 202-0783, also offers classes.

   


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