Inside King's-Edgehill School
A life-threatening emergency can happen at a moment’s notice and, though we don’t want to dwell on this reality, it is reassuring to know that there are those with the training and the initiative who can save the day. Such was the case for Carter Short, one of our Grade 9 students from Newfoundland and Labrador. A capable student and a responsible young man, Carter was honoured with the Red Cross Rescuer Award at our last full School assembly. His quick thinking and responsible actions saved a choking victim earlier in the school year.
It was Grandparents’ Day, and about 300 people were gathered in the Concert Hall enjoying an afternoon luncheon and the student entertainment provided. One of our visiting grandfathers, seated at the table with Carter and his grandmother, began choking. The grandfather couldn’t speak and was bent over, having difficulties breathing. Immediately, Carter recognized the emergency and leapt to his feet, before anyone else in the room responded to his grandmother’s calls for help. His first aid training had prepared him well and, after a quick assessment of the situation, Carter provided forceful back blows that removed the obstruction from the gentleman’s airway. Carter later told me that he was ready to provide abdominal thrusts, had his initial efforts not worked. While many train to respond in first aid situations, it takes a special kind of courage and confidence to be the one to take the lead.
That was Carter on October 4th, 2018, and the Red Cross was eager to provide him with their Rescuer Award for his actions. Aside from the Bronze Medallion training that Carter received in St. John’s, he credited the first aid training that he received at School, provided to all in our KES Cadet Corps, as preparing him with the knowledge and confidence to act. Carter was surprised and humbled to receive this well-deserved award on June 4th.
Congratulations, Carter!
