CPR saves lives
Being the director of the public library brings me so many different experiences, some I am prepared for and others I never see coming. I get to witness the very best of our wonderful community every day. Last week we had a performance at our main branch and one of the actors had a cardiac event during the show. At first the audience thought it was part of the show, but it suddenly became clear that this was a critical situation. Our staff reacted quickly: 911 was called, patrons were cleared out of the space and one of our board members, Molly Krumm, administered CPR. By the time I was notified and made it into the library, the gentleman had already been taken to the hospital and was alert. A first responder told me that early intervention likely saved his life. There is so much good in this story that could have easily taken a very different, devastating turn. This man had Woodford’s finest looking after him. Police, EMS and the fire department were all on the scene within minutes of his heart failure. Additionally, a very brave and humble citizen did not hesitate to step up, with her service dog by her side, and provide life-saving care for a complete stranger. My take-aways are this: Life is short, sometimes unfairly so. Get the CPR training. Thank your first responders. Love your neighbor. (And visit your local library.)
Stacy Thurman, Executive Director
Woodford County Public Library Â