When a Texas father suddenly collapsed while attending the Nike EYBL Peach Jam last month in North Augusta, members of the North Augusta Department of Public Safety, athletic trainers and Aiken EMS jumped in immediately.
On Aug. 7, they were honored as Piedmont Augusta’s First Friday Heroes.
“Responders performed CPR and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) while awaiting EMS arrival. Once on scene, EMS personnel continued advanced cardiac life support during transport to Piedmont Augusta,” according to a news release from Piedmont Augusta.
Cornell Larry was transported to Piedmont Augusta, where emergency, critical care and cardiovascular teams continued treatment.
“You have the right people in the right roles,” he said. “The first responders who came to my aid and the caregivers at Piedmont Augusta treated me like family. Their quick actions, expertise and compassion gave me a second chance, and my family and I are forever grateful.”
A ceremony honoring the recipients was held with hospital leadership. Each received a commemorative plaque recognizing their extraordinary teamwork and service.
“As a nurse, I’ve seen firsthand how critical those first moments can be during a cardiac emergency,” said Janee Dock, chief nursing officer at Piedmont Augusta in the news release. “This patient’s survival is a testament to what can happen when first responders and hospital caregivers work together seamlessly. Because of their quick actions, teamwork and commitment to excellence, a husband and father was able to return home to his family.”
Piedmont Augusta launched the First Friday Hero program to recognize first responders who go above and beyond the call of duty.
Those recognized include Lt. Clay Swann, Lt. Kyle Golden, Sgt. Ed Galo, Public Safety Officer Chris Morehouse. Public Safety Officer Iyceiss Drayton, Public Safety Officer Dan Snogans, Public Safety Officer Ryan Dabbs, Public Safety Officer Matt Coule, Public Safety Officer Aubrey Alewine, Public Safety Officer Scott Bernardinim, Athletic Trainer Trish Leslie Athletic Trainer Jessica Coleman, Paramedic Hamilton Rivers and Paramedic Yvette Barrett.
To nominate a CSRA first responder for the Piedmont Augusta First Friday Hero award, complete the online nomination form or email firstfridayheroaugusta@piedmont.org.
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