Bensenville paramedic honored for saving boy's life at Elk Grove waterpark
Robert Locascio was at Rainbow Falls Waterpark in Elk Grove Village on Aug. 13, enjoying a day off from his work as a Bensenville firefighter/paramedic.
But Locascio's quick actions that day showed he really was never off duty.
Elk Grove Fire Chief Richard Mikel fought back tears this week as he awarded Locascio a lifesaving award for rescuing 6-year-old Noah Ury, who he found floating face down in the pool at Rainbow Falls.
"This is one of those stories that's difficult to do with a dry eye," Mikel said at Tuesday's village board meeting. "Robert took immediate actions. He was in the right place, he knew the right thing to do and he did it, and because of his actions, little Noah is here with us tonight.
"It's great to have a happy ending to this story."
Locascio noticed something in the water that "wasn't right" - perhaps a piece of clothing - Mikel said, and when the paramedic discovered it was a boy who wasn't breathing, he pulled Noah to the side of the pool and began lifesaving procedures.
Noah, who was at the award presentation with his family, read a letter addressed to Locascio, thanking him for saving his life.
"I'm glad you're doing great, Noah," Locascio said.