Buehler YMCA Staff Save a Life

Earlier this month, Michelle Ewanio, YMCA staff member was recognized by the American Red Cross with the Lifesaving Award for her heroic actions that saved the life of Buehler YMCA, Palatine, member Emir Cindric. Jake LeClair, who was a Buehler Y staff member at the time, was also recognized with the Extraordinary Personal Action Award for his life saving actions.

On May 1, 2016, Emir experienced cardiac distress, collapsed on the floor, and lost consciousness. Michelle Ewanio immediately responded by administering CPR, while another employee called 911. Jake LeClair retrieved an automated external defibrillator (AED) and attached the pads to an unresponsive Emir. Soon after, the paramedics arrived and transported him to a hospital.

Mr. Cindric's son later returned to the Buehler YMCA to inform staff that his father was alive and, according to his doctors, he would have been in much worse condition if CPR had not been administered so quickly.

"My dad is alone all the time. He spends the majority of his time at his office alone," he said. "The fact that this happened here, where he was surrounded by trained staff, is a miracle to me."

"Due to their training and swift emergency actions, Michelle and Jake saved the life of one of our members," says Matthew Tobias, Senior Director of Risk Management at the YMCA, who nominated them for the awards.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is strongly committed to the safety and well-being of our members, volunteers, and staff. Since 2012, all part-time and full-time employees receive comprehensive training in CPR/AED/First Aid and Child Protection every year.