Brenda Lambros and her granddaughter, Bryannah Plessinger
“A few months ago I attended a luncheon where you (Red Cross Director Judy Elder) were the guest speaker. I didn’t know at the time that your demonstration would be the most important I have ever witnessed. Shortly after the luncheon, I was at home with my beautiful granddaughter Bryannah. She and I were sitting in the recliner together watching a movie when suddenly she jumped up with a look of terror in her eyes. She was choking on a piece of green peppermint candy.
Judy, you were my best friend and you didn't even know my name. I immediately recalled your demonstration on abdominal thrusts. Mechanically, I did everything that came to my memory of that day with you. As if it were a movie I was watching, I went through the motions of your demonstration. I realized that the candy wasn't coming out, so I turned her upside down and started beating on her back. I yelled to my husband to call 911, and after what seemed an eternity, the candy popped out of her mouth – the sweetest sound I have ever heard. Bryannah turned to me, with tears streaming down my face, hugged and kissed me and said, mama don't cry, you saved my life.
I want a message to go out to anyone and everyone who has someone in their life that they love, the American Red Cross may one day be your best friend. Please help them to help you.
About the American Red Cross, Dayton Area Chapter
The Dayton Area Chapter of the American Red Cross provides disaster preparedness and response, and health and safety education to residents of Montgomery, Greene and Preble counties, as well as assistance to families with members in the military. The Chapter also operates Emergency Housing Programs in Montgomery and Greene counties, and led by volunteers, responds to more than 200 local disaster incidents each year.
All local Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of area disasters by making a financial gift to the Dayton Area Chapter, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to those in need. Contributions may be sent to the Dayton Area Chapter, P.O. Box 517, Dayton, Ohio. Internet users can make secure online credit card donations by visiting www.dac.redcross.org.
