LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – Several staff members including a CCSD police officer were recognized for their heroic work the first day back from winter break in January.
Student Sophia Finn Whittacre collapsed in her classroom at the end of the first period.
“The breathing was a little labored and we all kind of realized it was a little more intense that a stroke,” said Christopher Brooks, a CCSD police officer.
The responding staff started CPR while another went to retrieve the AED or Automated External Defibrillator to use on her.
Moments later, paramedics arrived and continued treating Whittacre while transporting her to the hospital.
There they determined she had a rare disorder, Ventricular Tachycardia. It’s where adrenaline pumps into her heart and could put it out of rhythm.
She’s fine now thanks to beta blockers and a small implanted device which is similar to an AED.
“If I were to have another episode it would immediately shock my heart, really nice technology,” says Sophia Whittacre.
The staff and police officer were honored with certificates and a proclamation from Clark County Commissioner Michael Naft.
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