Editor,
This past Monday, during our regular morning workout, one of the participants in our group suddenly fell to the ground and was in apparent severe distress. Fortunately, two of the individuals in our group were Laguna Beach lifeguards. What took place in the next several minutes was the most amazing performance of competence and professionalism that I have ever witnessed. These two lifeguards proceeded to calmly and methodically administer life saving CPR to our fallen friend whom, unknown to us at the time, was suffering from a severe heart attack. You only have to hear once, “He is not breathing; there is no pulse or heartbeat” to know the situation is dire.
Through their diligence and teamwork, a result of their Department of Marine Safety training and their own personal commitment to their profession, they were able to keep our friend alive and stable until the ‘cavalry’ arrived. The fire department and paramedic personnel arrived swiftly and with the same professionalism and efficiency they continued to perform life saving services, stabilize our friend and ultimately transport him to the hospital. I am extremely happy to say he is in good condition and is on his way to a speedy recovery.
There is no doubt in my mind the lifeguards and fire departments actions on Monday saved our friend’s life. I know the two lifeguards personally and as much as I would like to mention their names, I know they would be embarrassed by any attention brought to them.
Speaking for myself and the other participants in the morning workout, we feel extremely fortunate that they were there Monday morning and blessed they are a part of our community, protecting us and our families. We thank them from the bottom of our hearts.
The workout crowd.
Brad Robinson, Laguna Beach
