Teen Heroes: How Students Saved Lives at Skyline Chili
In moments of crisis, ordinary people can rise to extraordinary heights. This is exemplified by two remarkable incidents at Skyline Chili restaurants, where quick-thinking students, Austin Goddard and Branden Barker, stepped up to save lives. Their stories are a testament to the power of preparedness, courage, and the impact of learning life-saving skills.
Austin Goddard: A Second Day Hero
Austin Goddard, a 16-year-old student from South Ripley High School, had only been working at Skyline Chili in Cincinnati, Ohio, for two days when he faced an unexpected emergency. While bussing a table, Austin witnessed a 74-year-old man, Larry, collapse during his meal. Without hesitation, Austin, who had received CPR training at school, rushed to the man's aid and began administering CPR.
"I ran over and I did CPR on him," Austin told ABC News. "The police officer walked through the door as soon as he started being responsive. My adrenaline was going and fear wasn't a factor at the moment. It all kind of kicked in [afterwards] and I was like, 'Wow.'"
His actions proved crucial. Larry regained consciousness and was promptly transported to a nearby hospital by paramedics. Sarah Sicking, Skyline's director of marketing, emphasized the significance of Austin's intervention, stating that he might have saved the man's life.
Austin's mother, Shannon Goddard, who also works at Skyline, expressed immense pride in her son's quick thinking and bravery. "He was so emotional and shaking and couldn't speak," Shannon Goddard told ABC News about her son. "I woke up to a message on my cell phone from his dad saying that our son had saved a man's life." She described him as a mature and responsible young man, highlighting his remarkable response to the emergency.
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The impact of Austin's actions resonated deeply with Larry and his family. Days later, they visited the restaurant with a signed photo of Larry recovering well, accompanied by a tray of Skyline food as a token of gratitude. The inscription on the photo read, "Thank you Austin for saving my life."
Austin's humility shines through in his reflection on the incident. "There's still kids that are not out there robbing and shooting people and killing people. I'm just glad I was able to save a life instead of take a life," said Austin.
Branden Barker: The "Hug of Life"
Another act of heroism unfolded at a Skyline Chili in Reading, Ohio, where 17-year-old Branden Barker, a high school senior, put his recently acquired knowledge of the Heimlich maneuver to life-saving use.
Phil Hogan, a 65-year-old former firefighter, was enjoying his usual four-way chili when an oyster cracker became lodged in his throat, blocking his airway. Sam Lindner, Barker's co-worker, noticed Hogan's distress as he was walking back from the drive-thru.
Branden immediately recognized the emergency and sprang into action. "I got behind him,” said Barker. “Wrapped my arms around him and put my hands where they needed to be, and just started to do it. And then out came some food, and he was breathing again."
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Hogan, deeply grateful, affectionately called the Heimlich maneuver the "hug of life." He later expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Branden, saying, "You should have an S on your back like Superman!”
Branden had learned the Heimlich maneuver in James Budde's biology and intro to healthcare class earlier in the year. Budde praised Branden's ability to remain calm and effectively apply his training under pressure. "The fact that he was able to stay calm and use his training to take over and save somebody's life was just unbelievable," said Budde.
Branden's mother, Heather Woebkenberg, echoed this sentiment, marveling at her son's modesty and quick response. "And just for him to be like, 'It's not a big deal,' when it really is, is amazing to me,” said Barker’s mom, Heather Woebkenberg.
Branden's act of bravery left a lasting impression on Hogan. "He knew what to do,” said Hogan. “He was there. He was 'Branden-on-the-spot.'"
In response, Branden humbly stated, "I feel pretty good about it, but I feel like anybody would have done that for him."
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Branden plans to pursue sports management at Indiana Tech, while also participating in track.
The Importance of Life-Saving Skills
The stories of Austin Goddard and Branden Barker underscore the critical importance of learning life-saving skills such as CPR and the Heimlich maneuver. These skills can empower individuals to respond effectively in emergency situations and potentially save lives.
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a life-saving technique used when someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped. It involves chest compressions and rescue breaths to help circulate blood and oxygen to the brain and other vital organs.
The Heimlich maneuver is a first-aid procedure used to dislodge an object that is blocking a person's airway. It involves applying abdominal thrusts to create pressure that forces the object out of the airway.
These skills are relatively easy to learn and can be acquired through courses offered by organizations such as the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross. Many schools and community centers also provide training in these techniques.
The Ripple Effect of Heroism
The actions of Austin Goddard and Branden Barker have had a profound impact on their communities. They have inspired others to learn life-saving skills and have demonstrated the power of young people to make a difference.
Their stories have also brought positive attention to Skyline Chili, a beloved Cincinnati institution. Sarah Sicking, Skyline's director of marketing, expressed the company's pride in Austin and Branden for their selfless acts. The company, along with first responders, is working to honor Austin for his bravery.
Moreover, these incidents serve as a reminder that heroes can emerge from any walk of life. Austin and Branden were ordinary students who rose to the occasion when faced with extraordinary circumstances. Their courage and quick thinking exemplify the best of humanity.
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