By Alana Mauger

On Thursday, three employees at Gloria Dei Memory Care at the Park in Hatboro, Montgomery County, received American Red Cross Certificates of Extraordinary Personal Action for stepping up to help save a resident in an emergency situation.

In May, Charge Nurse Justyna Witesk, Dietary Director Dave Hoffer and Med Tech/CNA Tina Toliver took lifesaving action when a resident began choking during lunch. According to Activities Director Christina Morasco, who submitted the award nomination, the resident was in obvious distress, was turning blue and eventually lost consciousness.

In response, Toliver called 9-1-1 immediately, then secured the area and kept residents safe and calm while Witesk and Hoffer administered abdominal thrusts. Their actions helped clear the resident’s airway, and she was able to breathe and begin speaking softly.

On Sept. 8, Morasco and Administrator Rochelle Sajda staged a surprise lunchtime celebration for the recipients, during which Jennifer Graham, executive director, Red Cross Delaware Valley Chapter, presented the awards.

“These individuals exemplify the mission of the Red Cross to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies,” said “We commend them for their willingness to help others in distress.”

The awardees received a certificate and pin from the Red Cross, and flowers, lunch and lifesaver-theme cakes from the facility.

Lifesaving Awards program

The Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action is awarded to people who step forward in an emergency situation to help save or sustain a human life. It is one of four awards given as part of the Red Cross Lifesaving Awards program. To nominate and recognize a person or group who has taken action to save or sustain a life, visit LifesavingAwards.org.