If not for the quick thinking and first aid training of a server, Rachel Brien is not sure if she was still alive today.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CgtIgSyAiU

Rapid action to save a life

She was out on dinner at Ricky’s Country Restaurant on Marshall Road with her 20-year old son. She ordered a breakfast meal for dinner – eggs, toast, and bacon. While halfway through the meal, Brien took a bite of toast and started to choke.

It was a scary ordeal because she could not breathe. Her son yelled out for help. Brien was about to pass out, she stood up out of her booth to gain attention. In an instant, her server, Jordan Ketting-Olivier was behind her. He told her that he had first aid training and asked if she can cough it out but she could not.

He proceeded to deliver a blow on her back but she continued to choke. He wrapped his arms around Brien, just beneath the rib cage, and performed the Heimlich maneuver. This life-saving measure was successful in driving the food out.

Edmonton first aid — Prompt delivery of life-saving techniques improves the chances of survival during emergencies.

According to Olivier, he was working at Ricky’s for almost 8 years, but a similar incident occurred 4 months before where he assisted another woman who choked on her food. He recently renewed his first aid certification the day before since he is currently applying to the Abbotsford Police Department.

Importance of first aid training

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and using an automated external defibrillator (AED) can save a life. Prompt delivery of life-saving techniques improves the chances of survival during emergencies.

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