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Police Explorer's Quick Action Helped Save Ref's Life

Lindsey Paradise, a member of the Fridley Police Exploring program, was attending a Fridley basketball game with family and friend when the training she had learned at school and through the Police Exploring program was called into action.  With about five minutes left n the game, 49-year-old referee, Dale Wakasugi, collapsed to the ground.

Without hesitation, Lindsey quickly rand down the gym floor.  After assessing the situation and checking for a pulse, she realized that CPR was necessary was necessary.  Remembering the CPR breathing mask in her purse, Lindsey ran back to her seat, grabbed it.  Then, she and two parents, who are nurses, performed CPR.  Unfortunately, after fours rounds, Wakasugi still had no pulse.  Lindsey then ordered a spectator to get the automated external defibrillator and ultimately administered the shock that restated his heart.  "I saw his chest going up and down," Lindsey said.  "we were talking to him, saying, 'Keep breathing, Dale,' and we were trying to comfort him."  By the time rescue personnel took over Wakasugi was conscious, sitting up and talking.  EMT Renee Homdorf, one of the first on the scene, said Lindsey's quick actions saved his life. 

Wakasugi was sent to Mercy Hospital were he underwent surgery to repair a blocked artery.  He is now home with his family, grateful to Lindsey for her quick thinking and ability to stay calm while operating the defibrillator.

"I was just glad I was able to help and he is home and doing well.  It wasn't just me.  I had help from other parents and the school trainer.  I am just overly joyed that he was home for the holidays and he is doing good."

Lindsey plans to continue her training with the Fridley Police Exploring program and would like to eventually become a police officer.

Story from the Navigator Volume 4, Number 3, March 2008

 

 

 

 

 

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