GPHS student recognized for lifesaving actions

When a woman choked and went unconscious at a local restaurant in February, a Grants Pass High School tenth grader stepped in to save her life.

Michael Holt was only a week into his CPR unit in the Emergency Care class at GPHS at the time, but when the woman did not have a pulse, Michael knew he needed to take quick action. Michael began CPR as others called 9-1-1, and he was able to resuscitate the woman by the time first responders arrived. She is said to be doing well today.

Grants Pass Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Wayne Nelson says the survival rate from cardiac arrest drops by 10% for every minute that a patient has to wait for CPR.

On Tuesday, March 14, 2023, Michael was recognized during the regular meeting of the Grants Pass School District Board of Education where he received a standing ovation. He was presented with an “Everyday Hero Award” and a “Life-Saving Award” from Grants Pass Kiwanis and Grants Pass Fire Rescue, as well as challenge coins from each organization.

We are proud of the action Michael took, and the learning he put into practice to help save a woman’s life. Well done!