HONOLULU (KHON2) — On Jan.18, 71-year-old Glenn Yamada experienced a medical emergency while at his office on Kamakee Street.
His colleagues sprang into action, performing CPR and utilizing an AED to shock him back to life.
Not even a week later, Honolulu Emergency Medical Services honored the Hawaii Gas employees for their quick actions in saving the life of a co-worker who suffered a cardiac arrest.
This ceremony coincides with the conclusion of National EMS Week, underscoring the importance of CPR training and having automated external defibrillators (AEDs) readily available.
Zoe Williams, Environmental Health & Safety Manager, praised the team’s swift response, emphasizing their CPR training and ability to remain calm under pressure.
This was truly a team effort from individuals who came together and took instant action to provide aid. They had the necessary CPR training, they instinctively stayed calm, and by working quickly together saved Glenn’s life
Zoe Williams
Honolulu EMS and Fire Department personnel provided further assistance, stabilizing Mr. Yamada before transporting him to the hospital.
Alicia Moy, President and CEO of Hawaii Gas, commended the employees for their courage and knowledge of emergency procedures, presenting them with the Excellence in Safety Award. Their actions, aided by the strategically placed AED, played a critical role in Mr. Yamada’s survival.
We were incredibly proud to give this year’s Excellence in Safety Award to a group of employees who rendered immediate aid to a fellow employee during a medical emergency. Their lack of hesitation, clear thinking, and knowledge of emergency procedures made all the difference. They are true heroes, and well deserving of our company’s highest safety achievement.
Alicia Moy, President and CEO
Marlon Cezar, a responding paramedic, praised the employees’ bravery and quick thinking, highlighting their pivotal role in keeping their colleague alive.
The ceremony also marked a special reunion between Mr. Yamada and the EMS crew who helped save his life, a rare occurrence for these medical professionals.