Local Hero Saved Mother’s Life, Recognized by Emergency Personnel

LOCK HAVEN – When Oliver, also known as Ollie, realized that his mom was in serious trouble, he knew right what to do – go find an adult for help.

“Gena, Ollie’s Mom, works at District Magistrate 2 for Heidi Wright, said Jonathan Plessinger, Clinton County Director of Emergency Services, at an impromptu recognition ceremony outside of the Piper Government Building Wednesday night.

“He was home with his mom and she was actually in the bath, didn’t come out for a while, and Oliver went to check on her when she was found unresponsive. He went to a neighbor’s house at his father’s request, brought the neighbor over, and they then called 911 as she had a stroke. With Ollie and his neighbor calling 911 is exactly why she is standing here today, they saved her life.”

Magisterial District Judge Heidi Wright spoke to the crowd, reading a prepared statement for the event.

“Gena has experienced some unfortunate health concerns in the last couple of months, and on Saturday, November 9 something drastically changed. Oliver, most people call him Ollie, found his mom, Gena, unresponsive in the bathroom. Right away Ollie knew that something was wrong with his mom and he sprang into action. Ollie’s father, Steve, was out of town, so Ollie’s first reaction was to call his dad. His dad advised him to either go right next door to the EMS building, or to the neighbor’s house who he is familiar with, “Mr. Jim,” Heidi said.

It was with Mr. Jim that Ollie and he called 911 and EMS arrived on the scene, where Ollie was able to help personnel with some of Gena’s basic demographic information.

“Ollie is nine years old, and what most of you may not realize about Ollie is that he is diagnosed with autism. When Gena first learned about some health issues, and with Steve working overnights, Gena and Steve had numerous conversations with Ollie to ensure he knew what to do in the event he needed help and Steve was not around. So Ollie, we are all here today to tell you how proud we are of you! Without your knowledge of knowing what to do in this emergency situation, there absolutely could have been a different outcome today. You played a vital role in saving your Mom’s life – WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!”

It was then that emergency personnel presented Ollie with gifts for his bravery and awards.

“All of the people who were involved in this, from dispatch to EMS, are here tonight,” Plessinger said.

Ollie was presented with a giant stuffed dinosaur, toys, a drone, and other treats and gifts.

“Thank you, Mr. Jim and Ms. Lisa, their wonderful neighbors for stepping in and helping out in a time of crisis. Thank you to all of the EMS personnel and first responders that serve our wonderful community, and thank you for coming together tonight and being here tonight to recognize Ollie. Gena, we love you and we’re so thankful that you’re here with us today. We know that some challenges lie ahead of you, but we are here to support you and pray for you every step of the way. Tonight’s ceremony wouldn’t be complete without a special thank you to Station 21 for responding so quickly that day,” Wright’s statement ended.

“We thank Ollie for recognizing that his mother was having a medical emergency, that was definitely a huge help in the chain of survival for her,” an EMS person said.

Plessinger then commended Oliver on going to the neighbor, getting help for his mom. The biggest part of this is not only appreciating and recognizing him, but it is also a good opportunity for the young people in our county to know that 911 is only a phone call away. Minutes do count when it comes to a stroke.

“If you want a job when you’re 18, come see me,” Plessinger said.

Ollie, a boy of few words, felt “good and glad that he helped his mom.” He wants people to know that they “should always do the right thing, and ask for help when you need it.”

Brad McCloskey of Robb Elementary School was also present expressing how proud he is of Ollie.

“We’re so proud of him, he’s an awesome kid and seeing all these first responders here tonight is what he’s all about – he loves the sirens and lights and to be a hero himself is awesome, we are all so proud of him,” McCloskey said. “It’s a good message to all the kids: anyone can help, no matter what your age is.”

Ollie was seen moments after the ceremony took place taking in the sights of snowflakes and doing what kids do best: enjoying life.

Clinton County is proud of you, Ollie.