Keystone RV Plant 31 Final Group Leader Eddie Sanchez was recently recognized with the “Outstanding Service Award,” for saving the life of a fellow employee.
At around 7:20 a.m. on May 7, Sanchez jumped into action when he heard screams and panicked shouts. Not far from Sanchez, fellow employee Marlene Gingerich was choking and struggling to breathe. After taking several sessions of Keystone’s First Responder’s Program in the past, Sanchez knew exactly what to do. Calm and collected, he performed the Heimlich maneuver several times until Gingerich’s airway was clear of the obstruction.
“Although I’ve gone through the training at least five different times, nothing can truly prepare you for something like that,” said Sanchez. “It’s one of those things you automatically react to. All I have to say is, it’s extremely important to take classes like that very seriously. You never know when you’ll need to use those skills.”
Keystone’s First Responder Program is an annual class, free to employees, that is run by a certified member of the American Heart Association. After completing classes in First Aid and CPR, employees are recognized by the AHA as a certified first responder.
Keystone RV President and CEO Jeff Runels visited the plant to honor Sanchez, presenting him with the “Outstanding Service Award” for his “life-saving selfless act for a fellow employee.”
“We recognize many things here at Keystone, but when we come a across a situation like this, it is a very big deal,” said Runels. “It’s important that we take the time to recognize the people that make a difference, in this company.”
