INDIANAPOLIS – The American Red Cross honors Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation lifeguard Matthew Selear with the organization’s Lifesaving Award at the Cardiac Arrest Survival virtual summit held in San Diego on Dec. 8 for using his Red Cross training to save a man’s life.
It is one of the highest awards given to an individual or team of individuals who saves or sustains life by using skills and knowledge learned in a Red Cross Training Services course.
In September, Matthew was on lifeguard duty at the Monon Community Center when he was alerted to a man who fell unconscious on the basketball courts. He was relieved from his post and rushed to assess the gentleman’s condition. The patron was not breathing and lacking a pulse. Matthew immediately began chest compressions, provided automated external defibrillator (AED) support, and continued rounds of CPR until the man regained consciousness. He would continue to provide care until emergency personnel arrived.
“We are honored to recognize Matthew’s heroic actions and his commitment to keeping our community safe,” said Chad Priest, CEO of American Red Cross – Indiana Region. “We need more people like Matthew who are trained and ready to act.”
Take a Class
Take a First Aid and CPR Course online to learn what to do in case emergency help is delayed. A variety of online, blended (online and in-person skills sessions), and classroom courses are also available. To learn more and get started, visit redcross.org/takeaclass.
Nominate Someone
People can go to LifesavingAwards.org to nominate and recognize an individual or group of individuals who have used the skills and knowledge learned in an American Red Cross Training Services course to help save or sustain life.
