Medical Professionals Honored For Saving Child

Several months ago, a middle school student went into cardiac arrest in the middle of soccer practice.  It just so happened, three medical professionals were exercising nearby. Saturday, those heroes were honored.

The girl's name is Faith and medical professionals are calling her a miracle. The incident happened in January.  Officials say, Faith is one of the few children ever known to survive cardiac arrest.

"I just can't thank them enough. There are no words that can describe how grateful I am they saved my daughter," said Cathy Fullington.  Her daughter, 13-year-old Faith Sendelweck was practicing soccer in Jasper High School's gymnasium when she suddenly collapsed.  "I don't remember anything I just woke up in the hospital," said Faith.  What she doesn't remember is who saved her life.  A nurse and respiratory therapist were in the gym working out nearby.  They couldn't find a pulse and immediately started CPR. "Her head was just dangling down like a rag doll," said Vickie Beckman a nurse. It just so happens, Vickie's husband is a doctor and was also in the gym.

"What's unusual about this is children usually do not have this problem. When we put the device on her it read that she needed to be shocked,” said Dr. Dean Beckman.  Faith's heart stopped beating for about five minutes.  If it wasn't for CPR she could have suffered brain damage.  If it wasn't for Dr. Beckman she could have died.

"I don't believe in coincidences I definitely think God has big plans for Faith,” said Vickie Beckman.  The individuals who saved Faith's life were given plaques recognizing their heroism. 

Cathy says the three medical professionals didn't just happen to be at the right place at the right time, they were put there.  She believes as Faith grows the world will become a better place.

Faith is no longer able to play sports but she is spreading the word about the importance of defibrillators in schools.  It turns out, Faith has a rare heart disorder and now has a pacemaker which will shock her heart if it gets out of rhythm.