Heimlich Maneuver

On June 5th 2009, my family and I were on our way to New Orleans for a 7 day cruise. At approx. 5:30 pm we stopped in Cape Girardeau, Mo. for a bit to eat, decided on the local Steak & Shake as it is a favorite of ours. Got acquainted with our server, place our order. The restaurant had approx. 30 patrons in eating. While me and my parents were eating, my mother blurted out "Scott" do something I had no idea what she was talking about..as I looked up a man was standing by his table choking with hands to his throat. His wife and daughter were frantic, not knowing what to do. Everybody was just watching in disbelief. I approached the family asked them if I could help, that I knew the Heimlich Maneuver, of course the wife said Please just do something he is choking. Told them who I was that I work for the Mo. Dept. of Corrections, that we have annual certification for CPR/First Aid. While performing the Heimlich Maneuver it took me about 6 times before the piece of foreign matter came up, & the gentleman was able to breath again...at this time his wife and daughter were crying, that they knew this was a close call. I went back to my table finished eating my supper, while letting the man rest and relax. After finishing my meal I approached the family to make sure they were okay, they were very grateful, we shook hands and went our separate ways. While driving I thought to myself I did not even get this mans name...

My main reason for sharing this story is, I never thought it would happen to me...