HEDGESVILLE, W.Va. — A five-year-old boy from Hedgesville recently saved his mom’s life when she suffered a medical emergency.
The Berkeley County Emergency Ambulance Authority was on hand Sunday when Kaysen was honored as part of the Hedgesville Volunteer Fire Department’s open house.
Ambulance Authority Chief Brandon Truman awarded young Kaysen with the Chief’s Citation. This is the highest award given, usually reserved for an emergency responder who goes above and beyond.
Hedgesville Volunteer Fire Department paramedic Jada Parker said the boy rode his scooter to go get help when his mom suffered a medical emergency.
A family member who attended the ceremony thanked the first responders who recognized the youngster, saying, “We are so proud of him in so many ways and truly appreciate your efforts in honoring him.”
A news release from the Berkeley County Commission lauded the actions of Kaysen:
“Kaysen did what you would hope any young child would do when his mother was experiencing a medical emergency.
After all else failed to get help, he got on his scooter and went to a neighbor’s house.
For his heroic actions earlier this year, Kaysen was presented with the Chief’s Citation, a first in the history of the Berkeley County Emergency Ambulance Authority.
When his mother went unconscious in their home, he grabbed his mother’s phone to try and call 911, but couldn’t because the phone was password protected.
After finding their nearest neighbor was not home, Kaysen got on his scooter and rode to another neighbor’s house where he was able to get help and call 911, which led to response by the Ambulance Authority responding to provide care for the patient.
“I’m proud to present the Chief’s Citation to Kaysen for his actions to ensure positive patient outcome,” said Brandon Truman, Chief of Field Operations for the Berkeley County Emergency Ambulance Authority.
“At such a young age, Kaysen acted bravely and exhibited remarkable skill to adapt and adjust amid challenging circumstances. This young man’s efforts are laudable and worthy of commendation.”
A review of the incident prompted the decision to recognize Kaysen.
“There are several skills, including assessment, triage, adaptability and resiliency, that are fundamental to EMS providers and it is particularly impressive that this young man was able to display all of these during this situation.”
Among multiple categories of awards for exemplary action, the Chief’s Citation is the highest award a BCEEA clinician may receive.