Teen's CPR saves life

WINDERMERE  A Windermere resident collapsed from a serious medical condition during his daily jog Oct. 27 on Lake Butler Boulevard.

Ocoee Fire Rescue personnel who were at the scene told Windermere Police Chief Dave Ogden the man would have died if not for the timely help of his neighbors, led by Julia Strube, 17.

“When she noticed that the subject didn’t have a pulse, was in medical distress, she called 911 and began resuscitative efforts to save his life,” Ogden said.

Strube said she had learned CPR from a class in her sophomore year of high school. Paramedics took over for Strube when they arrived and then delivered the patient to the hospital.

“While the outcome is still critical, the amazing work of Julia has not gone unnoticed by our agency,” Ogden said. “Her actions by performing resuscitative efforts during a difficult, tense and uncertain situation are to be commended. Due to her selfless and quick response, the family can take comfort that every effort was made to save a life with the utmost care and compassion for their loved one. I am proud of the selfless action of Julia, and her parents are, as well.”

Ogden invited Strube and her family to the Nov. 10 Windermere Town Council meeting at Town Hall. He recognized the efforts of Strube, her father, Don — who noticed the fallen man and stopped traffic — and all first responders involved in saving the resident, who has returned home to what should be a full recovery.

“We should all be proud of Windermere residents and employees and the amazing set of first responders that look out for our people each and every single day,” Ogden said. “You are all heroes to us. God bless each and every one of you, and thank you for your service to the town of Windermere.”

Contact Zak Kerr at [email protected].