November 18, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 184 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session

[Page H8913]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  PAYING TRIBUTE TO A GROUP OF HEROES

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
California (Mr. Calvert) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a 
group of heroes who went above and beyond to save the life of one of my 
district office staff. It is important to note that my district office 
is located at the Corona City Hall, a detail that was vital in the 
events that transpired.
  On November 4, 2019, at 1:50 p.m., a member of my staff experienced a 
medical event that required immediate attention. Jackie Lansing noticed 
the event and brought it to the attention of the other district staff, 
who responded quickly and calmly.
  While Jackie provided immediate assistance to the staffer, Kathleen 
McGravan called 911. Danielle Shade hurried to a number of offices in 
city hall to find on-site medical personal. At the same time, Shawna 
Rimke directed our intern, Noah Ritter, who had previously received CPR 
training, to administer chest compressions.
  Shawna then ran to retrieve Cari Lee Smith, a volunteer at city hall 
who Shawna knew was also a Corona Fire Department volunteer. Cari 
assisted Noah in CPR compressions but quickly realized that she needed 
a defibrillator. She sprinted off to secure one of city hall's AEDs.
  While this was taking place, Ryan Cortez, a Corona city employee and 
an off-duty EMT, was in a meeting with the City Manager's Office when 
he received an alert on the PulsePoint Respond app. This app notifies 
certified personnel of a medical emergency near them.
  While Ryan rushed downstairs to respond, Cari and Noah administered 
the first AED shock. Upon revival, Ryan administered the second AED 
shock, which stabilized the staff member.
  At 1:56 p.m. the firemen arrived. Ryan was able to explain to the 
firemen exactly what transpired as well as brief them on the AED 
readings.
  I am very grateful to say that this member of my staff, who has been 
a dedicated and instrumental part of my team for many years, is 
recovering and doing well.
  That day may have ended very differently if not for the quick actions 
of my staff and the lifesaving techniques administered by Noah Ritter, 
Cari Lee Smith, and Ryan Cortez. To those three individuals, the entire 
Calvert team sends their heartfelt gratitude.

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