Trooper Reginald Mathieu works to save a choking baby on a Miami highway, October 16, 2021. Courtesy, Florida Highway Patrol, Miami
In October, a heroic Florida State Trooper named Reginald Mathieu saved the life of a 1-year-old baby girl on the side of a bustling I-95 highway just outside of Miami.
Trooper Mathieu was writing a ticket at a crash site when the little girl’s parents flagged him down. On the side of the road, the parents stood around the unconscious toddler who, after having choked on a pancake, began turning blue. At this point, a passerby had already tried to use an anti-choking device on the child, but to no avail. Dash-cam footage from Mathieu’s vehicle showed his first aid training kick into high gear as he jumped into action, successfully executing a sequence of back blows until the child regained consciousness. She was taken to the hospital immediately as a safety precaution.
The baby girl’s father took to Instagram to recount the harrowing experience, writing: “There’s no greater scare than the potential of losing your child. I hope no one ever has to go through it because it’s traumatic…” You can watch the dash-cam video here.
As we reflect on our blessings during this holiday season, we may remember how easy it is to overlook the individuals who help protect the things we hold most dear. We give thanks to Trooper Reginald Mathieu for his training and simple act of duty, and to all those who keep our loved ones safe. Where we can and when we can, we hope to recognize those who do for others. Let’s use their inspiration to pass that same spirit along – for the holidays and beyond.
See you on the trail & right back here on January 3!
Lisa
LMA Newsletter of 12-13-21
