Two important things helped Olga save a life. First, being in the right place at just the right time was crucial. Second, having the skills to respond confidently to an opioid emergency.
Photo: Joan Savoie / Canadian Red Cross
Olga works as the receptionist at the Canadian Red Cross in Hamilton. Her day started like any other day until everything changed suddenly. She came across someone showing obvious signs of opioid poisoning, and she did not freeze or fear. Instead, she reached for something stronger: a naloxone kit.
Olga was on her way to work along the service road, where many abandoned warehouses stood quietly. Suddenly, a frightened man flagged her down, and she kindly pulled over to see how she could help. He urgently asked her to call 911 because he didn't have a phone and his friend was experiencing opioid poisoning.
Olga quickly dialed 911, and the operator was able to pinpoint her location. The man asked if she had any naloxone, which she had just picked up from the pharmacy the week before. Without hesitation, she handed the man two kits, and he rushed back to his friend in the warehouse.
After a few minutes, he quickly rushed back with the concerning news that his friend wasn't breathing and was turning blue. The man then told her that they needed to perform CPR.
Unable to perform CPR himself, the man felt a sense of urgency, so Olga jumped into action. She drove over to where his friend was and began performing around 100 compressions until the ambulance arrived. Just before their arrival, the friend began to gurgle, and thankfully, the ambulance team took over CPR and transported him to the hospital.
They responded to the opioid poisoning with calmness and determination, giving someone a second chance at life. This story is about more than just one person's bravery. It shows how naloxone can help communities everywhere.
Being well-prepared can truly make a difference in tough situations. The man survived thanks to Olga's desire to help and use her ability.
Anyone interested in learning how to respond to opioid emergencies can learn skills like Olga did. You are invited to take the First Aid for Opioid Poisoning (FAOP) online course.
These amazing individuals step up during tough times. They could save lives, prevent injuries, and offer comfort to those who need it most. Their impact really shines when it matters most.
Do you know someone who truly deserves this honour? Here’s your chance to celebrate their bravery! Nominate yourself or a remarkable person for a Red Cross Rescuer Award. Let's come together to recognize those who go the extra mile for others!
Photo: Joan Savoie / Canadian Red Cross
Olga works as the receptionist at the Canadian Red Cross in Hamilton. Her day started like any other day until everything changed suddenly. She came across someone showing obvious signs of opioid poisoning, and she did not freeze or fear. Instead, she reached for something stronger: a naloxone kit.
Olga was on her way to work along the service road, where many abandoned warehouses stood quietly. Suddenly, a frightened man flagged her down, and she kindly pulled over to see how she could help. He urgently asked her to call 911 because he didn't have a phone and his friend was experiencing opioid poisoning.
Olga quickly dialed 911, and the operator was able to pinpoint her location. The man asked if she had any naloxone, which she had just picked up from the pharmacy the week before. Without hesitation, she handed the man two kits, and he rushed back to his friend in the warehouse.
After a few minutes, he quickly rushed back with the concerning news that his friend wasn't breathing and was turning blue. The man then told her that they needed to perform CPR.
Unable to perform CPR himself, the man felt a sense of urgency, so Olga jumped into action. She drove over to where his friend was and began performing around 100 compressions until the ambulance arrived. Just before their arrival, the friend began to gurgle, and thankfully, the ambulance team took over CPR and transported him to the hospital.
They responded to the opioid poisoning with calmness and determination, giving someone a second chance at life. This story is about more than just one person's bravery. It shows how naloxone can help communities everywhere.
Being well-prepared can truly make a difference in tough situations. The man survived thanks to Olga's desire to help and use her ability.
Anyone interested in learning how to respond to opioid emergencies can learn skills like Olga did. You are invited to take the First Aid for Opioid Poisoning (FAOP) online course.
Recognizing Heroes: The Rescuer Award
The Canadian Red Cross Rescuer Award shines a spotlight on the incredible contributions of everyday heroes. These heroes include those who rescue without a professional rescuers title and off-duty first responders.These amazing individuals step up during tough times. They could save lives, prevent injuries, and offer comfort to those who need it most. Their impact really shines when it matters most.
Do you know someone who truly deserves this honour? Here’s your chance to celebrate their bravery! Nominate yourself or a remarkable person for a Red Cross Rescuer Award. Let's come together to recognize those who go the extra mile for others!
