This afternoon, a local hero was recognized for rushing to the aid of a citizen in cardiac arrest, starting CPR, and calling emergency services. These actions set off a series of events that would ultimately save the life of a total stranger.
On the evening of January 19, 2024, at 6:29 PM, Alyssa Enevold was walking with her friends in the 100 block of East Cherry Street in Normal, IL. Suddenly, Alyssa suffered a severe cardiac event, collapsing and losing consciousness. Her friends quickly realized she was not breathing and immediately called for help.
At that exact moment, Anthony Michalski was leaving a friend’s apartment nearby and noticed Alyssa on the ground. Recognizing the emergency, Anthony rushed over without hesitation. Using his training as a certified lifeguard and a member of the United States military, he immediately began CPR. He continued these life-saving measures until the Normal Fire Department arrived and took over Alyssa’s care. Alyssa was not breathing and had no pulse when the NFD arrived. During transport, she was defibrillated by NFD medics, which restored her heart to a normal rhythm.
Alyssa was transported to Carle BroMenn Hospital in Normal, IL, where the Carle staff continued to stabilize her with fluids and medications and worked to identify the cause of her cardiac arrest. Due to the quick actions of Anthony and EMS, the emergency department staff were able to stabilize Alyssa and transfer her to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
In this moment of crisis, Anthony demonstrated remarkable skill, courage, and compassion, making a profound difference in the life of a complete stranger. His actions were performed without hesitation and were exactly what was needed at that time and place.
It cannot be overstated enough: immediate CPR in the presence of a lethal cardiac rhythm can be lifesaving!
For his actions, Anthony Michalski was presented with the Lifesaving Award by the Normal Police and Fire Departments at a ceremony at Normal Fire Department Headquarters this afternoon. Presenting him with the award, was Alyssa.
