Juneau International Airport (JNU) Lead Transportation Security Officer Brenda Irizarry jumped into action to come to the aid of a passenger in distress.
A passenger came to the checkpoint from the departure lounge and told supervisor Jessie Ashton that a woman was choking. Ashton signaled to Irizarry for assistance, and Irizarry immediately rushed to perform the Heimlich Maneuver while Ashton called emergency services.
Irizarry was able to successfully dislodge a grape from the passenger, who has special needs. Thanks to Irizarry’s quick action, the passenger is safe and was able to continue her journey with her family.
Alaska Assistant Federal Security Director (AFSD) Dave McDer
The following is a letter posted by the passenger’s father:
“Brenda’s quick action saved [my daughter] from certain hospitalization while waiting at Alaska Airlines. [My daughter] had swallowed a large grape and was choking; another waiting passenger ran to TSA for help. Brenda, after several attempts using the Heimlich Maneuver, got the grape to pop out to the floor of the terminal. God bless you Brenda, thank you."
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