The American Heart Association recently recognized eight Plainsboro heroes for helping to save the life of a West Windsor-Plainsboro High School North student who fell victim to sudden cardiac arrest during physical education class this past October.
Principal Michael Zapicchi, physical education teachers Trevor Warner and Tammy Petrocelli, school nurse Patricia Walsh, R.N., along with Chief Richard Furda, Patrolman Martin McElrath, and emergency medical technicians Austin Fountain and Brian Barbarise were recognized for their preparedness, quick response, and appropriate action to save the student’s life. (The student has not been identified).
As the student collapsed during gym class Warner and Petrocelli initiated the school’s medical emergency response plan — Warner immediately began CPR while Petrocelli radioed for help and Walsh called emergency services. First responder McElrath arrived within minutes, quickly followed by Fountain and Barbarise who used an AED (automatic external defibrillator) to help save the student’s life.
