Teen Honored for Helping Save Choking Student While on School Bus

DELHI, N.Y. — A 14-year-old student here was recognized by the state Senate on Thursday for her heroic efforts in helping save another student who was choking while on the school bus earlier this year.

As previously reported, Rachel Trimbell successfully performed the Heimlich maneuver on first grader Danielle Miller, who was choking on a piece of candy while she was on a Walton Central School District bus. Trimbell, who is certified in CPR and first aid, said she thought it was about the fifth try when the candy became dislodged and everything seemed to be back to normal.

During a ceremony at the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, Sen. Jen Metzger presented Trimbell with the New York State Senate Liberty Medal for her quick response in saving Miller, according to a news release from Metzger’s office. Trimbell’s family and Sheriff Craig DuMond were also in attendance.

“Rachel Trimbell’s swift and courageous actions were nothing short of heroic,” Metzger said. “Her willingness to take charge in this frightening emergency situation and make use of her first aid knowledge is truly worthy of this important recognition."

The Liberty Medal is the highest civilian honor that a state resident can receive and is awarded to individuals for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers, according to Metzger’s office.

In addition to the Liberty Medal, Trimbell is the first ever recipient of the Super Star Award, which was presented to her on behalf of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office in May, according to Metzger’s office.