A Durham School Services driver in McKinney, Texas, recently saved the life of a special-needs student who had stopped breathing on her bus.
Linda Wilson performed CPR until the child began breathing again. Paramedics transported the Evans Middle School student to McKinney Medical Center, where she recovered from the incident.
“After 911 was called, Linda knew that every minute counted and started using CPR while waiting for the emergency response team,” McKinney facility General Manager Pete Chancellor said. “She knew what to do and didn’t waste any time doing it.”
Wilson was recognized by the McKinney Independent School District Board of Education at a meeting on May 28 for resuscitating the student.
Wilson, a Durham driver for the past seven years, reportedly received a certificate from the school board and standing ovation from everyone in attendance for her life-saving actions.
She was also recognized by Durham supervisors at the company’s monthly safety meeting in McKinney.
“Linda is a true professional who cares so deeply for the students she serves,” Chancellor said. “She acted quickly and is a big reason that student is alive today.”
In other news, Durham will sponsor and employees will participate in the Eighth Annual Windy City Rubber Ducky Derby, which is a fundraiser that benefits Special Olympics Illinois.
The race will take place on Aug. 8 from the Columbus Drive Bridge over the Chicago River. Thousands of spectators will watch more than 45,000 yellow rubber ducks splash into the river and race to the finish line.
“We have formed a corporate sales team every year of the event to accumulate as many duck adoptions as we can,” said Kimberly Isley-Pesto, who leads the Durham team. “We’re not only seeking the involvement of our employees, but contributions from our families, friends and others.”
Officials said Durham has been the top corporate sales team in three of the seven years of the event, peaking in 2010 with 2,456 duck adoptions. All proceeds benefit more than 21,000 Special Olympics athletes in Illinois.
“It’s a special feeling to know we’re playing a role in transforming lives across the state,” Isley-Pesto said. “Special Olympics Illinois is a wonderful organization to partner with, and everyone is looking forward to another exciting event in downtown Chicago this year.”
For additional event information, visit www.duckrace.com/chicago.
