Life Savers honored at the Geary County Commission meeting

Dewey Terrill

JC Post

( L-R ) Second, third and fourth in line were Tim Himelick, Cayla DaGiao and Clayton Swanson.

The Geary County Commission meeting on Monday provided the backdrop for the recognition of three people who saved the life of Cole Gritton, 20, Manhattan.

Just a few weeks ago while in Milford, Gritton suffered what officials indicated was a heart attack. A 9-1-1 call alerted emergency personnel to the residence where Gritton had been visiting. Milford firefighter Tim Himelick was the first on the scene.

“I ran inside, found the guy laying on the kitchen floor and he had all kinds of fluid coming out of mouth, and he was totally blue. I started CPR on him seemed like forever.

Milford State Park ranger Clayton Swanson and Deputy Cayla DaGiao arrived to apply chest compressions and life saving efforts.

“DaGiao noted it was what she signed up to do in law enforcement. “And I’m just glad that he ‘s still around with his family and stuff.” She noted the take-away from the incident is that the three agencies were able to mesh together to do what they’re supposed to do. “And honestly what the right thing was to save that young man’s life.”

Swanson said he remained calm in this emergency by taking a breath. “That’s what they tell us to do at the Academy in a stressful situation, stand up and take a breath, refocus on what you’re there to do and stop the dying.”

Himelick, DaGiao and Swanson were presented with certificates of commendation from the Sheriff’s Department and applauded for their efforts at the commission meeting.