A Northern Ireland teenager has been hailed for his quick response during a medical emergency at his local park.
Blake Mitchell, from Drumahoe, was out with friends last Thursday, when a young girl was knocked unconscious after falling. She had swallowed her tongue and began to choke, when Blake rushed to her attention.
Not trained in first aid, but having done boxing before, the 14-year-old knew the signs of choking. He put the girl into the recovery position and reached in to free her tongue.
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Speaking to Belfast Live, Blake's mum Lisa said: "When I asked what happened, Blake told me that he just heard a big thump.
"The young girl was being pushed on a zip line and she had fallen off and hit a pole. She had knocked herself out and of course there was a panic.
"Blake isn't trained in first aid but he has done boxing in the past and said he knew what to do. He could hear that the young girl was choking.
"He was able to get her over on to her side, into the recovery position, reached in and got her tongue because she was choking on it.
"Her friends phoned an ambulance and they came for her and they told Blake that what he done really helped. It could have been a very different story.
"We are just so proud. Blake is a very caring person and is very good natured. He would do anything to help anyone."
Michael Allen, Principal of Lisneal College, also praised Blake's response to the situation. Posting on social media of the school community's pride, Blake received well wishes from hundreds, including local politicians.
Mr Allen said: "Last week Blake saved the life of a young girl who had fallen, was knocked unconscious and swallowed her tongue. Incredibly, Blake recognised what was happening, put the girl in recovery and freed her tongue. An absolute legend of a young fella. Oh, and he's only year 10. Proud!"
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