Champion Doug Fortune Steps In To Rescue Fellow Team Member
Doug Fortune, an information technology middleware engineer, was an actual hero to a fellow team member in need. Penny Boyce, executive assistant, shares the experience from her point of view:
"I was getting ready to start my day here at Baptist with a morning coffee and an apple,” Penny said. "I took a bite of my apple and immediately realized I was having trouble swallowing the piece. I tried to swallow several times but could not. I knew I needed help; I knew Doug was an Eagle Scout, and I knew I needed him quickly.
He was discussing business nearby in the I.T. Help Desk area. I immediately started hitting his arm and pointing to my chest, barely getting the words out ‘Choking!’ and ‘Apple.’ Doug figured out immediately what was happening and started the Heimlich maneuver to try and dislodge whatever piece was blocking my airflow. It worked, and I started breathing easier, but I could still feel something was stuck deep in my esophagus.
I drank something, and I started choking again. Doug started the Heimlich again, and this time, he dislodged the rest of the apple pieces. I immediately started breathing and talking normally. Just like a light switch, from darkness to light, I went from gasping for air to a free flow of air.
Thank you, Doug, for literally coming to my rescue and saving my life. You are my Champion."
Doug, thank you for being so quick to help, Penny! Your continual display of ownership, compassion, excellence and service make you a true Champion and not just in this incident but in several encounters with other team members since you joined Baptist!
This is The Baptist Way and what makes our culture unique. Often our Champions become Legends.
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