Spartanburg Teen Saves Father’s Life with Quick Thinking

News Summary

In a remarkable act of bravery, 14-year-old Amir Harris from Spartanburg saved his father, Keith Sortor, during a severe allergic reaction. While his mother called 911, Amir, with no formal CPR training, performed chest compressions and rescue breaths, keeping his father alive until help arrived. Recently honored by the Spartanburg City Council, Amir’s actions highlight the importance of CPR training, inspiring the community to learn these vital skills. His story serves as a reminder of the power individuals hold in emergencies and the incredible bond between father and son.

Spartanburg Teen Awarded for Life-Saving Actions During His Father’s Crisis

In a heartwarming tale that could easily come straight from the pages of a movie script, 14-year-old Amir Harris of Spartanburg is being celebrated for his quick thinking during a life-or-death situation. His actions last January saved his father, Keith Sortor, who experienced a severe allergic reaction to a blood pressure medication.

The Critical Moment

The drama unfolded when Keith Sortor suddenly reacted to the medication. With his health deteriorating rapidly, Amir stepped up just when most teens would have been frozen in fear. While his mother, Ramona Sortor, frantically dialed 911, Amir took charge of the situation without ever having had official CPR training. His instincts kicked in, and he moved swiftly to perform chest compressions and deliver rescue breaths to his father.

It’s truly remarkable how he managed to stay calm and focus on his dad in such a stressful moment. Amir’s swift response was a turning point that helped sustain Keith’s life until the paramedics could arrive on the scene.

A Father’s Gratitude

Once Keith Sortor received medical attention, he learned from the hospital staff just how crucial Amir’s actions had been. The gratitude and relief he felt for his son’s heroics only deepened the unbreakable bond between father and son. The family spent some tearful moments together following the incident, a testament to the strength of their relationship and the gravity of what Amir had achieved that day.

A Hero’s Recognition

The Importance of CPR Training

Looking Ahead

A Message to the Community

CPR training can empower ordinary people to take extraordinary actions. The potential to save a life lies within us, and Amir’s act of heroism is clear evidence of that. The community is encouraged to embrace this opportunity to learn these essential skills. Whether it’s a neighbor, friend, or family member, anyone could find themselves in a situation where quick thinking and knowledge of CPR can change the outcome.

So why not take Amir’s story to heart? Let it inspire you to learn CPR and be ready! After all, emergencies can happen when we least expect them.

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Additional Resources

• GoUpstate
• WJBF News
• Fox Carolina
• WSPA
• WYFF4 News
• Wikipedia: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
• Google Search: CPR training
• Google Scholar: CPR importance
• Encyclopedia Britannica: CPR
• Google News: Spartanburg emergency response