Calvin Swimmers Use CPR Training To Save Life At Airport
A group of Calvin University swim team members recently embarked on a two-week mission trip to Thailand, where they taught English, water survival skills, and CPR to local students.
The trip was organized in partnership with the Paladin Rescue Alliance, an organization dedicated to rescuing individuals from human trafficking situations.
Led by head swim coach Dan Gelderloos, the team of 14 swimmers worked with students from kindergarten to ninth grade in the village of Mae Taeng, Northern Thailand.
Using a portable pool provided by the Paladin Rescue Alliance, the Calvin swimmers focused on teaching basic swimming skills, emphasizing flotation and survival techniques.
The mission focused on addressing the high drowning rates in the area, which is made worse by the rainy season and frequent flooding.
In addition to swimming lessons, the team also provided English and cooking lessons, CPR training, and education on human trafficking prevention.
The trip wasn't just about working, their was also some play involved too.
The trip concluded with three days of sightseeing, including visits to an elephant park and the picturesque city of Chiang Mai.
During their trip home at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport while waiting in line for customs, team members Nathan Kaestner and Ryan Halberg heard a call for medical assistance.
They quickly responded, administering CPR to an unconscious man until paramedics arrived.
Their quick response helped save the man's life.
Reflecting on the experience, Kaestner and Halberg expressed gratitude for their training and the opportunity to make a difference both in Thailand and at home.
30 Famous Celebrities You Might Not Know Are From Michigan
Gallery Credit: Big Joe Pesh / Getty Images